At Kaiser Romanello Accident & Injury Attorneys, we are committed to advocating for safer roads and reducing preventable accidents in Florida. The recent signing of a new bill by Governor Ron DeSantis, effective July 1, 2025, introduces significant updates to driver’s license and learner’s permit requirements. Carried by Sen. Jay Collins and Rep. Michelle Salzman, this legislation emphasizes comprehensive driver education, particularly for adults seeking Florida licenses, to ensure they are well-versed in traffic laws and the dangers of substance abuse. We believe these changes will help reduce crashes and promote safer driving across the state.

Strengthening Driver Education for Adults

The new law revises the Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course requirements to better prepare drivers. Specifically, it mandates that adults aged 18 and older applying for a Florida driver’s license complete a TLSAE course, unless they have previously held a license in another state or completed a Department of Education-approved driver education course. This requirement ensures that adult drivers, especially those new to Florida, gain critical knowledge about the state’s traffic regulations and the risks of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The TLSAE course covers essential topics such as safe driving practices, the effects of substances on driving ability, and Florida-specific traffic laws, equipping adults with the tools to make responsible decisions behind the wheel.

For learner’s permit applicants, the legislation replaces the TLSAE course requirement with a mandatory driver education course approved by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). These courses adhere to rigorous curriculum standards, providing practical training to help new drivers develop the skills needed for safe navigation of Florida’s roads. This shift ensures that all drivers, regardless of age, receive targeted education tailored to their needs.

Reducing Crashes Through Informed Drivers

At Kaiser Romanello, we understand the tragic toll of car accidents, many of which are preventable through proper education. In 2023, Florida recorded over 400,000 motor vehicle crashes, often linked to a lack of awareness about traffic laws or the dangers of impaired driving. By requiring adults to complete the TLSAE course, this legislation directly addresses these issues, ensuring that those seeking a Florida license are educated on the responsibilities of driving. This focus on adult education is crucial, as many crashes involve drivers who may be unfamiliar with state-specific laws or the severe consequences of substance abuse.

The DHSMV-approved courses for learner’s permit applicants further complement this effort by providing hands-on training and classroom instruction. Together, these requirements create a comprehensive framework for driver education, reducing the likelihood of accidents caused by inexperience or ignorance of the law.

A Commitment to Safer Roads

This legislation underscores Florida’s dedication to improving road safety through education. By ensuring that adults seeking licenses are well-informed about traffic laws and substance abuse risks, and by providing new drivers with robust training, the state is tackling key factors that contribute to crashes.

For more details on the new law, read the full article here.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, or if their life was wrongfully taken by a driver under the influence, don’t wait to seek justice. Kaiser Romanello Accident & Injury Attorneys is here to help. Contact us today for a free case review by calling 844-877-8679 or filling out our online contact form. Time is critical in these cases, so act now to protect your rights. Let us fight for you and help make Florida’s roads safer.