Florida Class E Driver License Handbook 2023

General Information

• Customer Service Center: (850) 617-2000
• FLHSMV Official Website: flhsmv.gov
• Online Transactions: MyDMVPortal.flhsmv.gov
• Documentation Requirements: flhsmv.gov/WhatToBring

Mission, Vision, and Values

• Mission: Provide highway safety and security through excellence in service, education, and enforcement.
• Vision: A Safer Florida
• Values:
  • Service, Integrity, Courtesy, Professionalism, Innovation, Excellence.

Introduction

• Produced by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV).
• Contains information for the Class E Knowledge Exam and Driving Skills Test.
• Not a legal authority; may not reflect recent legislative changes.

Legal Warnings

• Florida law prohibits using false information for driver license applications.
• Penalties include prison, fines, and suspension of driving privileges.

Public Records

• FLHSMV collects personal information for records management and law enforcement.
• Certain personal information is exempt from public disclosure.

Pending Statute Changes for 2023

• HB 0001: Education - Alternative to traditional school attendance for under 18.
• SB 272: Care for children and young adults - Changes in requirements for enrollment.
• HB 425: Transportation - Expansion of Move Over Law.
• HB 657: School Zone Speed Limits - Camera enforcement.
• SB 766: School Bus Passing Infractions - Detection systems.

Driver Licenses & ID Cards

Definitions

• Resident: Principal place of domicile in Florida for 6+ months.
• Immigrant: Permanent Resident Alien.
• Non-Immigrant: Seeks temporary entry for specific purpose.
• US Citizen: Born in US/territories, Naturalized, or Certificate of Citizenship.

Who Needs a Florida License to Drive?

• Florida residents must have a Florida driver license.
• Certain non-residents must obtain a Florida driver license within 30 days of employment or school enrollment.

Exceptions

• Non-residents with valid licenses from other states.
• Various exemptions for government employees and military personnel.

License Classifications

• Non-Commercial (Class E): Allows operation of vehicles under 26,001 pounds.
• Commercial (CDL): Classifications for larger vehicles and hazardous materials.

Identification and Documentation

• Primary Identification: Birth certificate, passport, or immigration documents.
• Social Security Number: Required for driver license or ID card.
• Secondary ID: Required if no social security number issued.
• Proof of Address: Two documents showing Florida residential address.

Class E Learners & Driver License Requirements

• Learners License: Minimum age 15, completion of TLSAE course, pass vision and knowledge exams.
• Driver License: Minimum age 16, hold learners for 12 months, 50 hours driving experience.

Fees

• Range from $25 for ID card replacement to $48 for license renewal.
• Additional reinstatement fees for certain violations or insurance lapses.

Safety and Driving Laws

Insurance Laws

• No-Fault Law: Requires PIP and PDL coverage.
• Financial Responsibility Law: Proof of insurance required, additional coverage for DUIs.

Driving Privileges and Restrictions

• Minors have driving curfews and restrictions.
• Violations can result in fines, suspension, or jail time.

Safety Belts and Child Safety

• Safety belt laws for all drivers and passengers under 18.

DUI and Substance Laws

• Strict penalties for DUI, including license suspension and fines.
• Zero tolerance for drivers under 21 with a BAL of .02 or higher.

Driving Skills and Testing

Driving Schools and Courses

• TLSAE Course: Required for new drivers.
• Basic and Advanced Driver Improvement: For points or specific violations.

Testing

• Vision and Hearing: Screening required.
• Knowledge Exam: 50 multiple-choice questions.
• Driving Skills Test: Vehicle inspection and maneuver tests.

Safety Tips

Distracted Driving

• Avoid distractions such as texting, using cell phones, and adjusting controls while driving.

Defensive Driving

• Adapt to road conditions and anticipate actions of other drivers.

Emergencies

• Procedures for handling breakdowns, tire blowouts, and accidents.

Special Situations

Traffic Controls

• Understanding pavement markings and traffic signals.

Sharing the Road

• Rules for interacting with bicyclists, pedestrians, and other vehicles.

Night and Weather Driving

• Use appropriate lights and increase following distances in poor conditions.

Study Guide for Knowledge Exam

• Provides common questions and areas of focus for the knowledge exam.