Starting July 1, 2025, a new Florida law will change how first-time drivers under 18 years old obtain their learner’s permit—and it places a stronger emphasis on education and awareness. If you’re a teen (or a parent of one) planning to start the driving process next year, here’s what you need to know.
What’s changing?
To improve road safety and ensure teens understand the risks and responsibilities of driving, Florida will now require first-time drivers under the age of 18 to complete a specialized course before applying for a learner’s license. This course, which must be approved by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), focuses specifically on the dangers of impaired and distracted driving.
While Florida has long required a Drug and Alcohol Traffic Awareness (DATA) course for first-time drivers, this new law adds a second, more targeted requirement for minors.
Who does this apply to?
This law affects anyone under 18 who applies for a learner’s permit on or after July 1, 2025. To be clear, this course is in addition to the existing DATA course—not a replacement.
Minors must also still provide:
What will the new course cover?
The course aims to educate young drivers on real-world risks they’re most likely to encounter behind the wheel. Topics include:
With traffic crashes remaining a leading cause of death among teens in Florida, this law is designed to encourage safer habits early on.
Why it matters
According to Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, teens are overrepresented in fatal crashes, often due to inexperience, distraction, or impaired judgment. By requiring more robust education before teens get behind the wheel, lawmakers hope to reduce preventable tragedies.
Parents also play a key role. With this new requirement, they have an opportunity to discuss responsible driving and reinforce what their teens are learning in the course.
What teens and parents should do now
If you or your teen will be turning 15 or 16 in the second half of 2025, plan ahead:
