Florida TLSAE Course: Everything You Need to Know to Get Your Learner’s Permit

TL;DR: If you're a first-time driver in Florida, the state requires you to complete a 4-hour Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course before applying for your learner’s license. This guide breaks down the process—from choosing your course format to booking your permit test.

Starting Out: Feeling Overwhelmed? You’re Not Alone

Getting your learner’s license is a major step—but it doesn’t have to be confusing. We’re here to guide you through the exact process every Florida teen follows, starting with the TLSAE course. Whether you’re feeling ready or still unsure, we’ll help you navigate it with confidence.

What is the TLSAE Course?

🚨 Heads-Up: Big Changes Starting July 1
Florida is transitioning from the TLSAE course to a new requirement called DETS (Drug and Alcohol Traffic Education). During July, you can take either course to get your learner’s permit. Just make sure you complete one approved course by July 31 if you're under 18, so you stay on track. 👉 Learn more about DETS and what it means for youTrending Getting Your Florida Learners Permit What Know About Dets Program Driversed.com

The Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course is a 4-hour class that every new Florida driver must complete before getting their learner’s permit. It's required by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV)Education Courses Driver Improvement Schools Traffic Law Substance Abuse Education Tlsae Find Approved Listing Tlsae Course Providers Driver Licenses Id Cards.

You’re eligible if:

• You’re at least 14½ years old

• You’ve never had a driver’s license in any U.S. state or foreign country

You’ll learn about:

• Florida traffic laws and safe driving practices

• How alcohol and drugs affect your ability to drive

• Defensive driving techniques

• What to expect on the Class E Knowledge Exam

Pick Your Course Format

You can choose the course format that best fits your schedule and learning style:

• Online TLSAE courseFlorida Teen Drivers Ed Driversed.com: Self-paced, interactive, mobile-friendly

• In-person classroom course: Structured environment, real-time instruction

• Hybrid format: Combines flexibility with face-to-face learning support

Course Completion & What Comes Next

Time Commitment

• The TLSAE course takes 4 hours to complete

Final Exam

• You’ll take a multiple-choice test covering everything from traffic signs to substance abuse effects.

  • Pro Tip: You can bundle your TLSAE course with the permit testFlorida Combo Driversed.comFlorida Combo Driversed.comFlorida Combo Driversed.com through Driversed.com to save some time and money.

Retakes

• Didn’t pass the first time? Don’t worry—you can retake the exam until you pass, no extra charge.

Completion Reporting

• Your certificate is electronically submitted to the FLHSMV, and you'll receive a digital copy for your records.

Need extra practice? Use this Florida permit test study guideFlorida Permit Test Driversed.com to prepare for the Class E Knowledge Exam.

Even If You’re Nervous, You’ve Got This

“Even if I’m not a strong test-taker…”
The TLSAE course includes review questions, interactive modules, and unlimited retakes.

“Even if I don’t know which format to pick…”
Online is great for flexible learning. In-person is ideal for hands-on guidance. A hybrid lets you experience both.

“Even if I’m not sure what’s next…”
We’ll walk you through everything from what to bring to the DMV to where to get behind-the-wheel training.

Your Learner’s Permit: What You Need

Once you complete the TLSAE course, you’re eligible to apply for a Florida learner’s license at 15 years old.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Proof of TLSAE course completion

• Parental consent form (if under 18)

• Primary ID and Social Security number

• Proof of Florida residency

• Vision and hearing test at your local DMV

• Pass the Class E Knowledge ExamFlorida Learners Permit Driversed.com (50 questions, 80% passing score)

Driving Restrictions

• First 3 months: Drive only during daylight hours

• After 3 months: Drive until 10 p.m.

• A licensed adult (21+) must always be in the passenger seat

After Your Permit: What’s Next?

Start Behind-the-Wheel Training

• Complete 50 supervised driving hours (10 at night)

• A parent or responsible adult must certify your experience

Get started with the Florida drivers ed and permit test comboFlorida Combo Driversed.comFlorida Combo Driversed.comFlorida Combo Driversed.com to cover everything in one course.

Can You Get an Insurance Discount?

Many insurers offer discounts for new drivers who complete a certified course. Check out the Florida drug and alcohol courseFlorida Combo Driversed.comFlorida Combo Driversed.comFlorida Combo Driversed.com to qualify for possible savings and added safety benefits.

Wrap-Up: Ready to Roll?

The TLSAE course is your first step toward the freedom of the open road. It’s not just about checking a box—it’s about becoming a safer, smarter driver. With DriversEd.com, you get expert-backed courses that meet Florida's requirements and set you up for success.