ORLANDO, Fla. – News 6 traffic safety expert Trooper Steve Montiero answers viewer questions twice per week in a segment called “Ask Trooper Steve.”
Trooper Steve on Tuesday was asked, “What are the driving limitations for minors?”
Getting behind the wheel for the first time is exciting, but if you’re 15 to 17 years old in Florida, there are some specific rules you need to follow before you can enjoy full driving privileges. Think of it as a step-by-step process designed to give you more freedom as you gain more experience.
At 15, you can earn your learner’s permit, but the rules are strict. For the first three months, you can drive only during daylight hours. After that, you can drive until 10 p.m. And here’s the catch: you must always have a licensed driver 21 or older in the front passenger seat. No exceptions.
Once you turn 16 and move up to a regular driver’s license, your hours expand. You’re allowed to drive between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. If you need to be out later, it must be for work or you’ll need that licensed adult in the car with you.
At 17, your window is even wider. You can drive from 5 a.m. until 1 a.m. The same exceptions apply -- work trips are allowed, or you can drive with a licensed adult over 21 if you need to be out later.
Breaking these rules isn’t just a slap on the wrist. Driving outside the allowed hours can lead to tickets, points on your license and restricted driving privileges.
Rack up too many points and you could be limited to “business purposes only” driving.
And if you’re under 21 with even a 0.02 blood alcohol level, your license will be suspended for six months.
Florida’s teen driving laws aren’t meant to ruin your fun, they’re designed to keep you safe while you learn. As you prove yourself and gain more experience, you earn more freedom on the road.
So follow the rules, drive smart and you’ll be on your way to full driving privileges in no time.