Florida's age requirements for a driver's license
Florida allows you to get a learner's permit at age 15, a restricted license at 16, and an unrestricted license at 18. The age you can start depends on which type of credential you want and what driving privileges you need right away.
If you are under 18, you must hold a learner's permit for a minimum of three months and one week before you can move to a restricted license. You cannot skip this step — Florida law requires the waiting period regardless of how quickly you pass the driving test.
Key Takeaways
- A learner's permit in Florida is available at age 15 and requires a three-month-and-one-week holding period before you can get a restricted license.
- A restricted license at age 16 lets you drive unsupervised during the day but requires a licensed adult in the car after 11 p.m. until you turn 17.
- An unrestricted license at age 18 removes all time-of-day restrictions and adult supervision requirements.
- You must pass a written test, vision screening, and driving test to move from one license type to the next.
Getting a learner's permit at 15
To get a learner's permit in Florida, you must be at least 15 years old. You will need to pass a written knowledge test covering road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. The test is offered at your county's Department of Motor Vehicles office.
You also need a valid form of identification, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. Bring documents like a birth certificate, passport, or school ID along with a utility bill or lease agreement showing your Florida address. The written test costs a fee that varies by county but is typically under $10.
Once you hold a learner's permit, you can drive only with a licensed adult age 21 or older in the front passenger seat. You cannot drive alone, and you must follow all traffic laws. Violations while on a learner's permit can delay your move to a restricted license.
Restricted license at 16
After holding your learner's permit for at least three months and one week, you can take the driving test and move to a restricted license at age 16. This test includes both a written portion and a behind-the-wheel driving evaluation at your local DMV office.
A restricted license removes the requirement for an adult in the car during daytime hours. You can drive alone between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. However, after 11 p.m., you must have a licensed adult age 21 or older in the front passenger seat. These restrictions stay in place until you turn 17 or until you hold an unrestricted license.
You also cannot use a cell phone while driving on a restricted license, even hands-free, except in a genuine emergency. Violating this rule or the time-of-day restrictions can result in fines and suspension of your driving privileges.
Unrestricted license at 18
At age 18, you can obtain an unrestricted license with no time-of-day driving limits and no requirement for an adult passenger. You still must follow all traffic laws and cannot use a handheld cell phone while driving.
If you already hold a restricted license when you turn 18, you do not need to take another driving test. You can renew or upgrade your license at any DMV office. If you are 18 and have never held a Florida license, you must still pass the written test and driving test to get your first unrestricted license.
Documents you need for each step
| License Type | Age | Documents Needed | Tests Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Learner's Permit | 15 | Birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, proof of Florida residency | Written knowledge test |
| Restricted License | 16 | Current learner's permit, proof of three months and one week holding period | Written test, driving test |
| Unrestricted License | 18 | Current restricted license or learner's permit | None if upgrading from restricted; written and driving tests if first-time applicant |
Fees and processing time
Florida charges separate fees for each license type. A learner's permit costs around $7 to $10 depending on your county. A restricted license costs approximately $48, and an unrestricted license costs roughly $48 as well. These fees cover the license itself and do not include the cost of the driving test, which is administered by a third-party testing vendor and typically costs $15 to $20.
Processing time at the DMV varies by location and how busy the office is. Most people can complete the written test and vision screening in one visit. The driving test may be scheduled for the same day or a later date depending on availability. Bring all required documents to avoid delays.
What happens if you turn 18 with a restricted license
If you turn 18 while holding a restricted license, the time-of-day restrictions and adult supervision requirements automatically end. You do not need to visit the DMV or take another test. Your restricted license becomes functionally unrestricted at midnight on your 18th birthday.
However, your license card itself will still show the restricted designation until you renew it. You can renew early at any DMV office if you want the card to reflect your unrestricted status, though this is not required to drive without restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a learner's permit before age 15?
No. Florida law sets 15 as the minimum age for a learner's permit. You cannot obtain one earlier, and there are no exceptions for homeschooled students or other circumstances.
What if I fail the driving test for a restricted license?
You can retake the driving test, but you must wait at least one business day between attempts. You can take it as many times as needed. Each retake has a separate fee. You remain on your learner's permit until you pass.
Do I need to renew my license when I turn 18?
No. Your restricted license is valid until its expiration date. You can continue using it after you turn 18 without renewal. If you want the card to show unrestricted status, you can renew early at your county DMV office.
Can I drive out of state on a Florida learner's permit?
No. A Florida learner's permit is only valid in Florida. If you travel out of state, you cannot drive, even with an adult in the car. You must wait until you have a restricted or unrestricted license.
What are the penalties for violating restricted license rules?
Driving after 11 p.m. without an adult, driving alone when prohibited, or using a cell phone on a restricted license can result in fines, points on your driving record, and suspension of your license. A second violation within five years can lead to a 30-day suspension.