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FLORIDA - A new law in Florida is changing the rules for young drivers and raising the bar for teen safety on the road.
Starting July first of next year, anyone between the ages of fifteen and seventeen must complete a certified driver education course before becoming eligible for a learner permit.
The legislation was signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis and is officially known as Senate Bill 994.
The new requirement updates previous state rules that only mandated a basic Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education course.
Under the revised statute, teens must now enroll in and pass a full driver education program that meets the curriculum standards of Florida’s Department of Education.
To obtain a learner permit, young applicants will also need to pass a vision and hearing exam, complete the Class E Knowledge Exam, submit a notarized parental consent form, and provide official documents verifying identity and residency.
Florida Virtual School, which offers the approved driver education course online at no cost, expects a surge in enrollment ahead of the law’s start date.
According to FLVS representatives, the course focuses on safe driving techniques, defensive driving strategies, and hazard recognition.
Supporters of the law say it will make Florida’s roads safer by ensuring that teen drivers are properly trained before they begin learning behind the wheel.
The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles is working closely with schools and online programs to help meet demand and ensure students are prepared.
The law goes into effect July 1st.