Florida DETS Requirements: Myths, Facts, and Your Clear Path to a Learner’s Permit

TL;DR: No, Florida teens don’t need 50 hours of drivers ed to get a permit. The real requirement is the new 6-hour DETS Course for anyone under 18 starting August 1, 2025.

Let’s Clear the Confusion: What’s Actually Required?

Lately, headlines and TikToks have been buzzing with a myth: that Florida teens now need 50 hours of classroom drivers ed to get their learner’s permit.

That’s completely false.

“Misinformation around driver education spreads quickly on social media,” said Laura Adams, Aceable’s Senior Driving Analyst. “In Florida, teens under 18 must complete a state-required course and hold a learner’s permit for at least a year before applying for a full license. Online myths make the process seem far more complicated than it actually is.”

Here’s the truth: Florida now requires teens under 18 to complete a 6-hour Driver Education Traffic Safety (DETS) Course to apply for a learner’s permit. Not 50 hours. Not weeks of classes. Just 6 hours—online, mobile-friendly, and doable on your schedule.

DETS vs. TLSAE: What Changed?

The DETS Course is the state’s new requirement for first-time drivers under 18. It replaces the older 4-hour TLSAE (Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education) course starting August 1, 2025.

Think of DETS as a software update to the old TLSAE: more modern, more skills-focused, and more aligned with real-world driving.

“Teens need to understand the steps to get their learner’s permit, including completing the DETS course, logging practice hours, and passing the knowledge exam, without confusion or unnecessary stress,” Adams added. “Clear guidance helps families and new drivers feel confident and prepared.”

Important Dates to Know

• Now – July 31, 2025: You can take either the 4-hour TLSAE or the 6-hour DETS course

• August 1, 2025: DETS becomes mandatory for all drivers under 18

• Already took TLSAE? If you finish before August 1, 2025, you’re still covered

Want a deeper dive on the state policy shift? Check out our Florida permit law changesBig Changes Florida Teen Permit Requirements Starting July 1 2025 Blog.

How to Get Your Florida Learner’s Permit (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Take the 6-Hour Drug and Alcohol (DETS) Course

Complete the state-required Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course, often referred to as the Drug and Alcohol or DETS course. You must use a state-approved provider.

Step 2: Pass the Knowledge Exam

Pass the knowledge exam (50 questions on road signs and traffic laws)—start prepping with this permit practice testPermit Practice Test Dmv and see how many questions are on itHow Many Questions On Permit Test Dmv.

Step 3: Bring Your Certificate and ID Documents to a Service Center

Take your TLSAE course completion certificate along with required identification documents to a Florida driver license service center or tax collector office.

Step 4: Get Your Permit and Begin Practice Driving

Once you’ve passed and submitted your documents, you’ll receive your learner’s permit. At this stage, you should start logging practice hours—Florida recommends 50 hours of behind-the-wheel practice with a licensed driver. Parents can use this parent-taught driving hours guide to track progress.

Final Word: Don’t Let Misinformation Drive You Off Course

Getting your license is a milestone. Don’t let viral rumors add stress to what should be an exciting journey.

Florida’s DETS course is about making teens safer, smarter drivers. And with Aceable, you can take it online, on your time, with zero hassle. If you're planning ahead, consider why summer is the best time to take drivers edWhy Summer Best Time Take Drivers Ed Blog.

Want to understand the big picture? Start by learning about the types of driver licensesTypes Of Driver Licenses Safe Driving you can earn.