Getting Your Florida Learner's Permit: What to Know About the DETS Program

Getting your learner's permit is an exciting step toward independence. Whether you're dreaming of your first solo drive or just ready to stop asking for rides, a new update is coming to Florida’s permit process that you should know about.

Starting July 1, 2025, the familiar TLSAE (Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education) course will be replaced for teens under 18 by a new required course: DETS (Driver Education Traffic Safety).

This article breaks down what DETS is, how it compares to TLSAE, and what you need to do to stay on track.

What Is DETS?

DETS stands for Driver Education Traffic Safety. It’s a 6-hour course designed to prepare new teen drivers with critical safety knowledge before they hit the road. In addition to covering the risks of impaired driving, DETS puts more focus on:

• Making smart choices behind the wheel

• The risks of distracted or drowsy driving

• Building long-term, responsible habits

The course may include updated stats, real-life scenarios, and practical strategies to help you stay safe in a variety of situations.

How DETS Is Different From TLSAE

While TLSAE provided a basic overview of traffic laws and the effects of drugs and alcohol on driving, DETS goes a step further. It's more in-depth, with a stronger focus on safety, responsibility, and decision-making.

If you’re under 18, here’s what to expect:

• Before July 1, 2025: You can still take and use TLSAE to get your permit
• On or after July 1, 2025: You’ll need to enroll in and take the new DETS course instead

Already started TLSAE? You have until July 31, 2025 to finish to stay on track to get your learner’s permit.

What Else You’ll Need for Your Permit

Besides completing the right course, here’s what Florida teens under 18 need:

• Pass the written knowledge exam

• Take a vision and hearing test

• Provide these documents:

  • Proof of ID (like a birth certificate or passport)

  • Proof of Social Security Number (card or W-2)

  • Proof of Florida address (utility or phone bill)

  • Parent Consent Form (signed at the licensing office)

  • Parent Proctoring Form (if you took the exam online)

  • $48 fee for the license and permit

Make an appointment at your local Florida licensing office to complete the process.

Why Florida Is Making This Change

The state wants to better prepare teen drivers. By replacing TLSAE with DETS, Florida is aiming for:

• More confident, educated new drivers

• Fewer preventable crashes due to impairment or distraction

• Safer roads for everyone

The DETS course gives you a stronger foundation—not just to pass a test, but to handle real-world driving.

Quick FAQ

Can I still take TLSAE before July 1, 2025?
Yes! As long as you finish it by July 31, and use the certificate before it expires, you're good to go.

When will the new DETS course be available on Driversed.comDriversEd.comDriversEd.com ?
It launches in July 2025. We’ll update this article with enrollment links as soon as it's live.

Stay Informed

Getting your Florida learner’s permit is a big moment. DETS is just one more step to help make sure you start your driving journey safely and confidently.