If you have a teenager preparing to get their learner’s permit in Florida, there’s a new law you need to know about — and it’s already in effect.
As of July 1st, Florida Senate Bill 994 (SB 994) requires anyone between the ages of 15 and 17 to complete a state-approved traffic safety course before the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles will issue a learner’s permit. The goal? Safer roads and better-prepared teen drivers.
But that’s not all. If you’re 18 or older and applying for a driver’s license for the first time, there’s a separate version of the course designed just for you. This isn’t optional. It’s now part of Florida’s official licensing process.
Why This Law Matters
Florida’s roads have seen a troubling number of crashes involving inexperienced drivers. According to state data, teen driver accidents are far more common and likely to be involved in serious or fatal accidents, often due to inexperience or poor decision-making behind the wheel.
SB 994 was created to change that. By requiring young drivers to complete formal training before hitting the road, the state hopes to reduce accidents, improve confidence, and create safer habits from day one.
As a Miami Car Accident Lawyer, I’ve seen firsthand how a lack of driver education can lead to devastating consequences — not just in Florida, but here in Georgia too. While this law is specific to Florida residents, it serves as a powerful reminder that driver education saves lives, and neighboring states like Georgia could benefit from similar reforms.
What Parents and Teens Should Know
If you’re a parent in Florida, now’s the time to get ahead of this. Your teen won’t be able to legally drive — even with a permit — unless they show proof of completing the new course. Here’s what you should do:
- Find a certified course through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
- Ensure your teen completes the course and receives proper documentation
- Stay involved throughout the process to reinforce safe driving habits
The same goes for adults who are first-time drivers. Age doesn’t exempt anyone from the new requirements.
How This Relates to Florida Drivers
While this law doesn’t directly affect Florida residents, it highlights the growing trend toward enhanced traffic safety through education. In Georgia, for example, teen drivers are required to complete the Joshua’s Law program, which includes 30 hours of classroom instruction and 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training.
Still, many new drivers in Florida enter the road with minimal real-world experience, and as a Miami Car Accident Lawyer, I often deal with the aftermath of these gaps in training.
If you’re involved in a crash caused by an inexperienced or negligent driver — whether they’re from Florida, Georgia, or another state — you have legal rights. A qualified Miami Car Accident Lawyer can help you understand your options, protect your rights, and pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and more.
