Imagine finally turning 15 and being old enough to get your learner’s permit—only to find out the rules have changed.
Starting Aug. 1, 2025, Florida teens ages 15 to 18 must complete a new six-hour Driver Education Traffic Safety (DETS) course before qualifying for a learner’s permit. This is in addition to the required Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) component. The previous four-hour course no longer meets the state’s standards.
Florida officials expanded the permit requirements in response to the growing number of accidents involving teen drivers, hoping to better prepare young people for life behind the wheel.
At the Upper School, the news has quickly become a hot topic among students. Many freshmen and sophomores had already planned when they’d get their permits—now those plans require extra time.
“The old course was very eye-opening about the dangers of driving,” freshman Sam Herold said. “I think the new course will be helpful in making others more careful.”
Six hours may not sound like much, but for teens with homework, sports, clubs, and busy social lives, it can feel overwhelming. The course can be taken online or in person, which provides flexibility—but completion is now mandatory before anyone can receive a learner’s permit.
“I’ve been taking the course on the bus on the way to sailing, during office hours, and whenever I have free time,” freshman Atruro Zizold said.
Zizold, like many of his peers, is fitting the course into his packed schedule.
“I can’t wait to get my permit to drive around,” Zizold said.
Student reactions are mixed. Some are frustrated by the added time commitment, especially those managing extracurriculars, but most understand the goal.
“I’m happy I did not have to take the six-hour course,” Herold said. “But I see the benefits of it. The roads in Miami will be safer.”
Students who completed the old course before Aug. 1, 2025, have one year to obtain their permits without retaking the new version. After that, they must complete the DETS course to qualify.
To get started, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles recommends:
