Florida Permit Test: Rules of the Road

How long must a Florida driver under 18 hold a learner's license before getting a Class E license?

12 months, or until turning 18

Florida Statutes s. 322.05(2) requires at least 12 months with a learner's license for applicants under 18. FLHSMV says the holding period ends at 12 months or the 18th birthday, whichever comes first.

How many hours of supervised driving must be certified for a Florida applicant under 18?

50 hours, including 10 at night

Florida Statutes s. 322.05(3) requires certification of at least 50 hours behind the wheel with a licensed driver 21 or older, with at least 10 hours at night.

What happens to a Florida learner's required holding period after a moving traffic conviction?

Extends one year from conviction, or until 18

The FLHSMV teen laws page says the required period is extended one year from the conviction date or until age 18, whichever happens first.

Between what hours is a licensed 16-year-old in Florida restricted from driving alone?

11 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Florida Statutes s. 322.16(2) requires a driver under 17 to be accompanied by a licensed driver 21 or older after 11 p.m. and before 6 a.m., unless driving directly to or from work.

Between what hours is a licensed 17-year-old in Florida restricted from driving alone?

1 a.m. to 5 a.m.

Florida Statutes s. 322.16(3) requires a 17-year-old to be accompanied by a licensed driver 21 or older after 1 a.m. and before 5 a.m., unless driving directly to or from work.

What two exceptions allow a Florida 16 or 17-year-old licensee to drive during curfew hours?

Going to or from work, or with a licensed 21+ driver

Florida Statutes s. 322.16(2) and (3) allow driving during restricted hours when going directly to or from work, or when accompanied by a licensed driver at least 21.

What restriction applies when a Florida Class E licensee aged 15 through 17 accumulates 6 or more points in 12 months?

Business purposes only, for at least 1 year

Florida Statutes s. 322.161(1) requires a business purposes only restriction lasting no less than 1 year. It is withdrawn at 18 if no other grounds for restriction exist.

What can happen to a Florida minor who is not in compliance with school attendance?

License suspended or denied

The FLHSMV teen laws page says the driving privilege can be suspended, or the minor may be ineligible for a license until proving 30 consecutive days of attendance.

What is the maximum speed limit on Florida limited access highways?

70 mph

Florida Statutes s. 316.187(2)(a) sets the maximum allowable speed on limited access highways at 70 mph.

What is the default maximum speed in Florida business or residence districts when no other limit is posted?

30 mph

Florida Statutes s. 316.183(2) sets 30 mph in business or residence districts, and local governments can set 20 or 25 mph after an investigation.

What is the default maximum speed on Florida streets and highways outside business or residence districts when no other limit is posted?

55 mph

Florida Statutes s. 316.183(2) sets a 55 mph maximum at all other locations unless a different limit is posted.

What is the minimum speed on a Florida interstate highway with a posted 70 mph limit?

50 mph

Florida Statutes s. 316.183(2) sets a 50 mph minimum when the posted speed limit is 70 mph.

What is the highest school zone speed limit Florida statute allows in an urbanized area?

20 mph

Florida Statutes s. 316.1895(5) says no school zone limit shall be more than 20 mph in an urbanized area. The handbook lists school zones at 20 mph.

How long before and after school arrival or dismissal periods can a Florida school zone speed limit be in force?

30 minutes

Florida Statutes s. 316.1895(5) allows the limit during the 30 minutes before, during and 30 minutes after those periods.

Does Florida allow a 10 mph speeding buffer over the posted limit?

No, you can still be cited

The handbook calls the speeding buffer a myth and says you are not allowed to drive up to 10 mph over the limit and may receive a citation.

What happens to a speeding fine in a Florida school zone?

It is doubled

Florida Statutes s. 318.18(3)(c) says a person exceeding the limit in a school zone or designated school crossing pays double the listed fine, and the handbook also says fines are doubled in school zones. Two flat amounts apply instead: $50 for up to 5 mph over in a posted school zone, and $100 when a school zone speed camera issues the citation under s. 318.18(3)(d).

At a Florida four-way stop, who goes first when two vehicles reach it at the same time?

The vehicle on the right

Florida Statutes s. 316.123(2)(b) says the driver on the left yields to the vehicle on the right when vehicles reach a four-way stop at the same time.

Who must a Florida driver turning left at an intersection yield to?

Oncoming vehicles close enough to be a hazard

Florida Statutes s. 316.122 requires a driver turning left to yield to any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction that is in the intersection or close enough to be an immediate hazard.

With no traffic control device, who must yield when a driver is about to enter a Florida state-maintained road?

The driver entering the state road

Florida Statutes s. 316.121(3) says that driver must yield to all vehicles approaching on the state-maintained road.

Who has the right-of-way at a Florida roundabout entrance?

Traffic already in the roundabout

The handbook says drivers entering a roundabout must yield to traffic already in the roundabout.

What must a Florida driver do when a pedestrian crossing is guided by a dog guide or carrying a raised white cane?

Come to a full stop

Florida Statutes s. 316.1301(2) requires drivers to bring the vehicle to a full stop before the intersection or crossing and take precautions to avoid injuring the pedestrian.

May a Florida driver pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk for a pedestrian?

No

Florida Statutes s. 316.130(9) says a driver approaching from the rear shall not overtake and pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk to let a pedestrian cross.

May a Florida driver turn right on a steady red light?

Yes, after stopping, unless a sign prohibits it

Florida Statutes s. 316.075(1)(c)1.a allows a right turn after stopping at a steady red signal, yielding to pedestrians and other traffic, unless a posted sign prohibits it.

When may a Florida driver turn left on a steady red light?

One-way street onto one-way street going left

Florida Statutes s. 316.075(1)(c)1.b allows a left turn on red from a one-way street onto a one-way street where traffic moves to the left, after stopping and yielding.

How should a Florida driver treat a traffic signal that is out of order when no officer is present?

As a four-way stop

The handbook says to treat an out-of-order signal and its intersection as a four-way stop when law enforcement is not present.

Within how many feet of a fire hydrant is it illegal to stand or park in Florida?

15 feet

Florida Statutes s. 316.1945(1)(b)2 bars standing or parking within 15 feet of a fire hydrant, except momentarily to pick up or drop off passengers.

Within how many feet of a crosswalk at an intersection is standing or parking prohibited in Florida?

20 feet

Florida Statutes s. 316.1945(1)(b)3 sets 20 feet from a crosswalk at an intersection. The 2023 handbook says 20 feet of an intersection, so use the statute's wording.

Within how many feet on the approach to a flashing signal, stop sign or traffic signal is standing or parking prohibited in Florida?

30 feet

Florida Statutes s. 316.1945(1)(b)4 bars standing or parking within 30 feet upon the approach to a flashing signal, stop sign or traffic control signal at the side of the road.

Within how many feet of the nearest rail of a railroad crossing is parking prohibited in Florida?

50 feet

Florida Statutes s. 316.1945(1)(c)1 bars parking within 50 feet of the nearest rail of a crossing, unless the Department of Transportation sets a different distance, and except while actually loading or unloading.

How close to the curb must your right-hand wheels be when parked on a two-way Florida road?

Within 12 inches

Florida Statutes s. 316.195(1) requires the right-hand wheels to be parallel to and within 12 inches of the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway.

What must a Florida driver do before leaving a vehicle unattended, with limited exceptions?

Stop the engine, lock the ignition, remove the key

Florida Statutes s. 316.1975(1) requires stopping the engine, locking the ignition and removing the key. Limited exceptions include some delivery vehicles and vehicles started by remote control while locked.

Within how many feet of an oncoming vehicle must a Florida driver stop using high beams?

500 feet

Florida Statutes s. 316.238(1)(a) requires light aimed away from the oncoming driver's eyes within 500 feet of an oncoming vehicle. Low beams satisfy this rule.

Within how many feet of a vehicle ahead must a Florida driver stop using high beams?

300 feet

Florida Statutes s. 316.238(1)(b) bars the uppermost beam when approaching another vehicle from the rear within 300 feet.

Besides between sunset and sunrise, when does Florida law require vehicle lights?

During any rain, smoke or fog

Florida Statutes s. 316.217(1)(b) requires lighted lamps during any rain, smoke or fog. Paragraph (a) covers sunset to sunrise, including twilight.

Over at least what distance before a turn must a Florida driver signal continuously?

The last 100 feet

Florida Statutes s. 316.155(2) requires the signal to be given continuously during not less than the last 100 feet before turning.

How closely may a non-emergency driver follow a Florida fire apparatus responding to a fire alarm?

No closer than 500 feet

Florida Statutes s. 316.2025 bars following fire apparatus responding to an alarm closer than 500 feet, unless you are driving an authorized emergency vehicle on official business.

How many seconds of following distance does the Florida handbook recommend at a minimum in good conditions?

Four seconds

The handbook recommends a minimum following distance of four seconds in favorable conditions and more in bad weather. Florida Statutes s. 316.0895 sets only a reasonable and prudent standard, so the number is a handbook recommendation, not a statutory count.

How much clearance must a Florida driver give a bicyclist when passing?

At least 3 feet

Florida Statutes s. 316.083(2) requires a safe distance of not less than 3 feet when overtaking a bicycle in the same lane. If that cannot be done safely, the driver must stay behind.

When passing on the left in Florida using an oncoming lane, you must be back in your lane before coming within how many feet of an approaching vehicle?

200 feet

Florida Statutes s. 316.085(1) requires the overtaking vehicle to return to an authorized lane before coming within 200 feet of any approaching vehicle when the pass uses an oncoming lane.

Within how many feet of a railroad grade crossing is driving on the left side of the roadway prohibited in Florida?

100 feet

Florida Statutes s. 316.087(1)(d) bars driving left of center when approaching within 100 feet of or traversing a railroad grade crossing, on two-way roads.

When must a Florida driver leave the farthest left lane of a road with two or more lanes in the same direction?

When a faster vehicle is overtaking from behind

Florida Statutes s. 316.081(3) bars staying in the far left lane if the driver knows or should know a faster vehicle is overtaking from the rear. It does not apply while passing or preparing for a left turn.

When may a Florida driver pass on the right, assuming no obstructions?

Vehicle turning left, or 2+ lanes your direction

Florida Statutes s. 316.084(1) allows passing on the right when the other vehicle is making or about to make a left turn, on a road wide enough for two or more lines of traffic in each direction, or on a one-way road wide enough for two or more lines. Driving off the pavement to do it is never allowed.

May a Florida driver use a turn signal to tell the driver behind that it is safe to pass?

No

Florida Statutes s. 316.155(4) says signals may not be flashed as a courtesy or do-pass signal to drivers approaching from the rear. The handbook says the same.

On a Florida two-way road, which drivers must stop for a school bus displaying a stop signal?

Drivers in both directions

The handbook says all drivers moving in either direction on a two-way street must stop. Florida Statutes s. 316.172(1)(a) requires a full stop for any school bus displaying a stop signal.

When are Florida drivers traveling opposite a stopped school bus not required to stop?

With 5+ feet unpaved space, raised median, or barrier

Florida Statutes s. 316.172(2) exempts drivers going the opposite direction on a divided highway with an unpaved space of at least 5 feet, a raised median or a physical barrier.

Do painted lines count as a barrier that excuses stopping for a Florida school bus?

No

The handbook says painted lines or pavement markings are not considered barriers.

How long must Florida drivers wait behind a school bus that displays a stop signal?

Until signal is withdrawn and children are clear

Florida Statutes s. 316.172(1)(a) says the vehicle shall not pass the bus until the signal has been withdrawn. The handbook says you must remain stopped until the stop signal is withdrawn and all children are clear of the roadway.

What is the required stopping distance from the nearest rail when a Florida railroad crossing signals a train?

Between 15 and 50 feet

Florida Statutes s. 316.1575(1) requires stopping within 50 feet but not less than 15 feet from the nearest rail.

What must a Florida driver do when an emergency vehicle approaches with siren or flashing lights?

Pull to the closest edge and stop until it passes

Florida Statutes s. 316.126(1)(a) requires yielding, moving parallel to and close to the closest edge of the road, clear of any intersection, and stopping until the emergency vehicle has passed.

Under Florida's Move Over law, what must you do on a road with two or more lanes in your direction when an emergency vehicle is parked on the roadside?

Vacate the lane closest to it, if safe

Florida Statutes s. 316.126(1)(b)1 requires leaving the lane closest to the stopped vehicle as soon as it is safe, unless an officer directs otherwise.

Under Florida's Move Over law, how much must you slow if you cannot safely leave the closest lane, with a posted limit of 25 mph or more?

To 20 mph below the posted limit

Florida Statutes s. 316.126(1)(b)2 requires slowing to 20 mph less than the posted limit when the posted limit is 25 mph or greater.

Under Florida's Move Over law, what speed is required where the posted limit is 20 mph or less?

5 mph

Florida Statutes s. 316.126(1)(b)2 requires traveling at 5 mph when the posted limit is 20 mph or less.

Does Florida's Move Over law cover a disabled vehicle stopped with hazard lights on?

Yes

Florida Statutes s. 316.126(1)(b) covers a disabled motor vehicle stopped with warning or hazard lights, using flares or signage, or with a person visibly present.

At what blood or breath alcohol level does a Florida driver age 21 or older commit DUI per se?

0.08 or more

Florida Statutes s. 316.193(1) makes it DUI to drive with a blood or breath alcohol level of 0.08 or more. A driver can also be convicted at any level if normal faculties are impaired.

At what blood or breath alcohol level is it unlawful for a Florida driver under 21 to drive?

0.02 or higher

Florida Statutes s. 322.2616(1)(a) makes it unlawful for a person under 21 to drive with a blood or breath alcohol level of 0.02 or higher.

How long is a first suspension for a Florida driver under 21 caught at 0.02 or higher?

6 months

Florida Statutes s. 322.2616(2)(b)1.b sets a 6-month suspension for a first violation and 1 year if previously suspended under this section.

At what level must a Florida driver under 21 finish a substance abuse course before the suspension can end?

0.05 or higher

Florida Statutes s. 322.2616(2)(c) keeps the suspension in effect until the driver completes a substance abuse course through a licensed DUI program when the level is 0.05 or higher.

What is the license suspension for a first refusal to take a lawful breath, blood or urine test in Florida?

1 year

Florida Statutes s. 322.2615(1)(b) sets a 1-year suspension for a first refusal. The handbook agrees.

What is the license suspension for a second refusal of a lawful breath, blood or urine test in Florida?

18 months

Florida Statutes s. 322.2615(1)(b) sets an 18-month suspension if the license was previously suspended for a refusal.

Under Florida's 2025 change to s. 316.1939, what criminal charge applies to a first refusal of a lawful breath or urine test after arrest?

A second-degree misdemeanor

Since 2025, Florida Statutes s. 316.1939(1) makes a first refusal a second-degree misdemeanor and a second or later refusal a first-degree misdemeanor. The 2023 handbook lists only the first-degree charge for a second refusal, so follow the statute.

According to the Florida handbook, what is the first thing affected after drinking alcohol?

Judgment

The handbook says a person's judgment is the first thing affected after drinking an alcoholic beverage.

What is the fine range for a first Florida DUI conviction, with no aggravating factors?

$500 to $1,000

Florida Statutes s. 316.193(2)(a)1.a sets a fine of not less than $500 or more than $1,000 for a first conviction.

What is the minimum license revocation for a first Florida DUI conviction?

180 days

Florida Statutes s. 322.28(2)(a) says the license shall be revoked for at least 180 days but not more than 1 year for a first conviction, except a violation resulting in death.

Who is responsible under Florida law when a passenger under 18 is not restrained?

The driver

Florida Statutes s. 316.614(4)(a) makes it unlawful to operate a vehicle unless each passenger under 18 is restrained. The handbook says the driver will be charged.

Who is responsible under Florida law when a front seat passenger who is 18 or older does not wear a safety belt?

The passenger

Florida Statutes s. 316.614(5) makes it unlawful for a person 18 or older to be an unbelted front seat passenger.

What child restraint does Florida require for children through age 3?

A separate carrier or integrated child seat

Florida Statutes s. 316.613(1)(a)1 requires a separate carrier or a vehicle manufacturer's integrated child seat for children aged through 3.

What child restraint options does Florida allow for children aged 4 through 5?

Carrier, integrated seat, or booster seat

Florida Statutes s. 316.613(1)(a)2 allows a separate carrier, integrated child seat or child booster seat for ages 4 through 5, with limited exceptions.

Under current Florida statute, what kind of violation is a first offense for texting while driving?

A nonmoving violation

Florida Statutes s. 316.305(4)(a) makes a first violation a noncriminal nonmoving infraction, and a second within 5 years is a moving violation under (4)(b). The 2023 handbook points table lists texting while driving at 3 points without separating first and repeat offenses, and 3 points is the value for a moving violation under s. 322.27(3)(d)8.

Where is holding a phone while driving prohibited in Florida?

School crossings, school zones, active work zones

Florida Statutes s. 316.306(3)(a)1 bars using a wireless device in a handheld manner in those areas. The work zone rule applies only if construction personnel are present or operating equipment.

How many points does a Florida speeding conviction 15 mph or less over the limit add?

3 points

Florida Statutes s. 322.27(3)(d)5.a assigns 3 points for unlawful speed not in excess of 15 mph over the lawful or posted limit.

How many points does a Florida speeding conviction more than 15 mph over the limit add?

4 points

Florida Statutes s. 322.27(3)(d)5.b assigns 4 points for unlawful speed in excess of 15 mph over the lawful or posted limit.

What is the maximum suspension for a Florida driver who accumulates 12 points within 12 months?

30 days

Florida Statutes s. 322.27(3)(a) sets a suspension of not more than 30 days. The handbook lists a 30-day suspension.

When must a Florida driver immediately notify law enforcement about a crash?

Injury, death, or at least $2,000 damage

Florida Statutes s. 316.065(1) requires immediate notice by the quickest means for a crash resulting in injury, death or apparent damage of at least $2,000.

Within how many days must a Florida driver file a written report for a crash that does not need a law enforcement report?

10 days

Florida Statutes s. 316.066(1)(e) requires the driver to submit a written report to the department within 10 days after a crash resulting in vehicle or property damage that does not require a law enforcement report.

What minimum insurance must a Florida vehicle owner carry?

$10,000 PIP and $10,000 property damage

The handbook says every owner or operator must have a minimum of $10,000 in Personal Injury Protection and $10,000 in Property Damage Liability. Florida Statutes s. 324.022 confirms the property damage amount.