Florida Class E Driver License Handbook 2023

Contact Information

• Customer Service Center: (850) 617-2000
• FLHSMV Official Website: flhsmv.gov
• Online Transactions: MyDMVPortal.flhsmv.gov
• Documentation Requirements: flhsmv.gov/WhatToBring
• Crash Reports: flhsmv.gov/traffic-crash-reports/#buy

Mission, Vision, and Values

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

Introduction

• Handbook provided by Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV).
• Preparation for Florida Driver License Knowledge Exam and Driving Skills Test.
• Not a legal authority, focuses on condensed points of Florida laws.

Legal Warnings

• Fraud in license applications is punishable by law.
• Penalties for allowing an unlicensed person to drive.

Public Records

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

Pending Statute Changes for 2023

• HB 0001 Education: IEPs as alternatives to traditional attendance.
• SB 272: Changes for young adults in out-of-home care.
• HB 425: Expansion of Move Over Law.
• HB 657: School zone speed limit enforcement.
• SB 766: School bus passing infractions.
• HB 965: Changes in reinstating suspended/revoked licenses.
• HB 1087: Child support enforcement.
• HB 949: Golf cart operation regulations.
• SB 1718: Human smuggling legislation.

Driver Licenses & ID Cards

Definitions

• Resident: Principal domicile in Florida for more than six consecutive months.
• Immigrant: Permanent Resident Alien with lawful status in the US.

Who Needs a Florida License?

• Residents must obtain a Florida driver license.
• Non-residents need a license if engaging in work or school enrollment.

License Classifications

• Class E: Non-commercial vehicles under 26,001 pounds.
• Commercial Licenses: Required for larger vehicles, hazardous materials, and passenger transport.

Requirements for License/ID

• Present primary identification, social security number, and proof of residential address.
• Special considerations for immigrants, non-immigrants, and Canadian citizens.

Learners License and Driver License Requirements

• Learners: Minimum age 15, completion of TLSAE, vision and knowledge exams.
• Driver License: Minimum age 16, completion of TLSAE, vision, and skill exams.

ID Card Provisions

• Available for individuals aged 5 and older.
• Special provisions for homeless and individuals below the poverty level.

Driving Schools & Test Providers

Courses

• TLSAE: Required for new license applicants.
• BDI and ADI: For traffic violations and reinstatement.
• DUI Programs: Required for alcohol-related suspensions.

Driving Privilege and Insurance

Insurance Laws

• No-Fault Law and Financial Responsibility Law must be complied with.
• Penalties for not maintaining insurance.

Restrictions for Minors

• Time restrictions on driving for those under 18.

Violations and Penalties

• Various offenses result in fines, imprisonment, and license suspension.

Driving Safety

Preparation

• Regular check-ups for vision, hearing, and health.
• Adjust vehicle settings before starting.

Distracted Driving

• Avoiding manual, visual, and cognitive distractions is crucial.
• Texting while driving is illegal.

Drinking and Drugged Driving

• Severe penalties for DUI.

Emotions and Road Rage

• Emotional states can impact driving safety.
• Road rage is dangerous and should be avoided.

Handling Emergencies

• Defensive driving techniques.
• Steps to take after a crash.
• Managing vehicle breakdowns and emergencies.

Special Driving Situations

• Handling animals on the road, low visibility, rain, and night driving.

Sharing the Road

• Rules for interacting with bicyclists, commercial vehicles, emergency vehicles, and school buses.

These notes capture the key points from the Florida Driver License Handbook 2023. They serve as a study aid for understanding Florida driving laws, preparing for the driver license exams, and maintaining safe driving practices.