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DRIVER LICENSE HANDBOOK
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Customer Service Center ................................................ 850/617-2000
DHSMV Official Website ........................................................ flhsmv.gov
Online Transactions (DHSMV Virtual Office) .................. GoRenew.com
Documentation Requirements ..................... flhsmv.gov/WhatToBring
To Order a Crash Report .................................................. 850/617-3416
Neil Kirkman Building
2900 Apalachee Parkway
Tallahassee, Florida 32399
Our Mission

Provide highway safety and security through excellence in

service, education and enforcement.
Our Vision

A Safer Florida
Our Values

We believe in:

Service by exceeding expectations;

Integrity by upholding the highest ethical standards;

Courtesy by treating everyone with dignity and respect;

Professionalism by inspiring confidence and trust;

Innovation by fostering creativity; and

Excellence in all we do!
2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.
All rights reserved. No portion of this material may be modified in any way
for distribution or publication without the express prior written permission
of the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 i
INTRODUCTION
The Official Florida Driver License Handbook is produced by the Florida Department of
Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). This guide has the information you need
to prepare for the Florida Driver License Class E Knowledge Exam and Driving Skills Test
and to help you drive safely and lawfully.
Disclaimer
The Official Florida Driver License Handbook contains many condensed and paraphrased
points of Florida laws and provides safety advice not specifically addressed in the laws. The
handbook is not a legal authority and is not intended for use in court. This handbook will
not reflect any changes made by the Florida Legislature after the last revision date (located
at the bottom of this page).
Warning
Florida law prohibits using a false name, making a false statement, concealing a material fact
or otherwise using fraud in an application for a driver license or ID card. The penalty can be
up to five years in prison, a $5,000 fine, and suspension of any existing driving privilege for
at least one year.
In addition, it is illegal to permit or authorize an unlicensed person to drive a motor vehicle.
Doing so can result in a 60 day jail sentence and a $500 fine. If the vehicle is involved in
a crash resulting in bodily injury or death of any person, the person who permitted the
unlicensed person to drive shall have his/her license suspended for one year.
Public Records
Florida law requires the DHSMV to collect certain personal information during the
licensing process. This information, which identifies licensed individuals, is used for records
management, driver improvement, financial responsibility, and law enforcement purposes.
If you do not provide the required information, you will not receive a driver license or ID
card.
Florida's Public Records Law makes all records made or received by DHSMV in the
course of its official business available for inspection, unless specifically exempted by law.
Your personal information, including name, address, and driver license number is exempt
from public disclosure, but may be given to law enforcement agencies and other entities
permitted by law to get the information. Your medical information, social security number,
and emergency contact information are available only as specifically authorized by law.
DHSMV strives to ensure the accuracy of the information obtained during the licensing
process. If you discover any incorrect information, please call us at (850) 617-2000 or mail
your request with your complete name, date of birth, driver license number, information
about the error, and any documentation to support your request to: Chief of the Bureau of
Records, 2900 Apalachee Parkway MS 89, Tallahassee, FL 32399-0575. Some information,
such as reports of convictions received from a court, can only be corrected if notification
from the court is received that the report was in error.
ii 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
FLORIDA STATUTE CHANGES FOR 2018
316.003, 316.008, 316.2071, 316.614, 320.01,320.02, 322.03, 322.12,
324.021, Florida Statutes: Effective July 1, 2018, the definition of motorcycle is
amended to include an autocycle, which is defined as a three-wheeled motorcycle
having two wheels in the front and one wheel in the back, equipped with a roll
cage or roll hoops, a seat belt for each occupant, antilock brakes, a steering wheel,
and seating that does not require the driver to straddle the vehicle. The driver,
front seat passenger and any passenger under the age of 18 years old must wear a
safety belt. Autocycle drivers are not required to have a motorcycle endorsement or
complete a motorcycle skills and knowledge test to operate an autocycle.
322.051, 322.14, 322.135, Florida Statutes: Effective July 1, 2018, veterans
presenting proof of veteran status are exempt from paying the $1 or $2 fee to
have the "Veteran" designation added to their driver license or ID card. Forms
of identification presented as proof of veteran status include a DD-214 form
reflecting an honorable discharge from active duty, a veteran ID card or veteran
health ID card. Additionally, customers showing proof of veteran status will not be
charged the $6.25 tax collector service fee for driver license services.
320.08, Florida Statutes: Effective July 1, 2018, expands eligibility for the
agricultural or forestry restricted license plate to include qualifying trucks
operating anywhere within the state or within a 150-mile radius of their home
address.
320.02, 320.27, Florida Statutes: Effective October 1, 2018, applications for
motor vehicle registrations must include language indicating an applicant is deaf
or hard of hearing. This information is required to be entered into the Driver
and Vehicle Information Database and available through the Florida Crime
Information Center System, ensuring that law enforcement is aware of the hearing
impairment.
318.14, 318.15, Florida Statutes: Effective January 1, 2019, persons receiving a
noncriminal moving violation, not requiring a mandatory court appearance, will
receive a 9% reduction in the cost of the civil penalty, if they elect to attend a
Basic Driver Improvement course.
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 iii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Contact Info ...................... Inside Front Cover

Introduction .............................................................. i

Public Records ......................................................... i

Law Changes for 2018 ............................................ ii
PART 1: DRIVING IN FLORIDA ........................ 1
1. Preparing to Drive: Your Vehicle .............. 3

Getting Ready to Drive ...........................................3

Equipment Standards ...........................................3

Required Equipment ..............................................3

Equipment NOT Permitted ...................................4

Bumper Height Requirements .............................4

Keep Your Car in Good Condition .......................4

Anti-Lock Brake System ........................................5

Trailers, Towing, & Load ........................................5

Drawbar or Towing Connection ...........................5

Securing the Load ..................................................6

Projecting Load .......................................................6

Slow Moving Vehicle ..............................................6
2. Preparing to Drive: Youthe Driver ......... 7

Physical Conditions ...............................................7

Drowsy Driving ........................................................7

Emotions ..................................................................7

Road Rage ................................................................8

Distracted Driving ...................................................8

Drinking & Driving ...................................................9

Drugged Driving ......................................................9

Older Drivers .........................................................10

Florida 511 Traffic Info .........................................10
3. Occupant Protection ............................ 11

Seat Belts & Child Restraints ..............................11

Leaving Children Unsupervised in Vehicles ....12
4. Traffic Controls .................................... 13

Pavement Markings ..............................................13

Edge Lines ..............................................................13

White Lane Lines ...................................................13

Yellow Lane Lines .................................................13

Turn Lanes..............................................................14

Reversible Lanes ...................................................14

Bicycle Lanes .........................................................14

White Stop Lines ...................................................14

Crosswalks .............................................................15

Other Markings ......................................................15

Traffic Signs ............................................................15

Traffic Sign Colors ................................................15

Traffic Sign Shapes ...............................................16

Regulatory Signs ...................................................16

Warning Signs ........................................................18

Informational Signs ..............................................21

Traffic Control Signals ..........................................21

Steady Signal Lights .............................................21

Flashing Signal Lights ..........................................22

Lane Signals...........................................................23

Ramp Signals .........................................................23

Pedestrian Signals ................................................23

Zones of Caution ..................................................24

School Zone Signs & Signals ..............................24

Railroad Crossing Signs & Signals .....................24

Drawbridge Signs & Signals ................................25

Construction/Maintenance Signs & Signals ....26
5. Driving Safely ...................................... 27

Speed Limits ..........................................................27

Braking Distance ...................................................28

Smooth Stops........................................................29

Making Turns .........................................................29

Three-Point Turn ..................................................30

Intersections ..........................................................30

Open Intersections ...............................................30

Right-of-Way ..........................................................30

Roundabouts .........................................................31

Driveways ...............................................................31

Traffic Lanes ...........................................................31

Safe Following Distances ....................................32

Following Distance for Trucks ............................33

Blind Spots .............................................................33

Passing ....................................................................33

Passing on the Right ............................................34

Where You Must Not Pass... .................................34

Being Passed .........................................................34

Limited Access Highways ....................................34

Entering & Leaving Interstate Highways...........35

Interstate Safety Reminders ...............................36

Parking ....................................................................36

Parking Lights .......................................................36

Straight-in Parking ................................................36

Parking on Hills .....................................................36

Where Parking is Not Allowed ............................37
iv 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Table of Contents Continued

Backing Up .............................................................37
6. Sharing the Road ................................. 39

Sharing the Road with Pedestrians ...................39

Rules for Pedestrians ...........................................39

Right-of-Way ..........................................................39

Pedestrian Safety Tips .........................................40

Sharing the Road with Bicycles .........................40

Rules for Bicyclists ................................................41

Bicyclist Safety Tips ..............................................41

Motorcycle Awareness .........................................42

Rules for Motorcycle/Moped ..............................42

School Buses .........................................................43

School Crossings ..................................................43

Emergency Vehicles .............................................44

Florida's Move Over Law ......................................44

Funeral Processions .............................................44

Public Transit .........................................................44

Commercial Vehicles ...........................................44

Rules for Motorists ................................................44

Passing Commercial Vehicles ............................45

Golf Carts ................................................................46

Low Speed Vehicles..............................................46
7. Special Driving Situations ..................... 47

Night Driving ..........................................................47

Low Visibility ..........................................................48

Rain .........................................................................48

Animals ...................................................................49

Following Law Enforcement Instructions ........49
8. Handling Emergencies .......................... 51

Defensive Driving ..................................................51

Avoiding Rear-end Collisions .............................51

Breakdowns ...........................................................52

Vehicle Approaching in Your Lane .....................52

Right Wheels Off Pavement ................................52

Overcorrection ......................................................52

Skidding..................................................................52

Emergency Braking ..............................................52

Brake Failure ..........................................................53

Wet Brakes .............................................................53

Jammed Gas Pedal ..............................................53

Tire Blowout ..........................................................53

Fire ...........................................................................53

Stalled on Railroad Tracks ..................................54

Submerged Vehicle ..............................................54

Power Outage ........................................................54

Your Responsibilities After a Crash ....................54

Leaving the Scene.................................................55

Hit & Run Penalties ...............................................55

First Aid ...................................................................56
9. Your Driving Privilege ........................... 57

Insurance Laws .....................................................57

The No-Fault Law .................................................57

The Financial Responsibility Law ......................58

Vehicle Registration..............................................59

Applying for Title, Plates & Registration ...........60

Renewal ..................................................................60

Violations of the License Law .............................60

Time Restrictions for Minors (Driving Curfew) 61

Littering ..................................................................61

Road Damage ........................................................61

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) .....................61

Implied Consent Law ...........................................61

Penalties for DUI ...................................................62

Zero Tolerance ......................................................62

Traffic Crashes .......................................................63

Three Crashes in Three Years Law .....................63

Point System ..........................................................63

Mandatory Restriction for Minors ......................64

Losing the Privilege to Drive ...............................64

Penalties for Passing a Stopped School Bus ...66

Administrative Hearings ......................................66

Disabled Parking Permit ......................................66
PART 2: THE FLORIDA DRIVER LICENSE ........ 67
10. Getting Your License or ID Card ............. 69

Who Needs a Florida License to Drive? ............69

Exceptions for the Florida Driver License.........69

Florida Driver License Classifications ...............70

Requirements for Class E License .....................70

Learner's License ..................................................71

Reciprocity .............................................................71

Traffic Law & Substance Abuse Education ......71

Parent's Consent for Minors ................................71

Physical & Mental Requirements .......................71

Restriction Codes .................................................72
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 v

Identification Requirements ..............................73

Primary Identification ..........................................73

Proof of Social Security Number .......................75

Proof of Residential Address ..............................76

ID cards ...................................................................77

ID Cards for Persons Homeless Persons ..........77

ID Cards for Persons at/below Poverty Level ..77

License Renewal ...................................................77

Renewal Issuance Requirements ......................77

Renewing Online ..................................................78

License/ID Card Replacement ...........................78

Replacement Requirements...............................79

Change of Address ................................................79

Name Changes ......................................................79

Veterans ..................................................................80

Veteran Designation on License or ID Card .....80

Exempt Fees for 100% Disabled US Vets ..........80

Selective Service ...................................................80

Sexual Offenders & Sexual Predators ...............81

Career Offenders ...................................................81

Florida Organ & Tissue Donor Program ...........81

Emergency Contact Information .......................81

Voluntary Contributions ......................................81

Fees .........................................................................82
11. Driving School Providers ...................... 85

TLSAE Course Providers ......................................85

Third Party Driver License Exams ......................85

Basic Driver Improvement Course ....................85

Advanced Driver Improvement Courses ..........86

Licensed DUI Programs .......................................86

Older Driver Insurance Courses .........................86
12. Driver License Testing .......................... 87

Testing Options .....................................................87

License Examinations ..........................................87

Vision .......................................................................87

Class E Knowledge Exam ....................................88

Driving Skills Test ..................................................88

Vehicle Inspection ................................................89
STUDY GUIDE FOR THE TEST ....................... 91
flhsmv.gov online services ... Inside Back Cover
IMPORTANT INFO
FOR MINOR DRIVERS
Learner's License
Must always drive accompanied
by a licensed driver, age 21 or
older, who rides in the closest
seat to the right of the driver.
Must only drive during daylight
hours during the first 3 months
after earning learner's license. After
3 months, may drive until 10 pm.
Must have at least 50 hours
driving experience prior to
getting driver license, and 10
hours should be at night.
Age 16 with Driver License
Must not drive between 11 pm to 6 am
unless driving to or from work OR
accompanied by a licensed driver
who is age 21 or older.
Age 17 with Driver License
Must not drive between 1 am to 5 am
unless driving to or from work OR
accompanied by a licensed driver
who is age 21 or older.
Driving Record Points
Any driver under the age of 18
who accumulates 6 or more
points within a 12 month period
is automatically restricted for
one year to driving for "Business
Purposes ONLY."
Remember...
Always carry your driver license
with you when driving, and always
have proof of vehicle registration
and insurance with you in the
vehicle you are driving.
vi 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Studying the official Florida Driver License
Handbook is the first step in joining the more
than 16 million licensed drivers in Florida.
The Florida Department of Highway Safety
and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) provides this
handbook to give each driver the information
they need to be safe on the roads and build a
foundation of driving knowledge that will last a
lifetime. The information contained within this
handbook provides you with an understanding
of the rules of the road, traffic signals and how
to safely drive under various conditions and
circumstances.
Driving can unlock a world of opportunity, but this tremendous privilege
also comes with great risk. Driver education and being properly prepared
for the road can save your life and the lives of others. Be sure to carefully
review this handbook to ensure your safety and the safety of the millions of
people who travel Florida's roads.
On behalf of the DHSMV and the Florida Highway Patrol, we welcome
you to join us in upholding our vision of A Safer Florida. Keep your eyes
on the road, your hands on the wheel and your mind on driving.
Safe travels,
Terry L. Rhodes,
Executive Director
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
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The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 1
PART 1DRIVING IN FLORIDA
1. Preparing to Drive: Your Vehicle
2. Preparing to Drive: Youthe Driver
3. Occupant Protection
4. Traffic Controls
5. Driving Safely
6. Sharing the Road
7. Special Driving Situations
8. Handling Emergencies
9. Your Driving Privilege
2 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
1
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 3
PREPARING TO DRIVE: YOUR VEHICLE
Getting Ready to Drive
Before you start your engine:
be sure vehicle is in park or neutral.
adjust the seat so you can reach all controls.
adjust all rear-view mirrors so that you can use them without having to
lean forward or backward.
move anything that blocks your view of mirrors or roadway.
lock all car doors.
put on your seat belt and make sure all passengers do the same.
Equipment Standards
The equipment on your car must meet certain standards. You may be
stopped at any time by law enforcement for a vehicle inspection.
Required Equipment
Brakes
Two braking systems. Each must be able to stop the car
alone. The parking or emergency brake should be strong
enough to hold the car on any hill.
Low Beam Headlights
Show objects 150 feet ahead. Visible from 1,000 feet.
High Beam Headlights Show objects 450 feet ahead. Visible from 1,000 feet.
Taillights
Two red taillights. Visible from 1,000 feet.
Brake lights
Two red brake lights. Visible from 300 feet in the daytime.
License Plate Light
White light that makes the license plate visible from 50 feet.
Directional Signals
Amber; or white (front) or red (rear). Visible from 500 feet.
Horn
Heard from a distance of 200 feet.
Mirrors
At least one rear-view mirror with view 200 feet to the rear.
Windshield Wiper
In good working order to clear the driver's view.
Windshields*
Must be safety glass and may not be covered or treated with
any material that makes the windshield reflective or non-
transparent. Must be free of any stickers not required by law.
Side & Rear Windows* May not be composed of, covered by, or treated with
any material which has a highly reflective or mirrored
appearance and reflects more than 25% of the light (side
windows) or more than 35% of the light (rear window).
Tires
Should have a minimum tread of at least 3/32 of an inch or
greater, and no worn spots showing the ply.
*See FS 316.2953 and FS 316.2954 for details on window tint restrictions.
4 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Equipment NOT Permitted
Red lights visible from front or blue lights. For emergency/law enforcement vehicles only.
More than two spotlights, cowl or fender lights, fog lights, or other extra lights.
A siren, bell, or whistle.
A very loud muffler (heard from more than 50 feet) or one that emits smoke.
Signs, posters, or stickers on the windshield or windows (except if required by law).
A television that the driver can see.
Headsets/headphones worn by driver while operating a vehicle.
Bumper Height Requirements
Owners of automobiles and pickup
trucks are required to have both
front and rear bumpers mounted
within certain height levels. Height
limitations are governed by the
net shipping weight of the vehicle,
not the modified or altered weight.
The maximum allowable heights
between the pavement and bottom
of the front and rear bumper are:
Vehicle Weight
Front Rear
Cars < 2500 lbs.
22 in. 22 in.
Cars 25003499 lbs.
24 in. 26 in.
Cars 3500 lbs.
27 in. 29 in.
Trucks < 2000 lbs.
24 in. 26 in.
Trucks 20003000 lbs.
27 in. 29 in.
Trucks 30005000 lbs.
28 in. 30 in.
EMISSIONS CONTROL DEVICES
It is illegal to tamper with, remove, or cause not to
work any pollution control device on your vehicle.
Tampering will damage your vehicle and can
cause increased air pollution, lower gas mileage,
less vehicle efficiency, breathing difficulties.
Keep Your Car in Good
Condition
Brakes: Check to see that the pedal
stays well above the floor when you
step on it. If the car pulls to one
side when you use the brakes or if
you hear any scraping or squealing
noises, your brakes may need to be
repaired.
Lights: Check lights often, replace
burned-out bulbs and keep lenses
clean.
Tires: Inspect often for proper
inflation/tire pressure, even tread
wear, and damage.
Windows and Windshields: Keep
the glass clean inside and out.
Rear window: If the rear
window is covered by or treated
with any material that makes it
nontransparent, the vehicle must be
equipped with side mirrors on both
sides that allow the driver a view to
the rear of at least 200 feet.
Read your vehicle owner's manual!
It is an excellent resource for
information specific to your vehicle,
such as: what types of fluids your car
requires, what dashboard warning
lights mean, what your car services
intervals are, and more.
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 5
.................................................................................................PREPARING TO DRIVE: YOUR VEHICLE
Anti-Lock Brake System
Anti-lock brake system (ABS)
prevents skidding and allows drivers
to steer during an emergency
braking situation. ABS can help
improve vehicle stability, steering
ability, and stopping capability.
It is important to know if your
vehicle has ABS because it will
affect the way you should stop in an
emergency situation. Drivers with
ABS need to press down hard on the
brake pedal, hold it, and steer out of
danger. In an emergency situation,
the ABS automatically pumps
the brakes at a faster rate than the
driver could. Removing steady
pressure from the brake pedal or
pumping the brakes will disengage
or "turn off" the ABS. Drivers with
conventional brakes must pump
the brakes in order to stop in an
emergency situation where traction
is lost and the vehicle slides.
You can determine if the car has
ABS by looking for a lighted ABS
symbol on the dashboard right
after starting the engine, checking
the owner's manual, or asking the
dealer.
Trailers, Towing, & Load
Equipment requirements:
Trailer, semitrailer or pole trailer
weighing 3,000 pounds or less:

REARtwo reflectors, one at
each side.*

A brake light if the trailer or
load blocks/hides the brake
lights on the towing vehicle.
Trailer or semitrailer weighing
more than 3,000 pounds:

FRONTtwo clearance
lamps, one at each side.

EACH SIDEtwo side
marker lamps, one at or near
the front and one at or near
the rear. Two reflectors, one at
or near the front and one at or
near the rear.

REAR two clearance lamps,
one at each side, and two
reflectors, one at or near the
front and one at or near the
rear.*

Brakes that can be operated
by the driver in the towing
vehicle. They must be
designed and connected so
that they will automatically
stop the trailer if it breaks
away from the towing vehicle.
Pole trailer weighing more than
3,000 pounds:

EACH SIDEone side
marker lamp and one
clearance lamp.

REARtwo reflectors, one at
each side.*
*Every motor vehicle, trailer,
semitrailer, and pole trailer must
have two or more stop lamps (one
stop lamp is permitted on vehicles
built before January 1, 1972).
Drawbar or Towing Connection
The drawbar or towing connection
must:
be strong enough to pull all
towed weight;
6 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
not be more than 15 feet long
unless you are towing poles,
pipes, machinery, or other
objects that cannot be easily
taken apart; and
have a white flag at least 12
inches square attached to it if it
is chain, rope, or cable.
Securing the Load
You must not drive or move any
loaded vehicle on the highway if the
load is not secure. The load must
not be able to drop, shift, leak, or
otherwise escape.
You must use a close-fitting
cover when hauling loads which
could fall or blow onto the
roadway (e.g., dirt, sand, gravel).
Every truck carrying logs or
pulpwood must use lock chains
to securely fasten the load.
Projecting Load
A load that extends beyond the sides
of a vehicle and more than four feet
or more beyond its rear must be
clearly marked. During the day, red
flags at least 18 inches square must
mark the extremities of the load.
Requirements from sunset to sunrise,
and during any rain, smoke, or fog:
two red lamps on the back of
the load that can be seen from at
least 500 feet to the rear;
two red reflectors on the rear
that can be seen from 100 to
600 feet when directly in front
of low beam headlights, and
located to show the load's full
width;
one red lamp on each side of the
load, visible from at least 500
feet to show maximum overhang
of load.
If the trailer or motor vehicle is
transporting logs, pulpwood, poles,
or posts that extend more than four
feet beyond the rear of the load, you
must have one amber strobe-type
lamp equipped so that the lamp is
visible from the rear and both sides
of the projecting load. The lamp
must be operational and seen any
time of day or night.
Passenger vehicles must not be
driven on any highway with a load
extending beyond the fenders on the
left side of the vehicle or extending
more than 6 inches beyond the line
of the fenders on the right side.
Slow Moving Vehicle
Farm vehicles designed for operation
at speeds less than 25
MPH must display this
sign on the rear when
using public highways
(not limited access/interstates). Also,
these vehicles must only be operated
during daylight hours unless
equipped with the proper lights/
reflectors required for night driving.
2
PREPARING TO DRIVE: YOUTHE DRIVER
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 7
Driving an automobile is a huge responsibility. In order to drive safely,
you must be fully engaged: hands on the wheel, eyes on the road, and your
mind on driving. Anything that affects your physical or mental condition
can impair your ability to drive.
Physical Conditions
It is important that you get regular vision, hearing, and general physical
check-ups. Get treatment for illnesses and avoid driving when sick.
Remember that whenever you are prescribed medication, you should ask
your doctor or pharmacist how it can affect your driving.
Drowsy Driving
Drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. Do not drive
when you are tired. It is risky to drive drowsy because fatigue (being sleepy)
can:
slow down your thought processes and reaction time;
affect your judgment and vision;
impair your senses and abilities;
cause micro-sleeping ("nodding off") or falling completely asleep.
The two main causes of drowsy driving are lack of quality/quantity of sleep
and driving at times of the day when you would normally be sleeping.
Avoid driving drowsy!
Don't drive at times when you would normally be asleep.
Get a good night's sleep before you travel.
On long trips, take a break every 100 miles or 2 hours.
If you think you might fall asleepfind a safe place to stop and take a
nap.
Use the "buddy system" and switch drivers when needed.
Emotions
Emotions can have an effect on driving safely. You may not be able to drive
safely if you are worried, excited, crying, angry, or depressed. Emotions
can distract you from your driving because your mind is focused on other
issues, not driving. Your emotional state can alter the way you reactor
overreactto driving situations. Take time to calm down and get focused
before driving.
8 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Road Rage
Road rage is violent or visibly angry
behavior by a driver which can
result in crashes or other incidents
on roadways. Signs of road rage
include:
sudden acceleration or braking,
following too closely;
cutting off other drivers;
preventing other vehicles from
merging into your lane;
excessively hitting the horn or
flashing headlights;
shouting obscenities or threats;
making obscene hand gestures;
intentionally causing a crash;
getting out of a vehicle in an
attempt to start a confrontation;
using a weapon or threatening
to use a weapon; and/or
throwing objects from the
vehicle.
If another driver is threatening you
or intentionally driving dangerously
around you, remain calm and try
to put as much distance between
you and them as possible. Slow
down and let them pass. Do not
make eye contact; do not make
obscene gestures. If you need help,
call *FHP (*347) or 911.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is extremely
risky behavior that puts you and
your passengers in danger, as well
as pedestrians and bicyclists sharing
the road. Focused attention on
driving helps to prevent crashes.
There are three main categories of
driver distraction:
CATEGORIES OF DISTRACTION
Visual
taking your eyes off the road
Manual
taking your hands off the
steering wheel
Cognitive thinking about anything
other than driving
Texting involves all three types of
distractions, making it one of the
most dangerous of distracted driving
behaviors.** However, this is not
the only cause of distracted driving.
Other common distractions include:
talking on a cell phone;
watching an object, person, or
event outside of the vehicle;
reaching for an object;
interacting with passengers;
eating or drinking;
unsecured pets;
grooming;
adjusting radio or climate
controls;
lighting a cigarette;
daydreaming.
**It is illegal in Florida to operate
a motor vehicle while texting.
In 2016, there were more than 1,400
citations issued in Florida for texting and
driving. (Source: DHSMV.)
Florida Law states that a driver must move out of the left lane when being
overtaken from behind by another vehicle traveling at a higher rate of speed.
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 9
.......................................................................................... PREPARING TO DRIVE: YOUTHE DRIVER
Drinking & Driving
Alcohol reduces all of the important
skills necessary to drive safely, such
as judgment, reaction, vision, and
concentration. Alcohol is absorbed
into the lining of the stomach
and then passes directly into the
bloodstream and reaches your brain
within minutes after consumption.
A person's judgment is the first
thing affected after drinking an
alcoholic beverage.
Even one drink of alcohol can affect
your driving. Alcohol slows your
reflexes and reaction time, reduces
your ability to see clearly, and
makes you less alert. You will have
trouble judging distance, speed, and
movement of other vehicles. You
will also have trouble controlling
your vehicle.
If you drink alcoholeven just one
drinkyour chances of being in a
crash are much greater than if you
did not drink any alcohol. No one
can drink alcohol and drive safely,
even if you have been driving for
many years.
Because drinking alcohol and
driving is so dangerous, the
penalties are very tough. People who
drive after drinking risk heavy fines,
higher insurance rates, loss of driver
license, and even jail sentences. A
DUI (Driving Under the Influence)
conviction must remain on your
driving record for 75 years.
Do Not Drink and Drive!
Before drinking, designate a
sober driver.
If you are the designated driver,
do not drink. One drink is one
too many.
If you are impairedand did
not designate a drivertake a
taxi, call a sober family member,
or use public transportation to
get home safely.
Remember, friends don't let
friends drive drunk. If you know
someone who is about to drive
impaired, take their keys and
help them get a safe ride home.
Drugged Driving
Driving while impaired by drugs
is illegal and subject to the same
penalties as driving while impaired
by alcohol.
Besides alcohol, there are many
drugs that can affect a person's
ability to safely operate a vehicle.
This is true for many prescription
drugs, as well as over-the-counter
medications for allergies and colds.
If a person is taking medication,
they should be sure to check
the label for warnings about the
medication's effects prior to driving.
If they are not sure it is safe to take
the drug and drive, they should ask
their doctor or pharmacist about
any side effects.
Alcohol and drugs should not be
consumed at the same time. Mixing
alcohol and drugs often multiplies
10 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
the effects of the alcohol and any
other drugs. For example, one
drink, when you are also taking an
allergy or cold medication, could
have the same effect as several
drinks.
Illegal drugs and controlled
substances, such as marijuana, also
affect a person's reflexes, judgment
and alertness along with their many
other dangerous side effects. These
drugs can give a person a false sense
of alertness and self-confidence or
make a person drowsy and unable to
react to simple situations.
Older Drivers
As we age, physical changes require
us to adapt so that we can continue
to drive safely. Older drivers should:
get regular medical and eye
exams to identify physical and
mental conditions that may
affect driving.
ask the doctor or pharmacist
how medicationsespecially
when taken in combination
with other medicationsaffect
driving.
consult with a doctor about an
exercise program to maintain
the flexibility and strength
needed for safe driving.
make vehicle adjustments as
necessary. If it becomes difficult
to turn the steering wheel, get
a steering knob. If you have
difficulty turning your head to
check blind spots, get a larger
side mirror.
avoid wearing sunglasses in dim
or dark conditions.
avoid risky driving times:

Dusk, dawn, and nighttime.

Bad weather.

Rush-hour traffic.

Fast-paced highways.
Florida GrandDriver provides
information about various steps
drivers may take to maintain
independence as long as possible, as
well as actions one can take to stay
mobile in their community when
no longer driving. To learn more,
search for "Florida GrandDriver" on
the DHSMV website: flhsmv.gov.
Florida 511 Traffic Info
Always be prepared! The Florida
511 Traveler Information System is
a toll-free service by the Florida
Department of Transportation
that provides real-time traffic
information on crashes, travel
times, congestion, lane closures,
severe weather, and construction on
Florida's interstates, toll roads, and
other major metropolitan roadways.
There are four convenient ways for
motorists to receive traffic updates:*
Call 511 (English and Spanish).
Visit FL511.com.
Get the free "Florida 511" app.
Follow any of the statewide,
regional, or roadway-specific
feeds on Twitter.
*Use these resources before driving
or when pulled over in a safe place.
3
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 11
OCCUPANT PROTECTION
Seat Belts & Child
Restraints
Seat belts save lives, but only if
worn correctly every time you are in
a motor vehicle! You are far more
likely to be killed in a crash if you
are not wearing a seat belt. In a
crash, your seat belt keeps you:
from being ejected from the
vehicle;
from being thrown against other
passengers, your steering wheel,
or windshield; and
behind the wheel, where you
can control the vehicle.
Wear both the lap belt and the
shoulder belt. Wear your lap belt
around your hips and wear your
shoulder belt across your chest.
Your seat belt will not work if it is
tucked behind you. Airbags are not
a substitute for seat belts!
Florida law requires that all drivers,
all front seat passengers, and all
passengers under the age of 18
wear seat belts.* Children under
age 4 must be in a safety seat, and
children ages 4 and 5 must be in
either a safety seat or a booster seat.
Drivers will be charged with a seat
belt/child restraint violation if any
passenger under the age of 18 is not
restrained with the proper seat belt
or child restraint device. Passengers
18 years old or older will be charged
with the violation if they fail to wear
a seat belt when required by law.
In 2016, more than 224,000 Florida
teen drivers received citations, of
which 7,279 were for seat belt
violations. (Source: DHSMV.)
Each passenger on a school bus
equipped with safety belts or
restraint systems shall wear a
properly adjusted and fastened
safety belt at all times while the bus
is in operation.
Florida law exempts the following
from the seat belt requirements:
A person certified by a physician
as having a medical condition
that causes seat belt use to be
inappropriate or dangerous.
(Keep a copy of certification
while driving/being driven.)
Employee of a newspaper home
delivery service while delivering
newspapers.
School buses purchased new
prior to December 31, 2000.
Buses used for transportation of
persons for compensation.
Farm equipment.
Trucks of a net weight of more
than 26,000 pounds.
A seat belt (without booster
seat) may only be used for
children 45 years of age when
the driver is not a member of
the child's immediate family and
the child is being transported as
a favor or in an emergency.
*Some exemptions apply to cars manufactured prior to 1968 and trucks prior to 1972.
12 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
It is the parent or guardian's responsibility to supply the proper child
restraint when transporting a child in a vehicle for hire (e.g., taxi, bus,
limousine).
The best child seat is one that fits your child, fits your car, and that you
will use correctly every time. Read the car seat's instruction manual and the
portion of your vehicle's owner manual on car seat installation. In passenger
vehicles, children under 13 should be secured in the rear seat; airbags can
injure or kill young children in the front seat. Never place a rear-facing car
seat in front of an airbag.
Leaving Children Unsupervised in Motor Vehicles
Never leave a child unattended or unsupervised in a motor vehicle; it is
extremely dangerous and can result in the child's injury or death! Florida
law states that a parent, legal guardian, or other person responsible for a
child younger than 6 years of age must not leave the child unattended or
unsupervised in a motor vehicle for a period in excess of 15 minutes or for
any period of time if the motor of the vehicle is running, the health of
the child is in danger, or the child appears to be in distress. A violation
of this law is a second degree misdemeanor; a violation that causes great
bodily harm, permanent disability, or permanent disfigurement to a child is
considered a third degree felony.
4
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 13
TRAFFIC CONTROLS
Pavement Markings
Lines, symbols, and words are painted on roadways to
help direct drivers and control traffic flow. You must
know what the different lines, colors, and symbols mean
and obey them.
Unless you are turning, exiting a highway, or changing
lanes, always stay between the lines marking your lane.
Edge Lines
Solid lines along the side of the road mark the edge of
the pavement.
Single solid white line. Marks the right edge of the
pavement.
Single solid yellow line. Marks the left edge of the
pavement on divided highways and one-way streets.
White Lane Lines
White lane lines separate lanes of traffic moving in the
same direction.
Single broken white line. You may cross this line
to change lanes when it is safe to do so.
Single solid white line. You may travel in the
same direction on both sides of this line, but do
not cross the line unless you must do so to avoid a
hazard. Also used to discourage lane changes near
intersections.
Double solid white lines. Crossing a double solid
line/changing lanes is not allowed.
Yellow Lane Lines
Yellow lane lines separate lanes of traffic moving in
opposite directions.
Single broken yellow line. Stay to the right of the
line. You may cross this line to pass a car ahead of
you on the left only when it is safe to do so.
Double solid yellow lines. Vehicles moving in
either direction must not pass/cross these lines
(unless turning left when it is safe to do so).
Edge Lines
Broken White Line
Solid White Line
Broken Yellow Line
Double White Lines
14 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Double yellow linessolid on right ("your side"
of line), broken on left. Passing is not allowed in
this lane. (May turn left when safe to do so.)
Double yellow linesbroken on right ("your side"
of line), solid on left. Passing is permitted in this
lane when safe to do so.
Turn Lanes
Arrows are often used with white lane lines to show
which turn may be made from the lane.
Lane is marked with a curved arrow and the word
"ONLY": you must turn in the direction of the
arrow.
Lane is marked with both a curved and straight
arrow: you may either turn or go straight.
Two-way roadway with center lane: drivers from
either direction may use the center lane for left
turns; you must not use for passing.
Reversible Lanes
Some highways have reversible traffic lanes to help
handle rush-hour traffic. The direction of traffic is
normally reversed at set times each day. These lanes are
marked with special pavement markings, lane signals,
and signs.
Bicycle Lanes
Some roads have pavement markings that show lanes
specifically designated for the exclusive use of bicycles or
for shared use.
Exclusive bike lane. Solid white lines separate these
bike lanes from motor vehicle travel lanes. Often
marked with bike lane signs/symbols.
Shared-use lane. Marked with "sharrows." These
markings alert motorists that bicyclists may use the
entire lane, indicate to bicyclists where to ride, and
discourage bicycling in the wrong direction.
White Stop Lines
Stop lines show where you must stop for a stop sign or
red light. You must stop your vehicle before any part of
it crosses the line before the crosswalk.
Double Yellow Lines
Double Yellow Lines
(limited passing)
Turn Lanes
Center Turn Lane
Reversable Lane
Bike Lane
Crosswalks
Marked with solid white lines and sometimes filled
with white diagonal or perpendicular lines. Shows
where pedestrians should cross. Motorists must always
yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in a crosswalk.
Other Markings
Curbs are often marked yellow in no parking zones
near fire hydrants or intersections.
Yellow or white diagonal stripes mark fixed
obstructions (medians, no parking zones, etc.).
It is illegal to park in or drive through areas that
have pavement markings indicating fire lanes or
safety zones.
Sharrow
Stop Line & Crosswalk
Right-of-way rules tells motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists who
goes first and who must wait in different traffic situations. The laws
say who must yield (give up) the right-of-way.
Traffic Signs
TRAFFIC SIGN COLORS
Red
Stop. Do not enter. Wrong way. Yield.
Orange
Construction and maintenance warning.
Yellow
General warning. Advisory of unexpected
roadway conditions.
Fluorescent
Yellow Green
High emphasis warning of school, pedestrian,
and bicycling activity.
White/Black
Regulatory. Control traffic; set limits, or give
commands.
Green
Guide, or directional information.
Blue
Motorist services guidance. It is also used to
identify parking spaces for disabled drivers.
Brown
Areas of public recreation, cultural, and
historical significance.
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Traffic Sign Shapes
Octagon
Stop
Triangle
Yield
Diamond
Warn of existing or
possible hazards
Pennant
No passing zones
Crossbuck
Railroad crossing
Round
Railroad
advance warning
Pentagon
School advance/
school crossing
Rectangle
(Vertical)
Regulatory
Rectangle
(Horizontal)
Guide
Regulatory Signs
Regulatory signs control traffic; they set limits or give commands and are
enforceable by law.
Stop sign. You must bring your vehicle to a complete
halt at the stop line. If there is no stop line, stop before
entering the crosswalk. If there is no marked crosswalk,
stop before entering the intersection at a point near the
intersecting roadway where you have a clear view of
approaching traffic.
Four-way stop/4-Way stop. Traffic from all four directions
must stop. Vehicles proceed through the intersection in
the order that they arrived at the intersection; the first
vehicle to reach the intersection should move forward first.
If vehicles arrive at approximately the same time, each
driver must yield to the drivers on their right.
Yield. You must slow down and give vehicles crossing your
path the right-of-way. If the way is clear, you may move
forward slowly without stopping.
Do Not Enter. On one-way streets and roadways that you
are not allowed to enter. You may see this sign if you enter
an expressway ramp in the wrong direction. Turn around!
Wrong Way. You are going the wrong way on an
expressway exit ramp. Do not drive past this sign! Turn
around immediately.
16 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
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No Passing. You are entering a no passing zone.
Pass with Care. You are allowed to pass, but do so with
caution.
NO symbol. Red circle with red slash. The sign
shows what you are not allowed to do.
No U-Turn. You must not make a complete turn to go in
the opposite direction where this sign is displayed.
No Right Turn. You must not make a right turn at this
intersection.
Speed Limit. Your speed must not exceed the posted
speed in this area.
Speeding Fines Doubled. Posted in active school and
work zones. Fines will be doubled if you are cited for
speeding in this area.
Must Turn. You cannot go straight ahead. You must turn
either to the right or left.
One Way. You must travel only in the direction of the
arrow.
Keep Right. Stay to the right of the divider.
No Turn on Red. You must not turn right or left during
the red light. You must wait for the green signal.
Left Lane Must Turn. Traffic in left lane must turn left at
the intersection ahead (also Right Lane Must Turn).
Turn Lanes. At the intersection ahead, traffic in left lane
must turn left and traffic in adjoining lane may turn left or
continue straight ahead.
No Turns. You must not turn either to the right or to the
left at this intersection.
Center Turn Lane. The center lane is shared for left turns
in both directions of travel.
Begin Right Turn. When entering a right turn lane you
may encounter bicyclists traveling straight; you must yield
to the bicyclists.
Exit Speed. This sign lists the maximum recommended
safe speed for an exit ramp on an expressway. Slow down
to the posted speed.
Slower Traffic Keep Right. Slower driving traffic must
stay in right hand lane unless passing. Slower traffic must
move out of left hand lane when being overtaken by a
faster vehicle.
Restricted Lane Ahead. A diamond-shaped marking
shows that a lane is reserved for certain purposes or certain
vehicles, such as buses or carpool vehicles during rush
hour traffic. Also used in bike lanes.
Emergency Stopping Only. You must only stop for
emergencies.
No Parking on Pavement. If you stop, you must always
park off the pavement of the highway.
Parking by Disabled Permit Only. Parking in this space
is only for vehicles displaying an official disabled parking
permit and transporting a person with a disability.
Move Over. When approaching stopped emergency or
service vehicles with flashing lights, you must move over
a lane. If you can't move over, reduce speed to 20 MPH
below posted limit.
BEGIN
RIGHT TURN LANE
YIELD TO BIKES
Warning Signs
These signs give you advance notice of possible hazards. Drive with caution.
Reduction of Lanes. There will be fewer lanes ahead. The
right lane ends and traffic must merge left. Drivers in the
left lane should allow others to merge smoothly.
Divided Highway Ahead. The highway ahead is divided
by a median or physical barrier. Keep to the right.
18 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Divided Highway Ends. The divided highway on which
you are traveling ends 350 to 500 feet ahead. You will then
be on a roadway with two-way traffic. Keep to the right.
Merging Traffic. You are coming to a point where another
traffic lane joins the one you are on. Watch for other traffic
and be ready to yield the right-of-way when necessary.
Pavement Ends. The paved surface ahead changes to a
gravel or earth road.
Low Clearance. Do not enter if your vehicle is taller than
the height listed on the sign.
Slippery Surface. In wet weather, drive slowly. Do not
speed up or brake quickly. Make turns at a very slow
speed.
Dip. There is a low place in the road. Go slowly and be
ready to stop and turn around if the dip is filled with
water.
Bicycle Crossing. A bike-way crosses the roadway ahead.
Watch for bicyclists.
Pedestrian Crossing. Watch for people crossing the street.
Slow down or stop to yield for pedestrians.
Animal Crossing. The animal pictured on the sign is
common in this area; watch for animals crossing the road
particularly during twilight and nighttime hours.
Truck Crossing. Watch for trucks entering or crossing the
highway.
Narrow Bridge. The bridge is wide enough to
accommodate two lanes of traffic, but with very little
clearance. Stay in your lane.
One Lane Bridge. The bridge is wide enough for only
one vehicle at a time. Make sure the bridge is clear of
oncoming traffic before you cross.
Soft Shoulder. The ground on the side of the road is soft.
Don't leave the pavement except in an emergency.
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Right Curve. The road will curve to the right. Slow your
speed and do not pass other vehicles.
Double Curve. The road will curve to the right, then to
the left. Slow your speed and do not pass other vehicles.
Winding Road. There are several curves ahead. Drive
slowly and carefully and do not pass other vehicles.
Cross Road. A road crosses the main highway ahead.
Look to the left and right for other traffic.
Side Road. Another road enters the highway from the
direction shown. Watch for traffic from that direction.
Sharp Right Turn. The road will make a sharp turn to the
right. Slow your speed and do not pass other vehicles.
Hill/Downgrade. The road goes downhill ahead. Slow
down and be ready to shift to lower gear to control speed.
Advisory Speed Sign. The highest safe speed you should
travel around the curve ahead is the one posted. Advisory
speed signs may be used with any warning sign.
Speed Reduction Sign. Advance notice to upcoming
speed limit change.
Yield Ahead. Yield sign ahead. Slow down and be
prepared to stop at a yield sign or adjust speed to traffic.
Traffic Signal Ahead. A traffic signal is at the intersection
ahead. Slow down; poor visibility is likely.
Stop Sign Ahead. Slow down and be ready to stop at the
stop sign.
Two-Way Traffic Ahead. The one-way street or roadway
is about to change to two-way traffic; there will be
oncoming traffic.
Roundabout Circle. Provides advance notice of a
roundabout. Prepare to slow down and possibly yield to
traffic in the roundabout.
20 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Informational Signs
Green Guide Signs give information about directions and
distances. East-West routes have even numbers and North-
South have odd numbers. In Florida, mile markers indicate
your location on an interstate and match with exit numbers.
Blue and White Service Signs direct you to services, such as
gas, food, motels, and hospitals.
Brown and White Signs point out scenic areas, parks, and
areas of cultural/historical significance.
The Florida Department of Transportation's 511 Traffic
Information Service provides real-time traffic updates.
Traffic Control Signals
Traffic signals are placed at intersections to keep traffic
moving and to help prevent crashes. Drivers, pedestrians,
and bicycle riders must obey these signals except when an
officer is directing traffic. If a traffic signal is out of order,
treat the light/intersection as a four-way stop sign (p. 16).
Steady Signal Lights
Red Light
Come to a complete stop at the stop line. Remain
stopped until light turns green.
Don't stop too far away from the stop line. Some signals
change only when their sensors detect vehicles at the
stop line.
After stopping, you may turn right if there is not a NO
TURN ON RED sign and the way is clear.
You may turn left from a one-way street onto a one-way
street that has traffic moving to the left.
Before turning, you must yield the right-of-way to
pedestrians in the crosswalk and oncoming traffic.
Running (driving through) the red light is against
the law and is extremely dangerous!
Yellow Light
Warningthe light is changing to red.
Stop if you can safely do so. It is extremely dangerous to
be in an intersection when the light turns red.
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Green Light
Go, but only if the intersection is clear.
Yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk and vehicles still
in the intersection.
Approach at a speed that will allow you to slow down
if the light changes.
Red Arrow
Do not make the movement shown by the arrow until
the green light appears.
After stopping, you may turn right if there is not a
NO TURN ON RED sign and the way is clear.
You may turn left from a one-way street onto a one-
way street that has traffic moving to the left.
You must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in the
crosswalk and to oncoming traffic.
Yellow Arrow (steady)
The green arrow is ending or the light is about to turn
red.
Stop if you can safely do so.
Yellow Arrow (flashing)
Left turns are allowed in the direction of the arrow.
The oncoming traffic has a green light. Yield to
oncoming traffic and pedestrians.
Green Arrow
You may make a turn in the direction of the arrow.
If the red light is illuminated at the same time, you
must be in the proper lane for such a turn.
You must yield the right-of-way to vehicles and
pedestrians in the intersection.
Flashing Signal Lights
Flashing Red Light. Used at dangerous intersections.
Treat it like a stop sign; stop and proceed when safe.
Flashing Yellow Light. Used at, or just before, dangerous
intersections. Also used to alert you to a warning sign such
as a school crossing or sharp curve. Proceed with caution.

22 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Lane Signals
Lane signals are used:
when the direction of the flow of traffic changes during
the day.
to show that a toll booth is open or closed.
to show which lanes are opened or closed.
Red X. Never drive in a lane under the red X.
Yellow X. The lane signal is about to turn red.
Green Arrow. You may use this lane and you must also
obey all other signs and signals.
Ramp Signals
Ramp signals:
control the rate of vehicles entering an expressway.
alternate between red and green; you must wait for the
green signal before entering the expressway.
Pedestrian Signals
Pedestrian signals show words or pictures to indicate when
it is safeor notto use the crosswalk.
WALK or "walking person." You may begin to cross the
street.
DON'T WALK or "raised hand." Never enter the
crosswalk or begin crossing the street when the raised hand
is flashing or solid. If you are already in the crosswalk
when this signal begins flashing, quickly finish crossing the
street.
Countdown Signal. The countdown starts at the
beginning of the DON'T START (flashing hand phase)
and ends with a zero and a DON'T WALK (solid hand)
phase. Once the countdown starts and the hand is flashing,
it is no longer safe to enter the crosswalk.
Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB). Push the
button to activate the signal. Once the lights begin to
flash and the approaching traffic stops, use the crosswalk.
Motorists must stop and yield to pedestrians in crosswalk.
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Zones of Caution
School Zone Signs & Signals
School Sign. You are near a school. Watch for children at
all times, not just during school hours.
School Crossing. Slow down and watch for children
crossing the road. Stop if necessary. Obey signals from any
crossing guards.
Begin School Zone. Do not exceed the school zone speed
limit during indicated times or when light is flashing.
End School Zone. Marks the end of a reduced speed
school zone.
Railroad Crossing Signs & Signals
There are several signs, signals, and pavement markings
that indicate highway-railroad crossings. When you see
any of these, slow down and be ready to stop. Do not stop
on the railroad tracks or within 15 feet of the crossing.
Any driver or pedestrian approaching a railroad-highway
grade crossing must stop within 50 feet, but not less than
15 feet, from the nearest rail of the railroad when:
the warning devices are flashing.
the crossing gate is lowered.
a human flagger is warning of an approaching train.
an approaching train is clearly visible.
Pavement Marking. Markings may be painted on the
paved approach to a crossing before the stop line.
Advance Warning Sign. This is usually the first sign you
see when approaching a highway-railroad crossing.
Crossbuck Sign. These are yield signs; you must yield
the right-of-way to trains. A sign below the crossbuck will
show the number of tracks if there is more than one track.
Flashing Red Light Signals. At many crossings, the
crossbuck sign has flashing red lights and bells. When the
lights begin to flash...stop immediately! A train
is approaching.
24 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Gates. Many crossings have gates with flashing red lights
and bells. Stop when the lights begin to flash and before
the gate lowers across your road lane. It is against the law
to drive around or under a crossing gateeither down
or while being opened or closedand it is extremely
dangerous.
Remember:
Slow down when approaching railroad crossings.
Be prepared to stop especially when following buses or
trucks; many are required to stop at railroad crossings
even when gates are up/lights are not flashing.
If there is more than one track, make sure all tracks are
clear before crossing.
In heavy traffic, make sure there is room for your
vehicle on the other side of the track before crossing.
Trains often appear to be traveling at a slower speed
than they actually are, and they cannot stop quickly.
Don't try to "beat the train;" the train always wins.
Drawbridge Signs & Signals
Drawbridges are mechanical bridges over navigable waters
that raise or turn to allow marine traffic to go under them.
Flashing Yellow Signal. When the yellow light is flashing,
the drawbridge is in operation. Slow down and prepare to
stop.
Drawbridge Signal
Red. Come to a complete stop at the marked stop line.
The bridge is in operation and the roadway is closed to
all pedestrian and motor vehicle traffic.
Yellow. The light is about to turn red. Stop if you can
safely do so. The bridge is about to start operation.
Green. Proceed with caution.
Gates. Many drawbridges have gates with flashing red
lights and bells. Stop when the lights begin to flash and
before the gate lowers across your road lane. It is against
the law to drive around or under a crossing gate
either down or while being opened or closedand it is
extremely dangerous.
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 25
................................................................................................................................TRAFFIC CONTROLS
Construction/Maintenance Signs & Signals
Various traffic control devices are used in road
construction and maintenance work areas to direct
drivers and pedestrians safely through the work site. Be
prepared to reduce your speed and use caution when
directed to do so by a sign, flagger, or law enforcement
officer. Failure to do so is illegal and is dangerous to
those working in the construction zone. (Signs will
indicate where speeding fines will be doubled when
workers are present).
Construction and Maintenance Signs. The signs
usually diamond shaped and/or orange in colornotify
drivers of unusual or potentially dangerous conditions
near work areas.
Channeling Devices
Barricades, vertical panels, drums, and cones.
Alert drivers of unusual or potentially dangerous
conditions in highway and street work zones.
Guide drivers safely through the work area.
May be equipped with warning lights at night.
Stripes on barricades and panel devices slope
downward in the direction traffic must travel.
Flashing Arrow Panels. Used both during the day
and at night to give advance warning and directional
information when it is necessary to move to another
lane.
Flaggers. People who work in roadway construction/
maintenance zones to stop, slow, or guide traffic
safely through the area. Flaggers wear bright colored/
fluorescent vests or jackets and use red flags or signs to
direct traffic through work zones.
26 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
5
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 27
DRIVING SAFELY
Speed Limits
Obeying speed limits improves safety by reducing the probability and
severity of crashes. Speed limit signs tell you the maximum safe speed when
both weather conditions and visibility are favorable.
Speeding is extremely dangerous. The faster you drive, the greater the
impact or striking power of your vehicle:
When you double the speed of a car, you increase its force of impact
four times.
When you triple the speed of a car, you increase its force of impact
nine times.
Speeding is against the law. You must obey the speed limit and you are
responsible for knowing the speed limit when you are driving. (The
"speeding buffer" is a myth; you are not "allowed" to drive up to 10 MPH
over the speed limit.) Observe and obey posted speed limit signs. Speeding is
the #1 citation written for teens. (Source: DHSMV.)
Florida Standard Speed Limits
School Zones
20 MPH
Municipal, Business, or Residential Area
30 MPH*
Streets and Highways
55 MPH*
Rural Interstate
70 MPH**
Limited Access Highways (see definition pg. 34)
70 MPH
*maximum speed except where otherwise posted.
**on some rural Interstate highways.
Speed limits show the fastest speed you may drive under ideal conditions.
You are responsible for adjusting your driving speed to the weather,
roadway, and traffic conditions. For example, during a storm, you should
drive slower than the posted speed. The safest speed is the one that allows
you to have complete control of your vehicle and avoid collisions.
However, driving too slowly is also against Florida law. You must not drive
so slowly that you block or delay traffic moving at normal, safe speeds. You
should drive with the flow of traffic, within the speed limit. When driving
slower than the flow of traffic, keep right so others may safely pass. On
highways, when the posted speed limit is 70 MPH, the minimum speed
limit is 50 MPH.
28 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Braking Distance
END ZONEEND ZONEPerception Distance: how far your vehicle travelsin good weather
conditionsfrom the time your eyes see a hazard until your brain
recognizes it. Perception distance can be affected by mental and physical
conditions, medication, as well as visibility and the hazard itself. The
average perception time for an alert driver is second to 1 second.
Reaction Distance: how far you will continue to travel after seeing the
hazard until you physically hit the brakes. The average driver has a reaction
time of second to 1 second. At 50 MPH, this accounts for 55 feet
traveled.
Braking Distance: how far your vehicle will travelin good weather
conditions while you are braking. At 50 MPH, on dry pavement and
with good brakes, it can take about 158 feet.
High speeds greatly increase stopping distances and severity of crashes. The
faster you drive, the greater the impact or striking power of your vehicle.
Double your speed from 20 to 40 MPH, the braking distance and
impact are 4 times greater.
Triple the speed from 20 to 60 MPH, the braking distance and impact
are 9 times greater. (Stopping distance is equal to a football field.)
Quadruple your speed from 20 to 80 MPH, the braking distance and
impact are 16 times greater.
Total Stopping Distance: the total minimum distance your vehicle will
travelincluding perception distance, reaction distance, and braking
distanceuntil you can bring your vehicle to a complete stop. At 50 MPH,
you will travel a minimum of 268 feet...nearly the length of a football field.
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 29
.......................................................................................................................................DRIVING SAFELY
Smooth Stops
Stopping suddenly is dangerous
and usually caused by not paying
attention to the traffic flow or
following others too closely. Sudden
stops make it difficult for drivers
behind you to avoid a rear-end
collision.
Check mirrors and blind spots
for traffic to the rear.
Release accelerator to allow
vehicle to slow. Press brake pedal
to activate brake lights and use
a steady pressure for a smooth
stop.
Making Turns
You must use vehicle directional
signals or hand signals to show
other drivers that you are about
to turn.
Turn signals are also required
by law when changing lanes or
overtaking a vehicle.
You must give a turn signal for
at least 100 feet
BEFORE you
make your turn.
It is against
the law to use
your directional
signals to tell
drivers behind
you that they
can pass.
Hand signals
must be given
from the left
side of the
vehicle.
Turning a corner may seem to be a
simple operation, but many traffic
crashes are caused by drivers who do
not turn correctly.
1. Slow down to a safe turning
speed.
2. Move into the correct lane as
you near the intersection. The
correct lane for a right turn is
the right-most lane.
3. You must activate your turn
signal at least 100 feet before
making your turn. Allow time
for drivers around you to see
your signal before you move.
4. Obey NO TURN ON RED or
STOP HERE signs.
5. Yield to bicyclists when crossing
a bike lane and to pedestrians
who may be crossing your path.
6. Stay in the proper lane during
your turn. Yield the right-of-way
to vehicles and bicycles coming
from the opposite direction.
7. Finish your turn in the proper
lane. Turn right into the right
lane of the roadway entered. A
left turn may be completed in
any lane lawfully availableor
safefor the desired direction
of travel.
Never make last minute turns. If
you reach an intersection where
you wish to turn and are not in
the proper lane, drive to the next
intersection and then make the turn
from the proper lane.
*Note: Bicyclists may extend right hand and arm
horizontally from right side of bicycle for right turn.
30 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Three-Point Turn
Sometimes you will need to turn
around in a very small space. Use
a three-point turn only if the road
is too narrow for a U-turn and you
can't go around the block.
To make a three-point turn:
1. Move as far right as possible,
check traffic, and signal a left
turn. Turn the steering wheel
sharply to the left and move
forward slowly. Stop at the curb.
2. Shift to reverse, turn your
wheels sharply to the right,
check traffic, and back your
vehicle to the right curb.
3. Shift the vehicle into drive and
pull forward carefully.
Never make a three-point turn
or a U-turn on a curve, a hill, the
highway, or where there is a sign
that prohibits U-turns.
Intersections
Many intersections are marked
with stop lines to show where you
must come to a complete stop.
Always stop behind stop lines. After
a complete stop, you must yield
the right-of-way to all other traffic
already in the intersection and to
pedestrians. Move forward only
when the road is clear.
The first vehicle to stop should
move forward first (see page 16).
If two vehicles reach the
intersection at the same time,
the driver on the left yields to
the driver on the right.
At a two-way stop, the turning
vehicle yields to the vehicle
going straight.
Right-of-Way
Right-of-way rules tell you who goes
first and who must wait in different
conditions. The law says who must
yield (give up) the right-of-way. Every
driver, motorcyclist, moped rider,
bicyclist, and pedestrian must do
everything possible to avoid a crash.
Open Intersections
An open intersection is one without
traffic control signs or signals. When
you enter an open intersection, you
must yield the right-of-way if:
a vehicle is already in the
intersection;
you enter or cross a state
highway from a secondary road;
you enter a paved road from an
unpaved road; or
you plan to make a left turn and
a vehicle is approaching from the
opposite direction.
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.......................................................................................................................................DRIVING SAFELY
When two cars enter an open
intersection at the same time, the
driver on the left must yield to the
driver on the right.
Roundabouts
Roundabouts are circular
intersections with no traffic signal.
Roundabouts travel in a
one-way counter-clockwise
direction.
Drivers entering the
roundabout must yield to traffic
already in the roundabout.
If there is no traffic in the
roundabout, you may enter
without yielding.
Do not change lanes in the
roundabout.
Do not stop in a roundabout.
Signal before exiting the
roundabout.
Multi-Lane Roundabouts: have
the same rules as single-lane
roundabouts, however you will
need to choose the proper lane prior
to entering the roundabout. To go
straight or right, use the right lane.
To go straight or left, and to make a
U-turn, use the left lane.
Prior to entering or exiting the
roundabout, drivers must yield
to pedestrians in the crosswalks.
Bicyclists may take the lane in the
roundabout or use the sidewalk.
Driveways
Drivers entering a road from a
driveway, alley, or roadside must
yield to vehicles already on the main
road, as well as to pedestrians and
bicyclists on the sidewalk or in bike
lanes.
Traffic Lanes
On a two-lane highway you must
always drive in the right lane unless
you are overtaking and passing
(where permitted).
If the road has four or more lanes
with two-way traffic, drive in the
right lanes except when overtaking
and passing.
The center lane of a three-lane or
five-lane highway is used only for
turning left.
HOV Lanes. Some highways
reserve the left lane for vehicles
with two or more occupants or
hybrid/low emission vehicles.
These High Occupancy Vehicle
(HOV) lanes are identified by signs/
diamond pavement symbols, and
are separated by a striped buffer
zone. Vehicles may enter and exit
the HOV lane only at designated
points.
32 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Bike Lanes. Motorized vehicles are
not allowed to drive in bike lanes;
they may cross over them when
turning at intersections, but only
when no bicyclists are present in the
bike lane.
Red Reflectors. Red reflectors on
lane lines always mean you are
facing traffic the wrong way and
could have a head-on collision.
If you see red reflectors facing
you on the lane lines, you are on
the wrong side of the road. Turn
around or get into the proper
lane immediately!
If you see red reflectors on the
edge lines of the road, you are
going the wrong way on an
entrance or exit ramp. Pull over
immediately! Turn around when
it is safe to do so.
Safe Following Distances
Rear-end collisions are almost
always caused by drivers following
too closely. Maintaining a large
enough following distance (the
space between you and the vehicle
in front of you) greatly helps you
to avoid a collision with the vehicle
in front of you. The more distance
between your vehicle and others, the
more time you have to react. Keep
a minimum following distance of
four seconds during normal weather
and traffic conditions. (Increase
following distance during unusual
weather or traffic conditions.)

Determine your following
distance:
1. Watch when the rear of the
vehicle ahead passes a stationary
marker such as a sign or light
pole.
2. Count the seconds it takes you
to reach the same marker: "One-
thousand-one, one-thousand-
two, one-thousand-three, one-
thousand-four."
3. If you pass the stationary
marker before counting to one-
thousand-four, you are following
too closely.
4. Reduce speed and then count
again at another stationary
point. Repeat until you are
following no closer than four-
seconds.
Increase your following distance
in these situations:
Rain or when roads are wet.
Low visibilitydusk, dawn,
nighttime, fog, etc.
When being passed (more space
in front of your vehicle so the
pass can be completed safely).
Carrying a heavy load or pulling
a trailer. (The extra weight
makes it more difficult to stop
quickly/steer correctly.)
When stopped behind another
vehicle on an incline; it may roll
back before moving forward.
When following:

Motorcycles. The chances of a
motorcyclist falling are greater
on wet or gravel roads, or
metal surfaces such as bridges.
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.......................................................................................................................................DRIVING SAFELY
You will need extra stopping/
steering distance to avoid
hitting the bike/rider.

Emergency vehicles. It is
against the law to follow a
fire truck responding to a fire
alarm closer than 500 feet.

Vehicles required to come to a
stop at railroad crossings, such
as city buses, school buses, and
vehicles carrying hazardous
materials.

Vehicles with a blocked rear
view. Drivers of trucks, buses,
vans, or vehicles pulling
trailers may not be able to see
your vehicle when you are
directly behind them.
If your vehicle is being followed too
closely, slow down and keep to the
right.
Following Distance for Trucks
A truck or any vehicle towing
another vehicle must not follow
within 300 feet of another truck
or vehicle towing a vehicle. This
law does not apply to overtaking
and passing, and it does not apply
within cities or towns.
Blind Spots
Blind spots are areas near the left
and right rear corners of your
vehicle that you can't see in your
rear-view mirrors or with your
peripheral vision. Before you move
to change lanes on a highway or to
pass on any road, turn your head to
make sure these areas are clear.
Do not drive in someone else's blind
spot. Move forward or drop back so
that the other driver can see you.
The larger the vehicle, the larger the
blind spots. Large trucks and SUVs
have blind spots close to the rear of
the vehicle that cannot be seen in
rear-view mirrors. (See "No Zones"
on page 44.)
Passing
1. You must activate your signal
before moving into the left lane
to let others know that you are
about to change lanes to pass.
2. Stay a safe distance behind the
vehicle you want to passthe
closer you get, the less you can
see ahead.
3. Before you pull out to pass,
check blind spots and make sure
that you have plenty of time and
room to pass.
4. Tap your horn (day) or flash
your headlights (night) to let
34 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
the other driver know you are
passing.
5. Do not return to the right side
of the road until you can see the
tires of the vehicle you passed
in your rear-view mirror. Signal
when you are about to return to
your lane.
6. You must return to the right
side of the road before coming
within 200 feet of any vehicle
coming from the opposite
direction.
You should not attempt to pass
more than one vehicle at a time.
Passing multiple vehicles is
dangerous.
Stay within the speed limit. It is not
legal to exceed the speed limit while
passing.
Passing on the Right
Pulling off the roadway to pass on
the right is against the law. Passing
on the right is only legal when there
are two or more lanes of traffic
moving in the same direction or the
vehicle you are passing is making a
left turn.
You Must Not Pass:
where there is a single solid
line, or double-sided solid line
dividing lanes;
when the double-sided yellow
line is solid in your lane;
in Do Not Pass and No Passing
zones;
on hills or curves where you
can't see at least 500 feet ahead;
within 100 feet of a bridge,
viaduct, tunnel, railroad
crossing, or intersection;
when a school bus is stopped
and has its warning flashers on
and stop sign extended;
at crosswalks where a vehicle has
stopped to allow a pedestrian to
cross.
Being Passed
You must not increase your speed
while you are being passed. Move
to the right side of your lane to give
passing drivers more room and a
better view of the road ahead.
Limited-Access Highways
Limited-access highwaysalso
called expressways, interstate
highways, turnpikes, toll roads, and
freewaysare multiple-lane roads
with no stop signs, traffic lights,
or railroad crossings. Pedestrians,
hitchhikers, bicycles, animal-drawn
vehicles, and motor-driven cycles/
motor scooters (with 150 cubic
centimeter displacement or less)
are not allowed on limited-access
highways.
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.......................................................................................................................................DRIVING SAFELY
Entering & Leaving Limited Access/Interstate Highways
All limited-access highway entrances have three basic parts: an entrance
ramp, an acceleration lane, and a merging area.
When entering an interstate highway:
1. On the entrance ramp, begin checking for an opening in traffic. Signal
your intent to merge onto the expressway.
2. Increase your speed as the ramp straightens into the acceleration lane.
Adjust your speed so that you can safely merge into the traffic when you
reach the end of the acceleration lane.
3. Merge into traffic when you can do so safely. You must yield the right-
of-way to traffic on the highway. Do not stop in the acceleration lane
unless traffic is too heavy and there is no space for you to enter safely.
When leaving an interstate highway:
1. Get into the exit lane. Most exits are from the right lane.
2. Activate your turn signal to show your intention to exit.
3. Slow down in the deceleration lane. Check the posted safe speed for the
exit ramp.
4. Don't make last-minute turns into an exit. If you pass your exit, you
must go to the next one.
Begin
signal
here
Check safe speed
Slow down here
DO NOT
exit here!
DO NOT
enter here!
DECELERATION LANE
ACCELERATION LANE
TRAFFIC FLOW
TRAFFIC FLOW
MERGE
RAMP
RAMP
Begin signal
here
Adjust to speed in
acceleration lane
25
ENTER INTERSTATE HIGHWAY
EXIT INTERSTATE HIGHWAY
36 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Interstate Safety Reminders
Plan ahead. Know your exits. In FL, they
match the mile markers on the highway.
Drive in the right lane and pass on the
left. While in the right lane, watch for
cars entering the highway. Adjust your
speed or move over so they can enter
safely.
Never drive across or park on the
median.
Never stop on the pavement, shoulder,
or connecting ramp except in an
emergency. If your vehicle breaks down,
you must move it completely off the
pavement . (No more than six hours.)
Don't follow too closely. Rear-end
collisions are the greatest danger on
interstate highways.
Never back up on an entrance ramp or
exit ramp. The ONLY exception to this
is if you see a WRONG WAY or DO NOT
ENTER sign or red reflectors on lane
lines. You must back up or turn around.
Stop driving when you feel tired. Do not
risk falling asleep at the wheel.
Obey the Move Over law (page 44).
Parking
When parking on a public road,
move as far away from traffic as
possible. You must not park more
than 12 inches away from the curb.
If there is a roadside shoulder, pull
as far onto it as you can.
Always park on the right side of
the roadway unless it is a one-way
street. Park parallel to the curb in
the direction of traffic movement,
with right-hand wheels parallel to
and within 12 inches of the right
hand curb or side of roadway. Set
the parking brake and shift to Park
(automatic transmission) or Reverse
(manual transmission). Turn off the
engine and lock the vehicle. Florida
law requires that you take the keys
out of your vehicle before leaving it.
Always check traffic around you
before getting out of the vehicle so
you do not open your door into a
bicyclist or another vehicle.
Before you drive from any parked
position, make sure the roadway is
clear. Give the proper turn signal
before pulling away from the curb
and yield to other traffic.
Parking Lights
It is against the law to drive using
only parking lights (in place of
headlights).
Straight-in Parking
When properly parked, the vehicle
should be centered inside the
space with no part of the vehicle
extending out into the traffic lane.
Parking on Hills
1. Turn your wheels so that if your
car starts to move, it will roll
away from traffic or into the
curb.
2. Set the parking brake.
3. Automatic transmission: put
gear shift in Park. Manual
transmission: shift to Reverse
(downhill) or First (uphill).
4. Turn off vehicle.
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.......................................................................................................................................DRIVING SAFELY
Downhill.
Turn wheels
to curb.
Uphill
with curb.
Turn wheels
from curb.
Uphill
no curb.
Turn wheels
to right.
It is against the law to park:
On crosswalks
On sidewalks
In bicycle lanes
In intersections
On bridges
On overpasses
In tunnels
In front of driveways
By yellow painted curbs
NO PARKING or DISABLED
PERMIT ONLY zones
On the roadway side of another
parked vehicle (double parking)
On highway pavement not
marked for parking
Anywhere that blocks or creates
a hazard for other vehicles
Or within:

15 feet of a fire hydrant.

20 feet of an intersection.

20 feet of the entrance to a
fire, ambulance, or rescue
station.

30 feet of a rural mail box on
a state highway (8 am6 pm).

30 feet of any flashing signal,
stop sign, or traffic signal.

50 feet of a railroad crossing.
Backing Up
1. Check behind your vehicle
before you get in. Children and
small objects cannot be seen
from the driver's seat.
2. Place your right arm on the
back of the passenger seat and
turn around so that you can
look directly through the rear
window. Do not depend on
your rear-view or side mirrors as
you cannot see directly behind
your vehicle. Don't completely
rely on cameras/alarms; they
don't always detect small
children and animals.
3. Back slowly; your vehicle is
much harder to steer while you
are backing.
4. Whenever possible, use a person
outside the vehicle to help you
back up.
38 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
6
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 39
SHARING THE ROAD
Sharing the Road with Pedestrians
It is the motorist's responsibility to do everything possible to avoid colliding
with a pedestrian (person walking). When in a crosswalk or driveway,
bicyclists, skaters, and skateboarders are considered pedestrians.
Rules for Motorists
1. You must stop and remain stopped for pedestrians crossing a street or
driveway at any marked crossing, driveway, or intersection.
2. When entering or leaving an alley, driveway, or private road, you must
stop for pedestrians on the sidewalk.
3. Never block the crosswalk when stopped at a red light. Do not stop
with any portion of your vehicle overhanging the crosswalk.
4. Florida law prohibits you from overtaking and passing a vehicle that
is stopped at a crosswalk so that a pedestrian can cross the roadway. A
driver approaching a vehicle from the rear that is stopped at a crosswalk
must assume that a pedestrian may be crossing, even when none can be
seen at that moment.
5. Always stop before turning right on red and look both ways for
pedestrians in the crosswalk.
6. Come to a complete stop, yield the right-of-way, and use extra caution
when approaching:

a visually impaired pedestrian who is carrying a white cane with a red
tip or guided by a service animal.

mobility-impaired persons (using a walker, a crutch, or an orthopedic
cane or wheelchair) and pedestrians using a guide dog or service
animal.
children or any obviously confused or incapacitated pedestrian.
Right-of-Way rules tell you who goes first and who must wait in different
situations. And while the law only says who must yield (give up) the right-of-
way, every driver, motorcyclist, moped rider, bicyclist, and pedestrian must do
everything possible to avoid a crash.
Rules for Pedestrians
1. You must not walk on the roadway if a sidewalk is available.
2. When walking along a roadway without a sidewalk, always walk on the
shoulder on the left side, facing traffic.
3. Cross the road at intersections or designated crosswalks. Crosswalks at
intersections may be marked or unmarked.
40 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
4. You must yield the right-of-way
to vehicles if you are crossing a
roadway at any point other than
within a crosswalk.
5. You must yield the right-of-way
to vehicles in the crosswalk if
the crosswalk signal is red or
displays DON'T WALK.
Pedestrian Safety Tips
Never enter the street from
between parked cars. Always use
a crosswalk.
Stop at the curb or the edge
of the road if there is no curb.
Look left, then right, then left
again for moving vehicles before
you step into the street.
Be seen. Wear bright, neon,
reflective colors. Carry a
flashlight at night.
Don't text while walking.
Avoid wearing headphones so
that you can hear the traffic
around you.
Sharing the Road with
Bicycles
In Florida, the bicycle is legally
defined as a vehicle and has all
of the privileges, rights, and
responsibilities on public roads
(except for expressways) that a
motor vehicle operator does.
Bicyclists may ride out of the bike
lane in the travel lane for their own
safety due to narrow roads, to avoid
obstacles or pavement hazards, or
to prepare for a left turn. A bicyclist
may use the full lane even while
traveling substantially below the
speed of traffic if the lane is too
narrow for both a car and bicycle to
share.
Unlike motorists, bicyclists may also
operate on sidewalks, but they must
yield to pedestrians on sidewalks
and in crosswalks.
Rules for Motorists
1. Florida law requires that you
give bicyclists a minimum of
three feet of clearance, and use
caution/slow speed when driving
alongside or passing them.
2. On a two lane road, pass a
bicyclist as you would a slow-
moving vehicle, and only when
it is safe to do so.
3. At intersections, always assume
that bicyclists are traveling
straight unless they signal
otherwise. Yield to bicycles
just as you would to any other
vehicle.
4. When crossing a bike lane
to make a turn, yield to any
bicyclist in the bike lane and
make your turn behind the
bicyclist.
5. Do not follow a bicyclist too
closely.
6. At night, avoid using high
beam headlights when you see a
bicyclist approaching.
7. Before opening a car door,
check for bicyclists who may be
approaching from behind.
8. Avoid honking your horn and
startling a bicyclist.
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............................................................................................................................... SHARING THE ROAD
Rules for Bicyclists
1. You must obey all traffic
controls and signals.
2. If you are not traveling at the
speed of other traffic, you must
use the bike lane, and if no bike
lane is available, you must stay
on the right-most side of the
road.
3. You are allowed to use the full
lane when making a left turn,
passing, avoiding hazards, or
when a lane is too narrow for
you and a car to share it safely.
4. When operating a bicycle on a
one-way street with two or more
traffic lanes, you may ride on
the left-hand side of the road.
5. You must use directional hand
signals to show other drivers
that you are about to turn. (See
page 29.)
6. Never attach yourself or your
bike to any vehicle on the
roadway.
7. If you are riding on a sidewalk
or crosswalk, you have all the
rights and duties as a pedestrian.
However, you must yield the
right-of-way to pedestrians and
must give an audible signal
before passing pedestrians.
8. Between sunset and sunrise, you
must have a white light visible
from 500 feet on the front of
your bicycle and a red reflector
and a red light visible from 600
feet on the rear.
9. Your bike must have brakes
which can stop the bike within
25 feet from a speed of 10 MPH.
10. All bicyclists and passengers
under age 16 are required to
wear helmets that meet federal
safety standards.
11. If you are transporting a child
under age four, or who weighs
40 pounds or less, you must
use a backpack/sling, child
seat, or trailer designed to carry
children.
12. You must not leave a child in
a seat or carrier when you are
not in immediate control of the
bicycle.
13. If you are riding with others,
you may not ride more than two
side-by-side unless it is a path or
part of a roadway reserved for
bicycles. You must ride single
file if you and the other rider are
impeding traffic.
14. Do not wear headphones/ear-
buds while bicycling on the
roadway.
15. Do not ride a bicycle when
under the influence of alcohol
or drugs.
Bicyclist Safety Tips
No matter your age, wear a
helmet.
Keep both hands on the
handlebars.
On the roadway, check behind
you before changing lanes or
moving notably within the lane.
Be seen. Wear neon or
fluorescent colors when riding
and wear something reflective.
Don't text while biking.
42 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Motorcycle Awareness
Motorcycle and moped drivers
have the same rights and duties as
drivers of motor vehicles. Riders
committing traffic violations may
receive citations.
Rules for Motorcycle/Moped
You must be 16 years of age or
older to operate a motorcycle or
moped on a public road.
If under 18, you must hold a
learner's license for 12 months
with no moving violation
convictions prior to the issuance
of a Motorcycle Only license.
Operators of motorcycles
must complete an approved
motorcycle safety course and
get a motorcycle endorsement
on their driver license or a
Motorcycle Only license.
Operators of mopeds must
have the minimum of a Class E
driver license. No motorcycle
endorsement is required.
Operators of motorcycles must
wear a helmet unless they are
over the age of 21 AND carry
a medical insurance policy
providing for at least $10,000 in
medical benefits for injuries.
Motorcycles and mopeds:

must be registered annually
and have the proper tag;

must not be operated on
bicycle paths or foot paths.
Operators of Motorcycles and
mopeds: do not have to carry
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
insurance.
Tips for Motorists
You must never attempt to share
the lane with a motorcycle. The
motorcyclist is entitled to the
entire lane.
Watch for motorcycles and look
carefully before pulling into an
intersection or changing lanes.
It is difficult to gauge the speed
of a motorcycle because they
take up less field of vision which
interferes with depth perception.
They may appear to be much
farther away than they really are.
Do not follow too closely
behind a motorcycle; remember
that motorcycles have the ability
to stop more quickly than other
vehicles.
Motorcyclists often slow down
by down-shifting or rolling off
the throttle, thus not activating
the brake light.
Never pass a motorcyclist with
only a few feet of space. The
force of the wind gust can cause
the rider to lose control.
When your vehicle is being
passed by a motorcycle,
maintain your lane position. Do
not increase your speed.
Maintain at least a four-second
buffer zone between you and
a motorcyclist, and increase
space when encountering these
conditions: inclement weather,
gusty winds, wet or icy roads,
bad road conditions such as
potholes, gravel roads, and
railroad crossings.
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 43
............................................................................................................................... SHARING THE ROAD
UNPAVEDBARRIERORTWO LANE
MULTI-LANE PAVED ACROSS
Vehicles traveling in
both directions
MUST stop.
Vehicles traveling in both directions
MUST stop.
DIVIDED HIGHWAY
Unpaved space 5 ft+/raised median/physical barrier.
Vehicles behind bus MUST stop.
Vehicles traveling in the opposite
direction must proceed with caution.
School Buses
It is against the law for any driver to pass a school bus when the school bus
displays a stop signal.
On a two-way street or highway, all drivers moving in either direction must
stop for a stopped school bus that is picking up or dropping off children.
You must remain stopped until the stop signal is withdrawn and all
children are clear of the roadway.
If the highway is divided by a raised barrier or an unpaved median at least
five feet wide, you do not have to stop if you are moving in the opposite
direction of the bus. Painted lines or pavement markings are not considered
barriers. You must always stop if you are moving in the same direction as
the bus and you must remain stopped until the stop signal is withdrawn.
School Crossings
School area signs advise drivers of school zones and school crossings.
School zones and school crossings provide students with a safe zone when
they cross the road to and from school.
Crossing guards are the first to enter and last to exit a crosswalk to indicate
that pedestrians, especially children, are about to cross or are crossing.
When children or school crossing guards are present in a crosswalk,
you must yield and stop at the stop line and not in the crosswalk.
44 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Emergency Vehicles
Motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians
must yield the right-of-way to law
enforcement vehicles, fire engines,
and other emergency vehicles using
sirens or flashing lights. Pull over
to the closest edge of the roadway
immediately and stop until the
emergency vehicle has passed. Do
not block intersections.
Florida's Move Over Law
The Move Over Law protects law
enforcement officers, emergency
workers, tow truck drivers,
sanitation workers, and utility
workers stopped along roadways
while performing their jobs.
Move Over Law
On a Multi-Lane Roadway
You must vacate the lane closest to the
stationary law enforcement, emergency
vehicle, tow truck, sanitation, or utility
vehicle. (Signal your intention to
change lanes.)
If you cannot move over safely, you
must slow down to a speed of 20 MPH
below the posted speed limit.
Drivers who are not in the lane closest
to the stationary vehicle should be
prepared to allow those who are about
to move over into their lane.
On a Two-Lane Roadway
You must slow down to a speed of 20
MPH below the posted speed limit.
If the speed limit is 20 MPH or less, you
must travel at 5 MPH.
Funeral Processions
Motorists, pedestrians, and
bicyclists must yield the right-of-
way to funeral processions. When
the funeral lead vehicle enters an
intersection, the remaining vehicles
in the funeral procession may follow
through the intersection regardless
of any traffic control devices. All
vehicles in the procession should
have their headlights on (and may
also use flashing hazard lights) as a
signal to other drivers not to drive
between or interfere with the funeral
procession.
Public Transit
All drivers shall yield the right-
of-way to public transit buses
traveling in the same direction that
have signaled and are reentering
the traffic flow from a specifically
designated pullout bay.
Commercial Vehicles
Sharing the road with commercial
motor vehicles such as semi trucks
or travel buses means abiding by
different rules and safety strategies.
Rules for Motorists
1. Stay out of the "No Zone."
Commercial motor vehicles
have large blind spots in front,
behind, and on both sides of
the vehicle. Even though large
vehicles have several rear-view
mirrors, other vehicles will be
hidden from view if within the
No Zone/blind spot.
2. Don't tailgate; you'll be in
the rear blind spot and may
collide with the truck if it stops
unexpectedly.
3. If you are stopped behind a
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 45
............................................................................................................................... SHARING THE ROAD
The "NO Zone"
truck on an upgrade, leave space
in case the truck drifts back
when it starts to move. Also,
keep to the left in your lane so
the driver can see that you're
stopped behind the truck.
4. Don't use high beam headlights
when following a truck at night.
Bright lights will blind the
driver when they reflect off the
truck's large side mirrors.
5. When a truck is coming from the
opposite direction, keep to the
right to avoid a sideswipe crash.
6. Commercial vehicles often need
to swing wide to the left in
order make a right turn. Do not
drive between the commercial
vehicle and the curb they will
not be able to see you.
7. Never cross behind a truck
that is preparing to back up or
is in the process of doing so.
Remember, the size of most
trucks and trailers completely
hide objects behind them from
view.
Passing
When passing a truck, first
check to your front and rear,
and move into the passing lane
only if it is clear and safe to pass.
You must signal that you are
changing lanes, and let the truck
driver know you are passing
by blinking your headlights,
especially at night.
Pass trucks on the left side for
maximum visibility. Complete
your pass as quickly as possible
so that you do not remain in the
truck's blind spot.
Avoid cutting in too soon
when passing a truck. Large
trucks can't stop as quickly as
other vehicles. Be sure you can
see the cab in your rear-view
mirror before completing your
pass. (Truck drivers may flash
headlights to let you know it
is OK to merge back into the
lane.)
Avoid passing a truck on a
downgrade; the truck's weight
and momentum will cause it to
increase speed.
46 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
When a truck passes you, keep to the right side of your lane. Do not
speed up while the truck is passing.
Golf Carts
You may only drive a golf cart on golf courses or roadways that are
designated for golf carts. These roads
will be marked with appropriate
signs.
A golf cart must not be driven by
anyone under the age of 14 on
public roads or streets.
A golf cart must only be operated
during the hours between
sunrise and sunset, unless the
local government allows them
to be driven outside of those
hours (additional equipment is
required for night driving.)*
Golf carts may be operated only
on state roads that have a posted speed limit of 30 MPH or less.
You may cross state roads if the posted speed limit is 45 MPH or less
and only at an intersection with a traffic control device.
You can drive a golf cart on a sidewalk only if it is at least 5 feet wide.
You must yield to pedestrians.
You can drive a golf cart on a two lane county road in a city that
designates it may be used for golf carts.
All local and state traffic laws must be obeyed, including yielding the
right-of-way.
Low-Speed Vehicles
Low-speed vehicles (LSV) are four-wheeled vehicles with top speeds of
2125 MPH. Golf carts can be converted to low-speed vehicles and vice
versa. You must have a valid driver license to operate an LSV, and the LSV
must:
only be operated on streets where the posted speed limit is 35 MPH or
less.
be equipped with headlamps, stop lamps, turn signals, tail lamps, reflex
reflectors, parking brakes, rear-view mirrors, a wind shield, seat belts,
and a vehicle identification number.
be registered and insured with PIP and PDL (see pg.57).
Required Equipment for Golf Carts
Efficient brakes
Rear-view mirror
Reliable steering
Red warning reflectors on front and rear
Safe tires
*Required for Night Driving
Headlights
Brake lights
Turn signals
Windshield
7
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 47
SPECIAL DRIVING SITUATIONS
High beam headlights can reveal objects up to a distance of at least
450 feet and are most effective for speeds faster than 25 MPH.
At night, glare from oncoming cars can reduce your vision.
Night Driving
You will need to drive with extra care at night. You can't see as far ahead
and the glare from oncoming cars can reduce your vision even more.
Florida law says you must:
Use headlights between the hours of sunset and sunrise.
Not use high beam headlights within 500 feet of an oncoming vehicle;
use low beam headlights.
Not use high beam headlights within 300 feet of the vehicle ahead of
you; use low beam headlights.
Not drive using only parking lights in place of headlights.
Turn on your parking lights at night when you are parked on a roadway
or shoulder outside of cities and towns.
Follow these guidelines for driving at night:
Low beam headlights are only effective for speeds up to 2025 MPH.
Avoid "over driving" your lights (driving too fast for what you can see).
High beam headlights can reveal objects up to a distance of 450 feet
and are most effective for speeds faster than 25 MPH.
When leaving a brightly lit area, drive slowly until your eyes adjust to
the darkness.
Don't look directly at oncoming headlights. Use lane lines as visual
guides and look quickly to check the other vehicle's position every few
seconds.
Drive as far to the right as you can if a vehicle with one light comes
toward you; it could be a vehicle with a missing headlight.
48 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Flashing hazard lights must only be used while your vehicle
is legally stopped or disabled on the highway or shoulder.
(exception: funeral processions)
Low Visibility
Smoke from wild fires and
controlled burning, fog, and heavy
rain will affect your ability to see.
When driving in low visibility
conditions:
You must turn on your
headlights. Parking lights are
not a substitute.
Drive with lights on low beam.
High beams will reflect back
off the fog and impair visibility
even more.
DO NOT drive using flashing
hazard lights, which can only be
used when your car is broken
down/stopped on the side of the
road.
Turn on your headlights
whenever you turn on your
windshield wipers.
Use wipers and defrosters for
maximum visibility. Sometimes
it is difficult to determine if
poor visibility is due to fog or
moisture on the windshield.
Use the right edge of the road
or edge lines and center lines as
visual guides.
Eliminate all distractions in your
vehicle. Turn off the radio, cell
phone, etc.
Watch out for slow-moving and
parked vehicles.
Keep your windshield and
headlights clean to reduce glare
and increase visibility.
Rain
When you turn on your windshield
wipers, turn on your headlights. Do
not turn on emergency flashers.
Slow down! Roads become slick
during rainstorms and especially
if it has not rained in a while (oil
build-up on the highway). Wet
road conditions will increase your
braking/stopping distance, so be
sure to increase following distance.
Hydroplaning happens when your
vehicle slides on top of a thin layer
of water between your tires and
the road. When your tires are not
touching the road, you can easily
lose control and skid. Tires with low
air pressure or bad tread increase the
risk of hydroplaning and so does
speeding.
Brakes often become wet after
driving in heavy rain. They may pull
to one side or the other, or they may
not hold at all. If this happens, slow
down and gently push on the brake
pedal until your brakes are working
again.
If you come to a roadway that is
flooded, turn around and find
another way to go. Do not attempt
to drive through the water! It is
impossible to determine the depth
or current and your vehicle could
become submerged or swept away.
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 49
.............................................................................................................. SPECIAL DRIVING SITUATIONS
Animals
There may be times when an
animal suddenly runs in front of
your vehicle. Do not swerve into
oncoming traffic or off the roadway
to avoid hitting the animal. This
may result in a more serious crash
than if your vehicle collided with
the animal.
To reduce your chances of colliding
with an animal:
Use caution when driving at
dawn and dusk; this is when
animals are most active.
Be extra alert when driving on
roadways marked with animal
crossing signs and near woods
and water.
Scan the sides of the road and
watch for the reflection of
your headlights in the eyes of
animals.
Deer/vehicle crashes occur most
frequently from October to
December.
Slow down when approaching
animals that are standing near
the roadway, they may bolt out
or change direction.
Flash your headlights to warn
other drivers when animals are
spotted on or near the road.
If you have time to avoid hitting
an animal, reduce your speed,
tap your brakes, and sound
your horn. Deer tend to fixate
on headlights so flashing them
may cause the animal to freeze.
If there are no vehicles close
behind you, brake hard without
locking your wheels.
If collision is inevitable, do not
swerve to avoid the animal.
Keep your vehicle under control
and on the roadway.
Report the crash to the police if
it involves a large animal such as
a bear, deer, or farm animal.
Following Law
Enforcement Officer
Instructions
If you are stopped by a law
enforcement officer:
1. Safely pull off the roadway
immediately to the extreme
right, and clear of traffic.
2. At night, reduce your headlights
to parking lights and turn on
your interior light.
3. Stay in the driver's seat. Do not
get out of the vehicle unless
asked to do so. Keep your hands
visible. Sit calmly and follow the
officer's instructions.
4. Be prepared to show your driver
license, vehicle registration, and
proof of insurance when asked.
If a law enforcement officer is
directing traffic where there is a
traffic signal, obey the officer not
the signal.
50 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
8
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 51
HANDLING EMERGENCIES
Defensive Driving
Defensive driving is using safe driving strategies to prevent crashes. This
means that you alter your driving to fit the weather conditions, the way
you feel, and the actions of other drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Follow
these steps to avoid crashes:
1. Look for possible danger. For example, if you see school zone signs, plan
what you will do if a child runs or rides into the street.
2. Anticipate what another driver might do and make appropriate
adjustments. For example, you've noticed someone aggressively passing
and changing lanes as they approach you from the rear. You should
anticipate that they will probably pass you and cut you offslow down
and be ready to brake, if necessary.
3. Crashes happen at intersections more than any other place. Use extra
caution when approaching an intersection.
4. If a crash is unavoidable:

It is better to swerve off the road than into oncoming traffic.

It is better to drive off the road than to skid off.

It is better to hit something that is not moving instead of a vehicle
moving toward you.

Hitting a vehicle moving in the same direction as you is better than
hitting a vehicle head-on.

Hitting a "soft object" (e.g., a garden hedge) is better than hitting a
solid object like a tree or post.
Throughout Florida in 2016, more than 47,000 teen drivers were involved in
crashes, and there were 99 teen driver fatalities. (Source: DHSMV.)
Avoiding Rear-end Collisions
To avoid striking the vehicle in front of you, keep at least four seconds
following distance and increase following distance during bad weather or
heavy traffic. To lower the risk of someone running into the rear of your
vehicle:
Check your brake lights often to make sure they are clean and working
properly.
Know what is going on around you. Use the rear-view and side mirrors.
Signal well in advance for turns, stops, and lane changes.
Avoid sudden stops; slow down gradually and smoothly.
Drive with the flow of traffic (within the speed limit). Driving too
slowly can be dangerous.
52 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Breakdowns/Disabled
1. You must move the vehicle so
all four wheels are out of traffic
lanes as soon as possible. If you
can't move it, you must have it
moved as soon as possible.
2. If possible, park where the
disabled vehicle can be seen for
200 feet in each direction.
3. Turn on your emergency
flashers/flashing hazard lights.
4. Get all passengers out of the car
on the side away from traffic.
5. Call *FHP or another law
enforcement agency for
assistance.
Vehicle Approaching in
Your Lane
1. Sound horn and flash high
beams.
2. Brake hard.
3. Steer for the side of the road.
Right Wheels Off
Pavement
1. Take your foot off the gas pedal.
2. Hold the wheel firmly and steer
in a straight line.
3. Brake lightly.
4. Wait until the road is clear. Turn
back on the pavement at a slow
speed (signal your intention).
Overcorrection
Overcorrection is excessive steering
in reaction to an event or loss of
control of a vehicle. It typically
occurs when a driver steers too
sharply in an effort to avoid a
collision or driving off of the
roadway. It can result in a rollover
crash or steering into oncoming
traffic. Avoid overcorrecting! If you
find yourself unintentionally leaving
the roadway:
1. Stay calm.
2. Hold the wheel firmly.
3. Take your foot off the gas and
do not slam on the brakes.
4. Steer the car where desired.
5. If necessary, steer the car to a
safe place and stop.
Skidding
1. Take your foot off the gas pedal.
2. Do not use your brakes, if
possible.
3. Turn the vehicle's front tires in
the direction you want to go
(steer in the direction of the
skid).
4. If you are about to hit
something, see Emergency
Braking, below.
Emergency Braking
Many drivers learn that to stop
in an emergency situation where
traction is lost is by pumping the
brakes. While this is correct with
conventional brakes, drivers with
anti-lock brakes (ABS) must press
down hard on the brake pedal,
hold it, and steer out of danger. If
the driver removes steady pressure
from the brake pedal or pumps the
brakes, the ABS will disengage or
turn off.
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 53
..................................................................................................................... HANDLING EMERGENCIES
Vehicles can be equipped with two
different types of ABS:
Four-wheel (on passenger cars
and some light trucks). Brake
hard, steer, and keep constant
pressure on the brake pedal.
Rear-wheel (only on some
light trucks). ABS prevents the
rear wheels from locking up so
that the back end of the vehicle
does not skid. The front wheels
can still lock up and cause the
driver to lose steering control.
If this happens, let up on the
brake pedal just enough to allow
the front wheels to start rolling
again to regain control.
Brake Failure
1. If you do NOT have anti-lock
brakes (ABS), pump the brake
pedal hard and fast; if you have
ABS, skip to #2.
2. Shift to a lower gear.
3. Apply the parking brake slowly
and while holding down the
release lever/button. This will
prevent your rear wheels from
locking and your vehicle from
skidding.
4. Rub your tires against the curb
to slow your vehicle or pull off
the road into an open space.
Wet Brakes
1. Test brakes lightly.
2. Brakes may pull to one side or
may not hold at all.
3. Dry brakes by driving slowly in
low gear and applying brakes.
Jammed Gas Pedal
1. Take your foot off the gas pedal.
Disconnect the engine from
driving wheels by pressing the
clutch (manual transmission) or
shifting into neutral (automatic
transmission).
2. If necessary, pressdon't slam
brakes to slow the vehicle.*
3. Carefully steer to a safe place to
stop.
*Do not shut off engine unless
#1 and #2 do not work to slow
the vehicle. If you shut off your
engine, you will lose the ability to
steer the car.
Tire Blowout
1. Take your foot off the gas. Do
not use brakes.
2. Concentrate on steering.
3. Slow down gradually.
4. Brake softly when the car is
under control.
5. Pull completely off the
pavement/roadway.
Fire
1. Exit the vehicle.
2. Call 911 for assistance.
3. You should only attempt to
extinguish the fire if you have
a portable extinguisher and
the fire is small. NEVER apply
water to a gasoline or diesel fire.
4. If you can't extinguish the fire
get away from the vehicle! The
fumes are toxic and an explosion
is possible.
54 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Stalled on Railroad
Tracks
If your car stalls on the railroad
tracks, get everyone out
immediately and get away from
the car! (If you are stalled at a grade
crossing and the warning lights
begin to flash, 20 seconds is the
minimal amount of time that it
takes a train to reach the grade after
the warning lights begin flashing.) If
a train is coming, run in a 45 degree
angle away from the tracks, but in
a direction toward the train; you
will be less likely to be hit by your
vehicle or debris from the collision.
Call 911 or *FHP.
Emergency Notification System
(ENS): There is a blue ENS sign
installed at every highway-rail grade
crossing. This sign provides critical
emergency contact information
to reach the railroad responsible if
there is a problem at the crossing or
if something is blocking the tracks.
Submerged Vehicle
If you crash into a pond, river, or
other body of water, your vehicle
will only float on the surface for
3060 seconds. Get out of the
vehicle immediatelydo NOT call
911 until you are completely out of
the vehicle!
1. Unbuckle your seat belt.
2. Roll down window before the
car sinks. If you are able to open
the door, be aware that the car
will immediately fill with water.
3. If you are unable to roll the
window down, try to kick out a
side window.
There are many types of "escape
tools" available that will quickly
break a window. If you keep one
of these in your vehicle, be sure
it is within reach in case of an
emergency.
Power Outage
In circumstances where the power is
out and traffic signals are not active,
treat intersections as four-way stop:
Vehicles move through the
intersection in the order they
arrived (first to arrive is first to
move forward).
If multiple vehicles arrive at the
same time, the driver on the left
yields to the driver on the right.
Your Responsibilities
After a Crash
If you are involved in a crash that
results in damage to property,
injury, or death, it is your
dutyrequired by lawto give
information and render aid. Always
remain calm.
1. Stop and call 911,*FHP, or local
law enforcement.
2. Turn on flashing hazard lights.
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 55
..................................................................................................................... HANDLING EMERGENCIES
3. If anyone is hurt, you must get
help immediately!
4. If the crash is minor and your
vehicle is blocking the flow of
traffic, you must move it or
have it moved.
5. Exchange vehicle, witness,
and driver information (name,
address, phone number, license
plate number, driver license).
6. Take photos or sketch the scene,
showing vehicle crash locations.
A law enforcement officer will
complete a written report if the
crash involves a charge of DUI or
results in death, injury, or property
damage to the extent a vehicle must
be towed.
If the crash results in vehicle or
property damage and does not
require a law enforcement report,
you must make a written report of
the crash to DHSMV within 10
days. (This can be done at flhsmv.
gov.)
If you are in a crash with an
unattended vehicle or other
property, you must make every
attempt to locate the owner and
notify law enforcement. If you can't
locate the property owner, you must
leave a note including your name,
contact information, and license
plate (registration) number.
Leaving the Scene
It is against the law to leave the
scene of a crash involving property
damage, injury, or death!
Hit & Run Penalties
Leaving the scene resulting in:
Death
1st degree felony,
minimum 4 year
prison term.
Serious bodily
injury
2nd degree felony.
Injury
3rd degree felony.
All of the above include losing driver
license for 3 years minimum.
Damage to a
vehicle or other
property which
is driven or
attended by any
person.
2nd degree
misdemeanor.
56 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
First Aid
If you come upon a crash, call 911 and/or send someone for help. Don't
assume someone else has called; it is better for emergency services to get
multiple calls rather than none at all.
Do not put yourself in danger! Pull as far off the road as possible, and turn
on your flashing hazard lights to alert others. Be careful when exiting your
vehicle and stay out of traffic.
If someone is injured, apply first aid. However, don't move an injured
person who may have a neck or spinal injury. Don't attempt to remove
the helmet of an injured motorcycle or bicycle rider.
Treat For Shock
Persons who have been injured may go into shock. When someone is in
shock, all of the body functions slow down. Shock can be very serious and
can cause death. Treat the injured for shock regardless of whether or not
they appear to be in shock:
Keep the injured person calm.
Don't give them anything to drink.
Have the person lie flat and elevate their legs.
Cover the person with blankets to hold body heat.
Maintain an open airway.
9
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 57
YOUR DRIVING PRIVILEGE
Driving in Florida is a privilege you earn. In addition to the rules of the
road, you must also abide by the following laws in order to maintain your
driving privilege.
Insurance Laws
Florida law requires drivers and vehicle owners to maintain insurance to
cover costs in case of a crash. These laws include the No-Fault Law and
Financial Responsibility Law.
No-Fault Law
Before you register your car in Florida, you must show proof of Personal
Injury Protection (PIP) and Property Damage Liability (PDL) coverage.
PIP covers your injuries if you're in a crash, no matter who caused it. PDL
coverage pays for damage to other people's property that you caused.
Every owner or person in charge of operating a motor vehicle on Florida
roadways must:
provide proof of valid PIP and PDL insurance at the time of vehicle
registration;
have a minimum of $10,000 in PIP AND a minimum of $10,000 in
PDL coverage;
purchase the policy from an insurance agency licensed to do business in
Florida;
maintain the insurance continuously throughout the registration period;
always have proof of valid Florida insurance readily available when the
vehicle is being driven on Florida roadways.
You must comply if you own a motor vehicle that has been in the state
for 90 days (consecutive or non-consecutive) during the last 365 days.
You must maintain proper insurance or your driver license/license plate
registration can be suspended.
Your insurance company is required by law to notify the DHSMV when
you renew your policy, if you fail to renew it when due, or if the policy is
canceled either by you or the insurance company. If you don't renew your
coverage or it is canceled, DHSMV will send you a notice that you must
provide proof of new coverage. If you fail to provide proof of new insurance,
your driver license and license plate can be suspended for up to three years.
If you don't maintain insurance coverage throughout the vehicle registration
period, you must turn in the vehicle license plate to any driver license
58 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
service center. Turn in your plate
BEFORE canceling your insurance
to prevent the suspension of your
license and to avoid reinstatement
fees.
Always carry proof of insurance
when you or someone else is
driving your vehicle. Your insurance
company will provide you with a
Florida Insurance ID Card. You
must have the card (or electronic
proof on a smart phone) with you
when you're driving. You may
receive a citation if you are stopped
by a law enforcement officer and
don't have proof of insurance with
you. You'll have to go to court
to prove that you had insurance
coverage at the time you were
stopped or your driver license may
be suspended. If you don't have
proof and the judge convicts you,
your driver license and license plate
will be suspended. In order to lift
the suspension, you will have to get
insurance and pay a reinstatement
fee ($150 to $500).
If your driver license and license
plate have been under suspension
for 30 days or more, a law
enforcement officer can seize your
license plate immediately. The
officer may also take you to jail for
driving with a suspended license,
which is a first-degree misdemeanor
punishable by up to a year in jail
and a $1,000 fine.
If your driver license or license
plate is suspended for not having
insurance, you won't be able to get
a temporary license for any reason,
not even to go to work. Also, if you
show a law enforcement officer an
insurance card when you know the
insurance has been canceledor if
you falsify the cardyou may be
arrested and charged with a second-
degree misdemeanor.
DHSMV will always provide you
with an opportunity to prove
insurance coverage or have an
administrative hearing. When you
receive the notice of suspension
of your license you may request a
hearing; otherwise, one will not be
scheduled for you.
It's the Law
You must provide your driver
license, proof of vehicle
registration, and proof of
insurance when stopped by a
law enforcement officer.
Financial Responsibility
In addition to the required PIP
and PDL coverage, if you're in a
crash, you will have to prove that
you are financially responsible for
all damages you caused. You can
prove such financial responsibility
by either purchasing an insurance
policy from a company licensed
to do business in Florida, or
obtaining a Financial Responsibility
Certificate from the DHSMV. Get
more information about Financial
Responsibility Certificates at
flhsmv.gov.
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 59
...................................................................................................................... YOUR DRIVING PRIVILEGE
Depending on your driving record,
you may have to obtain additional
insurance beyond the basic PIP and
PDL requirements. For example,
Florida law requires you to have
Bodily Injury Liability (BIL)
insuranceand increased PDL
coveragewhen you are convicted
of Driving Under the Influence
(DUI). The coverage required
in such a case must be at least
$100,000 BIL for injuries to one
person, $300,000 BIL for injuries
to two or more people, and $50,000
PDL. This higher coverage must be
in effect for three years after your
DUI conviction. The higher limits
will no longer apply if you are not
convicted of another DUI or any
felony traffic offense during that
three-year period.
Other higher coverage limits
are required by law if: your
driver license is suspended for
accumulation of excessive points for
infractions; you cause a crash and
people were injured; your driver
license was revoked for Habitual
Traffic Offender status; or your
driver license was revoked for
any serious offense. The required
coverage for these cases are $10,000
BIL for injuries to one person,
$20,000 BIL for injuries to two or
more people, $10,000 PDL; OR
$30,000 combined single limits.
If you do not provide proof of
higher coverage limits, your driver
license and/or license plates will be
suspended for up to three years.
In addition, if you are the driver
or the owner of a vehicle involved
in a crash that is your fault,
DHSMV can require you to pay
for the damages before your driving
privilege is reinstated.
Vehicle Registration
The vehicle you own must have a
Florida registration certificate and
license plate. If a non-resident:
accepts employment or engages
in a trade, profession or
occupation in Florida; or
enrolls children to be educated
in a Florida public school, you
must obtain the registration
certificate and license plate
within 10 days after beginning
employment or enrollment.
You also must have a Florida
Certificate of Title for your
vehicle unless an out-of-state
lien holder/lessor holds the title
and will not release it to Florida.
To get your license plate and
registration certificate, you must
show proof of Florida insurance (in
most cases, you need a Florida driver
license to get insurance.) You must
also prove that you own your vehicle
by showing your certificate of title.
The vehicle identification number
(VIN) on any vehicle previously
titled or registered in another state
must be verified by one of several
designated officials before the
vehicle can be titled and registered
60 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
in Florida. VIN verification is
not required on any new vehicles
(regardless of whether purchased
in Florida or out of state), or new/
used mobile homes, trailer type
recreational vehicles (travel trailers,
camp trailers, truck campers, and
fifth wheel recreational trailers),
or trailers and semi-trailers with a
weight of less than 2,000 pounds.
Applying for Title, License
Plates & Registration
Apply for title, license plates, and
registration at any service center
in Florida. The cost of your license
plate will depend on the type and
weight of your vehicle. Your vehicle
must always have a current license
plate and you must always have
your vehicle's registration when you
are driving. If you buy a vehicle
from a dealer in Florida, the dealer
must apply for a certificate of title,
certificate of registration and license
plate for you. If you buy a vehicle
from an individual, you must
obtain the title from the individual
and apply for a certificate of title
in your name. You may apply for
a certificate of title, certificate of
registration, and license plate at the
same time. You cannot get a license
plate until you have a title to prove
that you own the vehicle. All first
time driver license applicants who
hold an out-of-state license should
apply for a Florida driver license
before they register their vehicle in
Florida (many service centers will do
both at the same time).
Renewal
Vehicle license plates and
registrations must be renewed each
year or biennially, on or before the
birthday of the first owner listed on
the registration form. Registrations
may be renewed up to 90 days prior
to the expiration date. Each time
you renew, you must prove that
you have the required insurance,
unless it's on file and electronically
updated. Registrations expire
at midnight on the birthday
of the first owner listed on the
registration form, except for:
mobile homes renew yearly by
December 31.
heavy trucks (>5000 lbs), semi-
trucks and semi-trailers renew
yearly by December 31.
vehicles owned by companies
and corporations and some
commercial vehicles renew
yearly by June 30.
Violations of the Driver
License Law
You can be put in jail or required to
pay a fine for the following offenses:
Altering your license in any way.
Unlawful use of your license.
Allowing your license to be used
by another person.
Making a fraudulent application
for a driver license or ID card.
Having more than one
credential (US driver license or
ID card).
Allowing an unlicensed person
to use your car, or renting a
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...................................................................................................................... YOUR DRIVING PRIVILEGE
motor vehicle to someone
without a license.
Giving false statements to an
officer or in a courtroom.
Knowingly giving false
information in crash reports.
Time Restrictions for
Minors (Driving Curfews)
Minors holding a learner's
license must be accompanied
by a licensed driver who is age
21+, and must only drive during
daylight hours. After holding
a learner's license for 3 months
you may drive until 10 pm.
A 16 year-old licensed driver
may not drive between 11:00
pm and 6:00 am unless driving
to or from work or accompanied
by a licensed driver who is age
21 or older.
A 17 year-old licensed driver
may not drive between 1:00 am
and 5:00 am, unless driving to
or from work or accompanied
by a licensed driver who is age
21 or older.
Littering
It is a crime to dump litter from a
motor vehicle in any amount on
any highway, road, street, etc. If
you throw litter up to 15 pounds
onto roadways, you can be fined
$100. You can be charged with a
first-degree misdemeanor, fined up
to $1,000, and receive 3 points on
your driving record, if dumping
more than 15 pounds of litter. The
court may also require you to pick
up litter along roadways.
Use ashtrays for cigarettes and litter
bags for trash while riding in motor
vehicles. Cigarettes that are tossed
out of windows can lead to fires.
Road Damage
It is against the law to damage the
roads by driving on the rim of a flat
tire or by any other means.
Driving Under the
Influence (DUI)
You can be charged with Driving
Under the Influence (DUI) if
you are found to be driving or in
actual physical control of a motor
vehicle while under the influence
of alcoholic beverages, controlled
substances, prescriptions, or over-
the-counter medications.
At the time of arrest, your license
will be administratively suspended if
you have a breath or blood alcohol
level (BAL) of .08 or above, or
refuse to submit to a breath/blood
alcohol test.
Implied Consent Law
You will be asked to take a blood
test, a urine test, or a breath test
if an officer has reasonable cause
to believe that you are under the
influence of alcohol or drugs while
driving. By law, you have agreed by
signing your driver license to take
these tests if asked. If you refuse
to take the tests when asked,
62 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
your license will automatically
be suspended for one year. A
second refusal will result in an 18
month suspension and a first degree
misdemeanor.
In DUI cases involving death or
serious injury, you will be required
to take the blood test without your
consent. The blood must be drawn
by a doctor, nurse, or other health
professional. Blood may be drawn if
you are unconscious.
Penalties for DUI
First DUI Conviction
Fine: $500-$1,000 [BAL .15 or
higher or minor in the vehicle,
not less than $1,000 or more
than $2,000].
Community Service: 50 hours.
Probation: Up to 1 year.
Imprisonment: Not more than 6
months [if BAL .15 or higher or
minor in the vehicle, not more
than 9 months].
License Revocation: Minimum
180 days.
DUI School: 12 hours.
Evaluation conducted to
determine need for treatment
for addiction.
Ignition Interlock Device: if
court ordered [if BAL .15 or
higher, or minor in the vehicle,
at least six continuous months].
Second DUI Offense/Conviction
Fine: $1,000-$2,000 [BAL
.15 or higher or minor in the
vehicle, not less than $2,000 or
more than $4,000].
Imprisonment: Not more than 9
months.
License Revocation: Minimum
180 days.
DUI School: 21 hours.
Evaluation conducted to
determine need for treatment
for addiction.
Ignition Interlock Device: At
least one continuous year.
Third DUI Offense/Conviction
Fine: $2,000-$5,000 [if BAL
.15 or higher or minor in the
vehicle, not less than $4,000].
Imprisonment: Not more than
12 months.
License Revocation: Minimum
180 days.
DUI School: 21 hours.
Evaluation conducted to
determine need for treatment
for addiction.
Ignition Interlock Device: At
least two continuous years.
Zero Tolerance
Any driver under 21 years of
age who is stopped by law
enforcement and has a BAL of
.02 or higher will automatically
have their driving privilege
suspended for six months.
Any driver under 21 with a BAL
of .05 or higher is required to
attend a substance abuse course.
An evaluation will be completed
and parents or legal guardians
will be notified of the results for
all drivers under the age of 19.
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...................................................................................................................... YOUR DRIVING PRIVILEGE
Florida Law states that if you are convicted of possessing, selling, or trafficking
in drugs, including marijuana, your driver license must be revoked. Additionally,
if drugs are in your vehicle because you are using your car to transport, sell, or
distribute drugs, or to assist in committing any other felony, then your car may
be seized and forfeited to the arresting agency as contraband.
Traffic Crashes
If you are charged in a crash you may have to go to court. The officer who
comes to the scene of the crash will file charges against any driver who
violated a traffic law. Those charged will have a chance to explain in court.
The court will then decide the penalty. Others who were present at the
crash may have to come to court as a witness.
If you are found at fault in a collision where anyone was injured and
transported to a medical treatment facility, or it is your second collision in
a two-year period, you will be required by law to attend a Traffic Collision
Avoidance Course.
Three Crashes in Three Years Law
If you were convicted of, or pleaded nolo contendre (no contest) to your
third traffic offense that caused a crash within 36 months, you must
complete a DHSMV-approved driver improvement course that includes
behind-the-wheel training and an assessment of your driving safety.
You must:
Complete 12 hours of an approved Advanced Driver Improvement
course (ADI);
Receive 4 hours of behind-the-wheel training from a Florida licensed
commercial driving school (CDS); and
Pass the extended driving test with a driver license examiner.
Failure to complete these requirements within 90 days will result in a
license cancellation.
Point System
There are a number of infractions that can cause the loss or restriction of
your driving privileges. You receive points for moving violations. If you
accumulate too many points in a certain period of time, your license will be
suspended and can be revoked.
64 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Violation (some examples)
Points
Unlawful speed 15 MPH or less over lawful or posted speed
3
Unlawful speed 16 MPH or more over lawful or posted speed
4
Unlawful speed resulting in a crash
6
Leaving the scene of a crash resulting in property damage of more than $50
6
Texting while driving
3
Texting occurred in a school zone (points added to the primary offense)
+2*
Texting resulted in a crash
+6*
Violation of traffic control signal/sign/device
4
Passing a stopped school bus
4
Passing a stopped school bus resulting in serious injury or death
6
Reckless driving
4
Driving during restricted hours
3
*points added to primary offense.
Length of Suspension:
12 points within a 12-month period30 days
18 points within a 18-month period3 months
24 points within a 36-month period1 year
The fine for exceeding the speed limit by more than 50 MPH is $1,000
for the first offense and $2,500 for the second.
Fines are doubled when speeding infractions occur within a school zone
or construction zone, with possible civil penalties up to $1,000 and you
can be required to complete a driving school course.
The driver receives the same number of points listed if the conviction
occurs out-of-state or in a federal court.
Mandatory Restriction for Minors
Any driver under the age of 18 who accumulates 6 or more points within
a 12 month period is automatically restricted for one year to driving for
"Business Purposes ONLY." If additional points are accumulated, the
restriction is extended for 90 days for every additional point received.
Losing the Privilege to Drive
Every driver who obtains a license must drive safely to keep it. If you break
laws or become an unsafe driver, your license can be suspended, revoked, or
canceled. The following table includes somebut not allof the reasons
one can lose the privilege to drive. Resolve your traffic citations in a timely
manner so that you do not lose your driving privilege.
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 65
...................................................................................................................... YOUR DRIVING PRIVILEGE
Your license will be SUSPENDED (temporary withdrawal of driving privilege) if you:
Make a fraudulent driver license application.
Allow your license to be used for a purpose that is against the law.
Are convicted in a traffic court and the court orders that your license be suspended.
Refuse to take a test to show if you are driving while under the influence of alcohol or
drugs.
Misuse a restricted license.
Earn a certain number of points for traffic offenses on the point system.
Break a traffic law and fail to pay your fine or appear in court as directed.
Fail to pay child support.
Fail to carry insurance on your vehicle.
Fail to stop for a school bus.
Use tobacco if you are under age.
Commit retail theft.
Are non-compliant with education requirements (school dropout).
Your license must be REVOKED (termination of driving privilege) if you are
found guilty of (or department records show):
Driving while under the influence of alcohol, drugs or other controlled substances.
A felony in which a motor vehicle is used.
Not stopping to give help when the vehicle you are driving is involved in a crash
causing death or personal injury.
Lying about the ownership or operation of motor vehicles.
Three cases of reckless driving within one year.
An immoral act in which a motor vehicle was used.
Three major offenses or 15 offenses for which you receive points within a 5-year
period.
A felony for drug possession.
Your vision is worse than the standard minimum requirements.
Racing on the highway.
Note: Forfeiting bail and not going to court to avoid being convicted of reckless
driving counts the same as a conviction.
Your license can be CANCELED (void and terminated) if:
Your license was issued in error.
You give false information or identification.
You fail to complete a required school.
66 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Penalties for Passing a Stopped School Bus
Penalties for passing stopped school bus include:
Moving violation subject to citation;
Must complete a basic driver improvement course;
Four points on your driver license; and
Minimum fine of $165, if you pass on the side where children enter and
exit, you will receive a minimum fine of $265.
When passing results in the serious injury or the death of another person:
Serve 120 community service hours in a trauma center or hospital;
Participate in a victim's impact panel session or driver improvement
course;
Six points on your driver license;
Suspension of license for a minimum of one year; and
$1,500 fine.
Administrative Hearings
If your driving privilege is suspended or revoked, you may be eligible to
apply for a hardship license or reinstatement. For eligibility information,
contact the local Bureau of Administrative Reviews (BAR) office, driver
license service center, or the DHSMV Customer Service Center.
If you are administratively suspended for a breath or blood alcohol level of
.08 or above or refuse to submit to a breath, urine, or blood test and wish
to appeal this suspension, you must apply for a formal or informal review
hearing at the appropriate BAR office within 10 days of your date of arrest.
A first time DUI offender who has never had prior DUI related offenses,
may be eligible to request a review of eligibility for a restricted driver license.
By accepting a restricted driver license, the driver agrees to waive the right to
a review of the suspension. To elect this option, the driver must appear at a
BAR office within 10 days of the DUI arrest, and request the waiver review
option and pay a non-refundable fee.
Disabled Parking Permit
If you have a mobility impairment, you don't have to pay parking fees on
any public street, highway, or metered space and may park in spaces reserved
for persons with disabilities. However, you must display a disabled parking
permit or plate to park in these designated spaces and the vehicle must
actually be transporting the person with the disability who owns the permit
or registration. Anyone who obtains or uses a permit that does not belong
to them can be charged with a second degree misdemeanor, punishable by
a $500 fine or up to 6 months in jail, and the illegally parked vehicle can be
towed and the permit confiscated.
F
H
P *
S
TA
TE
T
RO
O
P
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The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 67
The
PART 2FLORIDA DRIVER

10. Getting Your Driver License or ID Card

11. Driving School Providers

12. Driver License Testing

STUDY GUIDE FOR KNOWLEDGE EXAM
SAFE SECURE
CONVENIENT
Florida's NEW
Driver License and ID Card
In August 2017, the Florida Department of Highway Safety
and Motor Vehicles began issuing a new, more secure Florida
driver license and ID card. As of December 2017, the new
credential is available at all service centers throughout
Florida and online. Previous driver license and ID cards will
still be in use alongside the new credential until replaced or
phased out.
For more information visit flhsmv.gov/newDL.
68 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
10
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 69
GETTING YOUR LICENSE OR ID CARD
Definitions
Resident: A person who has his principal place of domicile in this state for
a period of more than six consecutive months; has registered to vote; has
made a statement of domicile pursuant to section 222.17, Florida Statutes;
or has filed for homestead exemption on property in this state.
Immigrant: A "Permanent Resident Alien" who is admitted to the United
States (US) as a lawful permanent resident. Immigrants are legally accorded
the privilege of residing permanently in the US and are issued immigrant
visas or adjusted to permanent resident status by the United States
Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS).
Non-Immigrant: An alien who seeks temporary entry to the US for a
specific purpose and who has declared the intention to stay only for a
temporary period of time.
US Citizen: A person born in the US, its territories, Naturalized, or one
who has obtained a Certificate of Citizenship from the Department of
State.
Who Needs a Florida License to Drive?
If you are a Florida resident, you must get a Florida license to drive a motor
vehicle on public streets and highways.
A non-resident (except a migrant or seasonal farm worker) who accepts
employment or engages in a trade, profession or occupation in this state,
or enrolls their child in a Florida public school must get a Florida license
within 30 days in order to operate a motor vehicle.
Exceptions for the Florida Driver License
You do not have to get a Florida driver license to drive in Florida if you are
a non-resident who is at least 16 years old and have:
a valid non-commercial driver license from another state or territory of
the US; or
an International Driving Permit from your country of residence
accompanied by a valid license from that country.
These people are also exempt (if they hold a valid license from their state/
country):
US government employee driving a non-commercial US government
70 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
motor vehicle on official
business.
Any non-resident working for
a firm on a contract for the
US government and driving a
non-commercial vehicle. (This
exemption is only for 60 days.)
Members of the Armed Forces
stationed in Florida, their
spouses, and dependents.
A licensed driver who lives
in another state and travels
regularly between home and
work in Florida.
Any non-resident attending
college in Florida.
Non-resident migrant farm
workerseven though they are
employed or place children in
public schoolsproviding they
have a valid license from their
home state.
Those who drive only vehicles
like farm tractors or road
machines temporarily on the
highway.
Florida Driver License
Classifications
The Class E is for drivers of non-
commercial vehicles. You must
have a Commercial Driver's License
(CDL) Class A, B, or C to operate:
any single vehicle with a gross
vehicle weight rating (GVWR)
of 26,001 or more pounds; or
a combination vehicle with a
gross combination weight rating
of 26,001 or more pounds,
if the trailer has a GVWR of
10,001 or more pounds; or
a vehicle designed to transport
16 or more passengers
(including the driver); or
any size vehicle which requires
hazardous material placards or
is carrying material listed as a
select agent or toxin in 42 CFR
part 73. Federal regulations
through the Department of
Homeland Security require
a background check and
fingerprinting for the Hazardous
Materials endorsement.
See the Florida CDL Handbook for
more information.
Requirements for Class
E Driver License
1. Be at least 16 years old.
2. Completion of Traffic Law and
Substance Abuse Education
Course.
3. Provide required identification.
4. Pass Vision, Class E Knowledge,
and Driving Skill exams.
5. If under age 18:

Must hold a learner's license
for 12 months or until the
18th birthday, whichever
comes first.

Must have NO moving traffic
violation convictions for 12
months from learner's license
date of issue, or may have
ONE moving traffic violation
(within 12 months of learner's
license issue) if adjudication is
withheld.
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........................................................................................................GETTING YOUR LICENSE/ID CARD

A parent, legal guardian, or
responsible adult 21 years
old or older, must certify that
the driver has had at least 50
hours of driving experience, of
which 10 hours were at night.

Must have parent or guardian
sign parental consent form.

Must be in compliance with
school attendance.
Learner's License
1. Be at least 15 years old.
2. Completion of Traffic Law and
Substance Abuse Education
Course.
3. Pass Vision and Class E
Knowledge exams.
Reciprocity
The Class E Knowledge and
Driving Skill exams are reciprocated
(waived) if you present a valid driver
license from any of the following:
United States (including
Territories/ Possessions)
United States Military
Canada*
France
Germany (driving skills test only)
Republic of China (Taiwan)
South Korea
Note: A vision exam is still required.
*Canadians can reciprocate
examination requirements by
surrendering their Canadian driver
license; if not surrendered, Class
E exams will be required. Licenses
from other states or US territories/
possessions must be surrendered
when the Florida license is issued.
Traffic Law & Substance Abuse
Education Course (TLSAE)
You must complete a TLSAE course
if you have never held or do not
have in your possession a driver
license in any state, country, or
jurisdiction and are applying for a
learner's or driver license.
Parental Consent for Minors
If you are under age 18 and are not
married, you must have your parent
or legal guardian sign your license
application in front of the driver
license agent or a notary public.**
The parent or legal guardian who
signs your application agrees to
take responsibility for your driving.
If the signer decides to rescind
responsibility, your license will be
canceled. To cancel the license,
the signer must write a letter to
DHSMV requesting to withdraw
their consent for the minor driver,
and include the minor driver's
complete name, date of birth, and
license number. Send the request to:
Bureau Chief of Motorist Compliance
Division of Motorist Services
2900 Apalachee ParkwayMS 87
Tallahassee, FL 32399-0575
**Married minors must show certified
marriage certificate. Emancipated minors
must show certified court order.
Physical & Mental
Requirements
You must list any physical or mental
issues that might affect your driving
on your license application. If
you have epilepsy, fainting spells,
72 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
dizziness, blackouts, or any other medical condition that could impair your
driving, you may be asked to have your doctor complete a medical report
form. This form can be requested through your local driver license service
center. The report must be completed by your doctor and submitted to
DHSMV before a license is issued. If you are diabetic and use insulin, you
may request that "Insulin Dependent" is indicated on your license.
Restriction Codes
If you have a restriction on your license and do not comply with the
requirements, you could receive a citation and have your license suspended.
Restriction Codes
A Corrective Lenses. This person must wear corrective lenses (glasses or contacts)
at all times when driving a vehicle.
B Outside Rear-view Mirror. The vehicle the person is driving must have an outside
rear-view mirror (left side) on the car.
C Business Purposes Only. Driving privilege is limited to any driving necessary to
maintain livelihood, e.g.,to and from work, on-the-job, educational purposes,
church, and for medical purposes.
D Employment Purposes Only. Driving privilege is limited to driving to and from
work and on-the-job driving required by an employer or occupation.
E Daylight Driving Only.
F
Automatic Transmission. This person can only drive a vehicle that has an
automatic transmission.
G Power Steering. This person can only drive a vehicle that has power steering.
I
Directional Signals. This person can only drive a vehicle that has mechanical
signals.
J Grip on Steering Wheel. This person can only drive a vehicle that has a knob or
grip on the steering wheel.
K Hearing Aid. This person must wear a hearing aid at all times while driving.
M Hand Controls or Pedal Extension. This person can only drive a vehicle that has
hand controls or a pedal extension.
N Left Foot Accelerator. This person can only drive a vehicle that has a left foot
accelerator.
P Probation-Interlock Device. This person can only drive a vehicle that has a device
that locks the ignition.
S Other Restrictions.
X Medical Alert Bracelet.
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 73
........................................................................................................GETTING YOUR LICENSE/ID CARD
Identification
Requirements
All applicants for a Florida driver
license or ID card must present:
[Step 1] Primary identification;
[Step 2] Proof of social security
number (which can be a military
ID); and
[Step 3] Two documents that show
your Florida residential address.
All documents must be original or
certified; photocopies or notarized
copies will not be accepted.
If your name has changed since
the issuance of the primary
identification, you will need to
present a name change document
such as a marriage certificate, court
order, or divorce decree to link
the names between the primary
identification and the name that will
be used on the driver license or ID
card. (See page 79.)
Please visit flhsmv.gov/WhatToBring
to obtain a personalized list of
requirements.
Step 1: Primary Identification
US Citizens must provide one of
the following original or certified
documents:
Certified US birth certificate,
including territories and the
District of Columbia. The birth
certificate must be issued by a
government agency. Hospital
birth certificates will not be
accepted.
Valid, unexpired US passport or
Passport Card.
Consular Report of Birth Abroad.
Certificate of Naturalization.
Certificate of Citizenship.
Immigrants must provide one of
the following original or certified
documents:
Valid Alien Registration receipt
card (Green card, Form I-151or
I-551, or Permanent Resident
Card).
I-551 stamp in a valid passport
with a valid US Visa affixed or
on an approved I-94.
Immigration Judge's Order,
with the customer's A-number,
granting asylum.
I-797, with the customer's
A-number, stating the customer
has been granted asylum.
I-797, I-94 indicating the
customer entered as a refugee
or another form from the
Citizenship and Immigration
Services, with the customer's
A-number, stating the
customer's application for
Refugee status is approved.
Canadian Citizens must provide
one of the following original or
certified documents:
Valid Canadian passport.
Original or certified Canadian
birth certificate.
Canadian Naturalization
Certificate.
Canadian Certificate of
Citizenship.
74 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Non-Immigrants must provide one
of the following original documents:
Valid Employment
Authorization Card issued by
the USCIS (Form I-688B or
I-766).
Proof of non-immigrant
classification provided by
USCIS or US Customs and
Border Protection (Form I-94,
not expired, with required
supporting attachments).
I-94s must be accompanied
by a valid Passport with a
valid US Visa affixed. Certain
classifications require additional
documentation. Some examples
are:

F-1 and M-1 classification
must also be accompanied by
an I-20.

J-1 or J-2 designation must be
accompanied by a DS-2019.

Refugee, asylee, and parolee
classifications must be
accompanied by additional
documentation (for example,
I-94 with picture affixed).
The following documents will only
be accepted with a supporting
document, including but not
limited to a passport, Florida driver
license or ID card, driver license
from any other state, employment
authorization card, employer
identification from home country,
identification from school or
college, social security card or other
citizenship and immigration services
document.
I-571 Travel Document/Refugee
Travel Permit.
I-512 Parole Letter Accepted.
IJO Asylum or Cancellation of
Removal Immigration Judges
Order granting Asylum or
Cancellation of Removal.
Immigrants, Canadian citizens, and
other non-immigrants applying for
a Florida driver license will be issued
a 60-day temporary driving permit
without a photo. Non-US citizens
applying for an original ID card will
be issued a receipt.
DHSMV will review the
identification documents provided
and electronically verify their
validity with the Department
of Homeland Security, Florida
Department of Law Enforcement,
and the Federal Bureau of
Investigation. If your identity and
legal presence is verified, you will be
issued a driver license or ID card at
the issuance office.
If proof of identity/legal presence
does not verify, the transaction will
require secondary verification. If the
secondary proof of identity/legal
presence verifies, the driver license
or ID card will be mailed to you; if
the secondary verification does not
verify, the driver license or ID card
issuance will be denied.
Immigrants and non-immigrants can
contact USCIS for more information
about obtaining identification/legal
presence documents.
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........................................................................................................GETTING YOUR LICENSE/ID CARD
Step 2: Social Security Number or Secondary Identification
Florida law requires the collection of your social security number. We will
electronically verify the information you provide with the Social Security
Administration. All applicants for a driver license or ID card must present
one of the following original or certified documents:
Social Security card.
W-2 form.
Paycheck containing your complete social security number.
1099 form (pre-printed by issuer).
Military ID.
The name on your social security document must match the name
that you wish to have on your driver license or ID card. If you recently
changed your name, you must update your records with the Social Security
Administration first.
If you have never been issued a social security number and you are a US
citizen or immigrant, you must provide one of the secondary documents
listed below. All non-immigrants must provide one of the following
secondary documents:
A driver license from the District of Columbia, US Territories, or one of our 50 states.
An ID card from the District of Columbia, US Territories, or one of our 50 states.
United States military or military dependent ID card.
School record stating date of birth that must contain the registrar's signature.
Transcript of the birth record filed with a public officer charged with the duty of recording
certificates.
An insurance policy on the customer's life that has been in force for at least two years and that
has the month, day, and year of birth.
Florida driver license record or ID card record.
Selective Service Registration (Draft Card).
Receipt copy of your last Florida driver license issuance.
Immigration Form I-571.
Federal Form DD-214 (military record).
Marriage certificate.
Court order, which includes legal name.
A Florida voter registration card, which was issued at least three months previously.
Florida Vehicle Registration certificate obtained from the service center where the customer's
vehicle was registered. Florida, or out-of-state registration certificate, if name and date of birth
are shown.
Parent consent form of minor, signed by the parent or legal guardian.
76 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Government issued out-of-country passport, driver license, or ID card.
Baptism certificate that shows date of birth and the place of baptism.
Family Bible record or birth announcement in a baby book.
Concealed weapons permit.
Step 3: Proof of Residential Address
All applicants for a driver license or ID card must present two documents
with their residential address:
1. Deed, mortgage, monthly mortgage statement, mortgage payment
booklet, or residential rental/lease agreement.
2. Florida Voter Registration Card.
3. Florida Vehicle Registration or Title.
4. Florida Vessel Registration or Title (if living on a boat/houseboat).
5. Statements (Contact your local driver license service center for
information about using statements).
6. A utility hook-up.
7. Automobile Payment Booklet.
8. Selective Service Card.
9. Medical or health card with address listed.
10. Current homeowner insurance policy or bill.
11. Current automobile insurance policy or bill.
12. Educational institution transcript forms for the current school year.
13. Unexpired professional license issued by a government agency in the
US.
14. W-2 form or 1099 form.
15. Form DS2019, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1)
status.
16. A letter from a homeless shelter, transitional service provider, or halfway
house verifying that the customer resides at the shelter address.
17. Utility bills, mail from financial institutions; including checking,
savings, or investment account statements.
18. Mail from federal, state, county or city government agencies (including
city and county agencies).
19. Transients Sexual Offender/Predator/Career Offender: FDLE
Registration Form completed by local sheriff 's department.
Identification (ID) Cards
If you need an identification (ID) card, you can apply at any driver license
service center. Persons holding a driver license who wish to obtain a Florida
ID card must surrender their driver license. You are prohibited from
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........................................................................................................GETTING YOUR LICENSE/ID CARD
holding both a driver license and an
ID card at the same time. To obtain
an ID card, you must:
1. Be 5 years of age or older. (Any
person, regardless of age, can be
issued an ID card if applying for
a disabled parking permit.)
2. Present required identification,
proof of your Social Security
number, and proof of residential
address.
ID cards issued to persons 514
years of age will be valid for four
years; all others will be valid for
eight years.
ID Cards for Homeless Persons
If you are homeless, you can get
an ID card at no cost. You must
provide a current letter from a
local homeless shelter verifying
that you are homeless and meet
the identification documentation
requirements.
ID Cards for Persons at or Below
Poverty Level
You can get an ID card at no cost, as
long as you meet the identification
documentation requirements
and provide one of the following
documents:
Tax return from last year with
gross income that meets 100%
federal poverty level.
Proof of enrollment in Access,
the Department of Children
and Families' Florida benefits
program.
License Renewal
Class E driver licenses are valid for
six to eight years. Expiration dates
may vary for license renewals issued
to non-immigrants.
Your license may not be renewed if:
You are not eligible to receive a
license.
You did not answer a summons
which involved a traffic
violation.
Your driver license is suspended,
revoked, or canceled.
You do not present the required
documentation.
Renewal Issuance
Requirements
1. Present your old driver license.
2. Pass a vision test.
3. If you have changed your
address, you will need to provide
two approved proof of address
documents with your new
address.
4. If your name has changed, you
will need to provide approved
documents establishing your
new name.
Primary identification, proof of
social security number, and two
proofs of residential address (pages
7376) are required if you have not
been issued a Florida driver license
or ID card in a field office since
January 1, 2010.
Any non-immigrant holding a
driver license or ID card who needs
78 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
a renewal or replacement driver
license or ID card must apply in
person.
Renewing Online
If you are a US citizen or
immigrant, you can renew your
driver license online at GoRenew.
com. You are not eligible for online
renewal if:
Your previous renewal was by
phone, mail, or online.
You hold a commercial driver
license.
You are not a US citizen or
permanent resident.
Your driving privilege is
suspended, revoked, or canceled
and you want an ID card.
You are replacing your driver
license with an ID card.
After your request is processed,
you will receive a six or eight year
license. Florida law requires that
you destroy your old driver license
after receiving the new license.
Application for renewal received
after the license expiration date
(midnight of your birthday) requires
a $15 late fee.
Drivers 80 Years Old and Older
All drivers who are 80 years of
age or older and who are in the
process of renewing their driver
license are required to pass a vision
test. The test may be administered
at a driver license service center
at no additional charge or by
your Florida licensed health care
practitioner, such as your medical
doctor, osteopath, or optometrist.
A vision examination report must
be completed and submitted to
DHSMV if your vision test is
administered by your doctor. Once
it is filed, you will then be able to
renew online or by mail.
Should you elect to have your
vision tested at a local driver license
service center, please schedule
an appointment so that we can
serve you more efficiently. Upon
passing the vision screening, you
can complete the renewal process.
However, if a problem is detected,
you will be referred to your eye
doctor for follow-up, prior to being
able to renew.
License/ID Card
Replacement
If your driver license or ID card
is lost or stolen, apply for a
replacement immediately. A
replacement can be obtained at
a driver license service center or
online at GoRenew.com.
If the card was stolen and you
provide a copy of the police report
(in person), the replacement fee
is waived as long as you are not
making any changes to the card,
otherwise there is a replacement fee.
Replacement Requirements
Primary identification, proof of
social security number, and two
proofs of residential address are
required if you have not been issued
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........................................................................................................GETTING YOUR LICENSE/ID CARD
a Florida driver license or ID card in
a field office since January 1, 2010.
If you have changed your
address, you will need to provide
two approved proof of address
documents.
If your name has changed,
you will need to provide
the approved documents
establishing your new name.
Change of Address
You must obtain a new license
within 30 calendar days of
any change to your mailing or
residential address. You may
change the address on your driver
license or ID card by:
1. Visiting GoRenew.com.
2. Visiting your local driver license
service center.
After receiving the new license,
destroy your old license as required
by Florida law.
If you fail to report a change of
address you may not receive your
motor vehicle registration renewal
or your driver license renewal.
If you are pulled over by law
enforcement and the address on
your driver license is incorrect, you
may receive a citation.
Name Changes
If your name has changed and you
would like your name to appear
on your driver license or ID card
differently than it appears on your
primary identification, you will need:
To present an original or
certified government issued
marriage certificate, divorce
decree, or court order as a name
change document.
To have your name changed on
your social security card.
Immigrants and Non-
Immigrants must have
your name changed on your
United States Citizenship
and Immigration Services
documents before you can
change your name on your
Florida driver license or ID card.
Canadian Citizens must have
your name changed on your
Canadian passport before
applying for a name change on
your driver license or ID card.
Veterans
Veteran Designation on Driver
License or ID Card
Any honorably discharged US
veteran may have the designation
"Veteran" placed on their driver
license/ID card. The veteran will
need to provide a copy of their
DD214 or other approved discharge
document at the time of issuance.
The Veteran designation may be
added for a one-time fee of $1.00
and applicable driver license or ID
card fees, if the veteran is requesting
a driver license or ID card that is:
original
renewal
replacement with changes or
replacement of a lost license/ID
Veterans requesting a replacement
credential for the sole purpose of
80 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
adding this designation (no other
changes) may receive replacement
for a total fee of $3.00. (The
replacement driver license or ID
card fee is waived.)However, if the
transaction is completed in a tax
collector office, tax collector service
fees will apply.
Exempt Fees for 100% Disabled
US Veterans
Any veteran honorably discharged
from the Armed Forces who was
issued a valid ID card by the
Department of Veterans Affairs, or
a letter of disability determination
from the Veterans Administration
and has been determined by the
Veterans Administration to have a
100% service-connected disability,
is exempt from paying certain driver
license fees such as initial license fees
and renewal fees. All ID card fees
are exempt.
Selective Service
State law requires any male who
is a US citizen or immigrant, who
is at least 18 years old but less
than 26 years old, to comply with
Federal Selective Service System
requirements when applying to
receive a driver license, a learner's
license, a commercial driver's
license, an ID card, or a renewal or
replacement card or license.
Sexual Offenders &
Sexual Predators
Within 48 hours after completing
the required initial registration as a
sexual predator or sexual offender
in Florida, all sexual predators
and sexual offenders who are not
incarcerated, including those who
are under the supervision of the
Florida Department of Corrections,
shall register in person at a driver
license service center.
The sexual predator or sexual
offender must identify him or
herself as such and provide their
place of permanent or temporary
residence. Post Office box numbers
may not be used in place of a
physical residential address.
Sexual offenders will have
"943.0435 F.S." printed on the
front of their driver license or ID
card. Sexual predators will have
"SEXUAL PREDATOR" printed
on the front of their driver license or
ID card.
Sexual predators and offenders
must report in person to a driver
license service center every time
their license or ID card is subject to
renewal and within 48 hours after
any change in name or address.
Career Offenders
Career offenders are certain persons
who are designated as habitual
violent felony offenders, violent
career criminals, or three-time
violent felony offenders.
Within two working days after
completing the required registration
as a career offender in Florida,
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 81
........................................................................................................GETTING YOUR LICENSE/ID CARD
all career offenders who are not
incarcerated, including those who
are under the supervision of the
Florida Department of Corrections,
shall register in person at the driver
license service center.
Career offenders must report in
person to the driver license service
center every time their license or ID
card is subject to renewal and within
two working days after any change
in name or address.
Emergency Contact
Information
If you have a Florida driver license
or ID, register your emergency
contact information at the DHSMV
website flhsmv.gov. This provides
law enforcement with an immediate
contact in case you are involved in
an emergency.
Florida Organ & Tissue
Donor Program
Donate Life Florida is the non-
profit organization that oversees the
state's organ, eye, and tissue donor
registry. The Joshua Abbott Organ
& Tissue Donor Registry allows
Floridians to join the state's organ
and tissue donor registry when
obtaining/renewing their license at a
local driver license service center.
DonateLifeFlorida.org.
1-877-FL-SHARE
Voluntary Contributions
When you are applying for a
driver license or ID card you
may voluntarily contribute to the
following special trust funds:
ACG Traffic Safety Foundation
Autism Services and Supports
Children's Hearing Help Fund
Disabled American Veterans
End Breast Cancer
Family First
Florida Council of the Blind
Health Care Trust Fund
Hearing Research Institute Inc.
Juvenile Diabetes Foundation Intl
League Against Cancer
Prevent Blindness Florida
Prevent Child Sexual Abuse
Ronald McDonald House
Senior Vision Services
State Homes for Veterans Trust Fund
Stop Heart Disease
Support Our Troops
The ARC of Florida
82 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
FEES
Fees for License/ID Card
Initial license fee for first Florida license .................................................................$48
Learner's license (original) .......................................................................................$48
Class E driver license renewal..................................................................................$48
Learner's license renewal.........................................................................................$48
Replacement license ................................................................................................$25
ID card (original) .......................................................................................................$25
ID card (replacement or renewal) ............................................................................$25
Delinquent fee for renewals after expiration date ..................................................$15
Other Fees
Written re-exams (Class E Knowledge Exam) .........................................................$10
Driving skills re-tests ................................................................................................$20
Veteran designation (with license fee) ......................................................................$1
Veteran designation (with no license fee) .................................................................$3
Motorcycle endorsement ...........................................................................................$7
Tax collector service fee (for services provided at a tax collector office) .......... $ 6.25
Reinstatement Fees
Administrative fee for insurance fraud ..................................................................$180
Administrative fee alcohol & drug-related offenses .............................................$130
After a license has been revoked .............................................................................$75
After a license has been suspended ........................................................................$45
Suspension for failure to pay or appear for a traffic citation .................................$60
Suspension for failure to pay child support ...........................................................$60
Suspension for failure to pay court financial obligations ......................................$60
Worthless checks ......................................................................................................$55
Insurance Reinstatement Fees
Failure to maintain liability insurance ....................................................................$15
Failure to maintain PIP insurance:
(1st suspension) .....................................................................................................$150
(2nd suspension) ....................................................................................................$250
(3rd suspension) .....................................................................................................$500
(1st suspension resulting from a DUI conviction) .............................................$150
(2nd suspension resulting from a DUI conviction) ...........................................$250
(3rd suspension resulting from a DUI conviction) ............................................$500
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 83
........................................................................................................GETTING YOUR LICENSE/ID CARD
2016 Top Citations for Teens Ages 1519
Violation
Citations
1 Unlawful Speed
61,678
2 Careless Driving
21,754
3 Operating Motor VehicleNo Proof Of Insurance
11,936
4 Operating Motor Vehicle Without Driver License
9,309
5 Fail To Obey Traffic Instruction Sign/Device
8,551
6 Fail To Display Driver License
7,370
7 Seat Belt Violation
7,279
8 Operating Motor VehicleObscure/Deface/No Tag/
7,031
Registration Certificate
9 Learner's License Violation
6,856
10 Failure To Observe Stop Sign
6,330
Source: Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
84 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
11
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18

85
DRIVING SCHOOL PROVIDERS
Traffic Law Substance
Abuse Education (TLSAE)
Course Providers
If you have never held or do not
have in your possession a driver
license in any state, country, or
jurisdiction, you must complete a
Traffic Law and Substance Abuse
Education course before applying
for a license in the state of Florida.
The driver education courses offered
by some county school boards may
substitute for this requirement.
Please contact your local school
board for further information. If
you are under 21 years old and
receive a notice of suspension for
driving with a BAL of .02 to .05,
you must complete a Traffic Law and
Substance Abuse Education course
in order to reinstate your driver
license on a hardship basis.
Third Party Driver
License Exams
Driver license exams (Class E
Knowledge examination) are now
available from providers approved
by DHSMV. The online exam
is available to students under 18
years of age (with parent/guardian
certification). Students of all ages
may take the exams with a provider
in an in-person setting.
*An up-to-date list of APPROVED course providers can be found
on our website: www.flhsmv.gov
Basic Driver
Improvement Course
You must complete a basic driver
improvement course (Traffic
Collision Avoidance course)* if you
want to retain your driver license in
the following circumstances:
You were a driver in a crash and
are found at fault and someone
was transported to the hospital.
You had two crashes in a two-
year period, which resulted in
property damage greater than
$500.
You were convicted of:

running a red light.

passing a school bus when it
displayed a stopped signal.

racing on highway.

reckless driving.
If you receive a ticket for a non-
criminal moving violation, and
you do not hold a CDL, you
may elect to attend a basic driver
improvement course in lieu of
points on your driving record. (You
may not elect to attend if you were
charged with exceeding the speed
limit by more than 30 MPH.)
In some cases, you may choose to
attend a course to receive insurance
discounts. This discount is solely
at the discretion of your insurance
company.
86 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
If, as a result of a moving violation,
you elect to attend and complete a
basic driver improvement course,
you will receive the following
benefits:
1. Insurance companies cannot
impose an additional premium or
refuse to renew a policy for motor
vehicle insurance solely because
the insured committed a non-
criminal traffic infraction, with
the following exceptions: a second
infraction within 18 months;
2 third infraction within 36
months; or exceeding the speed
limit by more than 15 MPH.
2. Points may not be added to
your driver license record if
adjudication of guilt is withheld.
You may not make an election
under this subsection if you
have made this election in
the preceding 12 months. A
person may make no more than
five elections in a lifetime. To
determine if you are eligible
to make an election to attend
traffic school, check our website
at flhsmv.gov.
Within 30 days from the date you
received the traffic citation and prior
to attending class, you must:
1. Inform the Clerk of Court in
the county where you received
the citation that you want to go
to traffic school, and
2. Pay an election fee to the Clerk
of Court in the county where
you received the citation.
A full list of your options for
satisfying your traffic citation is on
the back of the citation. You are
required to choose one of the three
options within 30 days of receiving
the citation.
Advanced Driver
Improvement Courses
If your Florida driver license was
suspended for points, as a habitual
traffic offender (non-DUI), or by
court order, you must complete
an advanced driver improvement
course. If you hold a Florida driver
license and receive a citation for
a moving violation in another
state, that state may withhold
adjudication if you complete a
DHSMV-approved advanced driver
improvement course.
Licensed DUI Programs
You may be required to complete
a licensed DUI program if your
license is administratively suspended
for: unlawful blood or breath
alcohol level; refusal to submit
to a breath, blood, or urine test;
or conviction of driving under
the influence or possession of a
controlled substance.
Older Driver Courses
A driving course just for older
adults (65+) can update drivers
on traffic laws and suggest useful
ways to adapt driving habits to
accommodate aging. Some courses
even qualify older drivers for a
reduction in auto insurance costs.
12
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 87
DRIVER LICENSE TESTING
The purpose of the license
examination is to determine that
you:
1. Can read and understand
road signs, traffic signals, and
highway markings.
2. Know Florida driving laws.
3. Meet minimum vision
standards.
4. Have the knowledge, skills, and
experience to drive safely.
5. Do not have any physical or
mental conditions that would
affect your ability to drive safely.
Testing Options
Driver license testing can be
administered at state driver license
service centers, Driver Education
Licensing Assistance Programs
(DELAP), and authorized third
party testers.
A list of driver license service centers
can be found at flhsmv.gov.
Driver Education (DELAP)
Many driver education teachers
assist the DHSMV in licensing new
drivers. Students who complete
their driver license exams through
approved DELAP courses in public
or private schools will have the
results entered into DHSMV's test
records by their driver education
teacher.
The exam results will be used for
issuance of a learner's driver license
or driver license. However, the
driver license service center may test
any student again on a random basis
before issuing a driver license.
Third Party Testing
The Class E Knowledge Exam is
also available through third party
providers approved by DHSMV.
Students of all ages may take the
exams with a provider that offers
them in an in-person setting.
(Students under 18 may take the
knowledge exam online.) A list of
approved third party testers can be
found at flhsmv.gov.
License Examinations
Persons applying for an original
Florida license are required to take
the following exams:
Vision & Hearing Screening
Class E Knowledge Exam
Driving Skills Test
See page 71 (Reciprocity) for
exceptions where tests are waived.
Vision
You must wear corrective lenses
when you drive if you need to wear
contact lenses or glasses to pass the
vision test. (The use of telescopic
lenses to meet visual standards is not
recognized in Florida.)
Your driving privilege will be
revoked if you are unable to meet
the minimum vision standards.
20/40 or better vision in each
eye with or without corrective
88 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
lenses meets state requirements
without referral to an eye
specialist.
20/50 or worse vision in
either eye with or without
corrective lenses are referred
to an eye specialist for possible
improvement.
20/70 vision in either eye, or
both eyes together may pass
after referral to an eye specialist,
providing the vision in the worst
eye is better than 20/200.
If one eye is blind or 20/200
or worse, the other eye must be
20/40 or better with or without
corrective lenses.
Class E Knowledge Exam
The knowledge exam consists of 50
multiple-choice questions about:
1. Florida traffic laws,
2. safe driving practices, and
3. identifying traffic controls.
You will be expected to know:
Seat Belt Laws
Traffic Controls
Vehicle Control
Lane Controls
Speed Limits
Turns
Yielding the Right-
of-way
Vehicle
Restrictions
Parking
Restrictions
Maintaining
Attention
Headlight Use
Signaling
Licensing
Insurance
and More! It's all in this Handbook!
Driving Skills Test
No other passengers are permitted
during the exam (unless a language
interpreter is necessary). You will
perform the following maneuvers on
the driving exam:
Three Point Turn. Turn car
around in a 2040 foot space.
Approach of Crossing. Get in
the proper lane and look in each
direction.
Observe Right-of-Way. Allow
pedestrians to cross, pull over
and stop for emergency vehicles,
and don't enter an intersection
where you will interfere with
other traffic.
Straight-In Parking. When
properly parked, the vehicle
should be centered inside the
space with no part of the vehicle
extending out in the traffic lane.
Parking on a Grade. Proper
parking for uphill and downhill,
with and without a curb.
Stop Quickly. Make a quick,
safe stop when the examiner/
agent instructs you.
Backing. Back for a distance
of 50 feet at a slow speed while
looking to the rear. Do not use
the rear-view mirror or rear-view
camera monitor.
Obey Stop Signs. Approach
in the proper lane, come to a
complete stop before reaching
the stop line or crosswalk, and
remain stopped until you can
move safely.
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......................................................................................................................DRIVER LICENSE TESTING
Obey Traffic Signals. Get into
the proper lane and approach
the light at a speed that will
allow you to stop if the light
should change. When the
light turns green, do not move
forward until the other traffic
has cleared the intersection.
Signal and Turn. Get into the
proper lane and signal your
turn for the last 100 feet. You
may use either hand signals or
mechanical signals.
Passing. Always look ahead and
behind to make sure you can
pass safely.
Stay in Proper Lane. Drive in
the right lane except on a one-
way street. Do not change lanes
until you may do so safely.
Follow at a Safe Distance. Do
not follow too closely behind
other cars. Keep a minimum
following distance of three to
four seconds.
Use Proper Posture. Keep both
hands on the steering wheel and
do not rest your elbow in the
window.
The examiner will explain any
mistakes you may have made after
the test is completed. If you fail the
driving skills test, you will be asked
to study or practice before returning
for retesting.
If you pass the driving skills test,
the examiner will collect the fee and
issue your license.
Vehicle Inspection
You must provide a vehicle (with a
valid license plate and insurance) for
the driving skills test. Your vehicle
will be inspected to determine
that it is safe for a driving test. The
driving skills test will not be given if
the examiner finds:
Horn, rear-view mirror,
directional signals, steering
wheel, brakes, tires, brake lights,
or tail lights are defective or
inoperable.
No windshield wipers on the
driver's side.
No operable headlights when
visibility is reduced.
Cracked or broken glass that
hinders visibility.
Expired tag.
The vehicle doesn't have doors.
Front doors don't open from the
inside and outside.
Vehicle does not have stationary
seats.
Vehicle does not permit the
driver to give hand signals when
required.
Jeep-type vehicles without
framed canvas or metal doors
held by hinges and door latch.
Doesn't meet bumper height
requirements.
A low-speed vehicle.
90 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 91
STUDY GUIDE FOR KNOWLEDGE EXAM
1a. In your vehicle, what should you adjust before you start your engine?
1b. What are the equipment requirements for windshields and side
windows?
1c What are bumper height requirements? Are they the same for every
vehicle?
1d. What must you do if hauling a load of material which could fall or blow
onto the roadway?
1e. When a projected load extends more than 4 feet from the vehicle, what
must you use to clearly mark it in the daytime? At night?
2a. Why is drowsy driving dangerous?
2b. What should you do if another driver is threatening you or intentionally
driving dangerously around you?
2c. What are the three main categories of distracted driving?
2d. Why is texting one of the most dangerous distracted driving behaviors?
2e. Can anyone drink and drive safely?
2f. Both your judgment and vision are affected after drinking alcohol. Which
is affected first?
3a. What can happen to you if you are in a crash and not wearing a seat belt?
3b. What age are children required to be in a car seat? In a car seat or booster
seat?
3c. If a law enforcement officer stops a vehicle and the front seat passenger
under 18 years old is not wearing a safety belt, who will be charged with
the seat belt violation?
4a. What does a single broken white line on the highway mean?
4b. What does a double solid yellow line in the center of the highway mean?
A double solid white line?
4c. What does a solid yellow line to the right of the center line of the highway
mean?
4d. What do the colors of traffic signs indicate (red, orange, yellow, etc.)?
4e. When more than one vehicle approaches a four-way stop sign, which one
moves first?
4f. What does a red traffic light mean? What does a flashing red traffic light
mean?
92 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
4g. After a full stop at a red traffic light when may a driver turn right?
4h. What does a green arrow showing at the same time as a red traffic light
mean you can do?
4i. What does a flashing yellow light mean?
4j. If you are approaching a railroad crossing that does not have gates or
lights and you see a train coming, what should you do?
5a. What happens to the force of impact when you double your speed? Triple
your speed?
5b. Unless otherwise posted, what is the speed limit for cars in a residential
area?
5c. What is the maximum speed limit on an interstate highway?
5d. Can you be issued a ticket for driving too slowly?
5e. What are the steps for making a smooth stop?
5f. What is the arm signal for a left turn? Right turn? Slow or stop?
5g. How long (distance) should you signal before making a left or right turn?
5h. When can you use a three-point turn? Where should you never make a
three-point turn?
5i. What is an open intersection? When must you yield right-of-way?
5j. When may you drive in the left lane of a road with two lanes? With four
lanes?
5k. What does it mean if you see red reflectors on the lane lines facing you?
What should you do?
5l. What is the recommended safe following distance?
5m. When should you increase your following distance?
5n. What are blind spots?
5o. How do you check your blind spots when you are preparing to change
lanes or turn?
5p. Where is it unlawful to overtake and pass?
5q. Under what circumstances can you stop in the acceleration lane on an
expressway?
5r. What should you do if you drive past your exit on an interstate highway?
5s. Where should you move your vehicle if you break down while driving on
the highway?
5t. What is the farthest away you can park from a curb?
The Official Florida Driver License Handbookrev. 04/23/18 93
5u. If you have a manual transmission, what gear should you put the car
in when parking downhill? Uphill? What if you have an automatic
transmission?
5v. Where is parking prohibited?
5w. Which way should you turn your wheels when parking uphill along a
curb? Which way should you turn them where there is not a curb? Which
way should you turn them if parking downhill?
6a. Are motorists required to stop or yield for pedestrians crossing the street?
6b. What must you do when you see a pedestrian with a white cane in the
street ahead of you?
6c. What is the minimum distance a motorist must give when traveling next
to a cyclist?
6d. As a motorist, what should you do when preparing to turn right on a
roadway with a bike lane?
6e. When on the roadway, do motorcyclists and moped riders have the same
rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers?
6f. If you are driving a motor vehicle, are you allowed to share a lane with a
motorcyclist?
6g. When a school bus is stopped to unload children on a highway divided
with a raised barrier, are vehicles traveling in the opposite direction
required to stop?
6h. When a school bus stops to unload children, are vehicles traveling in the
same direction required to stop?
6i. What must you do when children or school crossing guards are present in
a crosswalk?
6j. What must you do if an emergency vehicle with activated lights and/or
sirens is approaching you from behind?
6k. What does the Move Over Law require you to do?
6l. What is a "No Zone"?
7a. At what times must you use your headlights?
7b. At night, within how many feet of approaching a vehicle from the rear
must you dim your high beam headlights?
7c. Within how many feet of an oncoming vehicle should you dim your high
beam headlights?
7d. When driving in the rain, fog, or smoke in the daytime, what lights should
you use?
94 2018 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
7e. What should you do when driving on wet roads in the rain? Why?
8a. What should you do if your right wheels go off the pavement while
driving?
8b. What should you do if your tires begin to skid while driving?
8c. When emergency braking, what is the difference between conventional
brakes and anti-lock brakes (ABS)?
8d. What should you do during a tire blow-out?
8e. What must you do if you are involved in a minor accident and your
vehicle is blocking the flow of traffic?
8f. If you hit a parked car and are unable to find the owner, what should you
do?
8g. What are the penalties for leaving the scene of an accident involving
injury or death?
9a. What are the requirements of the No-Fault Law?
9b. If your license and registration are suspended for being in violation of the
No-Fault Law, what must you do to get them reinstated?
9c. What are the penalties if you are at fault in a crash and you are not
insured in compliance with the Financial Responsibility Law?
9d. What are the time restrictions for a driver with a learner's license?
9e. What are the time restrictions for a licensed driver under age 17? Under
age 18?
9f. When can you be charged with driving under the influence (DUI)?
9g. What are the penalties for refusing to take a blood test, a urine test, or a
breath test when suspected of driving under the influence?
9h. What can happen if you are found guilty of racing on the highway?
10a. If you have a learner's license, how many hours of driving experience are
required to earn the Class E driver license?
10b. What education course are you required to take if you are applying for a
learner's license (or have never held a driver license)?
10c. Are you required to notify DHSMV of any health problems that may affect
your driving?
11. Why would one opt to take a Basic Driver Improvement Course?
12. What maneuvers are required on a driving exam?
Check out all you can do at flhsmv.gov!
Renew your vehicle registration
Update your insurance information
Register Emergency Contact Info
Find third-party exam providers
Find locations and contact information
Submit a question (answered in two
for motor vehicle service centers
business days)
Access driving history of your teen
Download driver license handbooks
Check your driver license
Check your driving school eligibility
Track your driver license or ID card
Change your address on your
order status
driver license
Verify driving school status
Update your Social Security Number
Check personalized plate availability
Electronic title
And much, much more!
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles offers a variety
of services ranging from address changes to renewals at: GoRenew.com.
To complete vehicle and vessel registration renewals, customers may also
download the DHSMV MyFlorida mobile app. The MyFlorida app allows
customers to securely renew a registration on an eligible vehicle or vessel
and receive proof of transaction to use until the registration arrives in the
mail. The MyFlorida app is available to download for free now via iTunes and
Google Play.
Available for download at
www.flhsmv.gov
and on iTunes and GooglePlay.
STUDY.
PASS.
DRIVE SAFELY.