How to Get Your Florida Learner's Permit (FLHSMV Guide)
Everything you need to apply for a Class E Learner's License through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) — the age requirement, documents to bring, the knowledge test, fees, and what comes next.
Requirements & minimum age
To get a Class E Learner's License in Florida, you must be at least 15 and apply in person at the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). Applicants under 18 generally need a parent or guardian to sign, and many states also require enrollment in or completion of a driver-education course.
Florida's Class E learner's permit exam tests road rules, signs, and safe-driving knowledge from the Florida Driver License Handbook. New drivers must also complete the Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course.
Documents to bring to the FLHSMV
Bring original or certified documents (not photocopies) that establish:
- Proof of identity, such as a certified U.S. birth certificate or valid passport (name-change documents required if your name differs)
- Proof of Social Security number, such as your Social Security card, W-2, or paystub showing the full SSN
- Two documents proving your Florida residential address (for example a utility bill and a bank statement); a minor may use a parent's or guardian's proofs
- Completion certificate for the state-approved driver education course (first-time drivers under 18 must complete this course; the Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education/TLSAE requirement was expanded to a full driver education course as of August 1, 2025)
- Notarized Parental Consent Form (HSMV 71142) if you are under 18 and the parent or guardian does not appear in person to sign
- Proof of passing the Class E Knowledge Exam (a notarized Parent Proctoring Form is also required for minors who take the exam online)
The knowledge test
In Florida, the knowledge test can be taken online (as well as in person). The Class E Knowledge Exam is a 50-question multiple-choice test on traffic laws, safe driving, and road signs, and you must answer at least 40 correctly (80 percent) to pass.
Rehearse with our free Florida practice test — 25 random questions with instant explanations.
Start the Florida Practice Test →Fees
The FLHSMV charges $48 for the Class E license, plus a $6.25 service fee at tax collector offices for the permit. Amounts can change and sometimes include separate knowledge-test or service fees, so verify the current cost with the FLHSMV before you visit.
What happens after you pass (graduated licensing)
Applicants under 18 must hold the learner's license for at least 12 months (or until age 18) and log 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 at night. Learner's license holders may drive only during daylight hours for the first three months and until 10 p.m. after that, always accompanied by a licensed driver at least 21 years old in the front passenger seat.
Florida permit FAQ
How many questions is the Florida permit test?
The FLHSMV knowledge test has about 50 questions, and you need 40 of 50 (80%) to pass. Our free practice test uses a random set of 25 questions so you can rehearse before the real thing.
Can you take the Florida permit test online?
In Florida, the knowledge test can be taken online (as well as in person). The Class E Knowledge Exam is a 50-question multiple-choice test on traffic laws, safe driving, and road signs, and you must answer at least 40 correctly (80 percent) to pass.
What do I need to bring to the FLHSMV?
Bring documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and Florida residency, plus anything required for a Class E Learner's License. Applicants under 18 also need parental or guardian consent. See the full checklist above.
How old do you have to be to get a Florida permit?
You can apply for a Class E Learner's License at 15 in Florida, provided you meet the FLHSMV's other requirements.
How much does a Florida permit cost?
The FLHSMV charges $48 for the Class E license, plus a $6.25 service fee at tax collector offices for the permit. Fees can change and may include separate testing or service charges, so confirm the current amount with the FLHSMV.
What happens if I fail the Florida permit test?
If you fail the Class E Knowledge Exam you may retake it, but a re-exam fee (about $10) is charged at your next attempt. At a service center you generally must wait until the next business day to retest.
Official sources: www.flhsmv.gov · www.flhsmv.gov · www.flhsmv.gov