Important Changes for Teen Drivers Ages 15-17

Florida has implemented new requirements for teen drivers seeking their Learner’s Permit. These changes affect teens ages 15-17 and their parents who need to navigate the updated licensing process.

Effective August 1, 2025

Beginning August 1, 2025, all teen drivers ages 15-17 must complete the following requirements to obtain their Learner’s Permit:

• New 6-Hour Driver Education Traffic Safety (DETS) Course: This comprehensive course replaces the previous 4-hour TLSAE course for teen drivers
• Documentation Requirements: Real ID-compliant documents, proof of address, and parental consent
• Course Change: The 4-hour TLSAE course will no longer be accepted for teen drivers

Transition Period: July 1-31, 2025

During the month of July 2025, teen drivers will have flexibility in meeting course requirements:

• Course Options: Either the 4-hour TLSAE course OR the new 6-hour DETS course will be accepted
• Documentation: Real ID documents, proof of address, and parental consent still required

Grandfathered Exemptions

The following teen drivers will not need to complete the new DETS course:

Completed Requirements Before August 1, 2025

• Teens who completed the TLSAE course before August 1, 2025 (certificate remains valid for one year from completion date)
• Teens who already possess a Florida Learner’s Permit before August 1, 2025

Other Exemptions

• Teens moving to Florida with a valid out-of-state permit or license
• Individuals age 18 and older (will continue using the TLSAE course)

Important Timing Consideration

If you complete the TLSAE course before August 1, 2025, but do not obtain your license within one year of course completion, you will be required to take the new 6-hour DETS course.

ONGOING THREAT: Fraudulent text messages demanding payment for alleged unpaid tolls continue to target Hillsborough County residents.

What You Need to Know

The Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s Office and toll authorities will NEVER:

• Send text messages demanding immediate payment
• Ask you to click on payment links sent via text
• Request personal or financial information through text messages

Recognize the Scam

Red flags to watch for:

• Urgent text messages claiming you have unpaid toll violations
• Links directing you to suspicious payment websites
• Threats of additional fees or penalties if you don’t pay immediately
• Messages from unknown or unfamiliar phone numbers

How to Protect Yourself

If you receive a suspicious toll-related text message:

1. Do not click any links or provide personal information
2. Do not respond to the message
3. Report the scam to the Florida Attorney General’s Office
4. Verify independently by contacting the relevant toll authority directly using official contact information

Stay Informed

Share this information with family, friends, and neighbors to help protect our entire community from these scam attempts.

For questions about legitimate toll payments or to verify outstanding fees, contact the appropriate toll authority directly through their official website or customer service number.