Florida DETS Update: Your Guide to the New Driver's Ed Requirement

Hitting the road for a weekend trip or cruising back to campus? If you're a first-time driver in Florida, there's a new requirement coming your way: the Driver Education Traffic Safety (DETS) course. Starting July 1, 2025, DETS will replace the TLSAE course for anyone under 18 getting their learner's permit in Florida.

This article breaks down what DETS is, why the switch happened, and how to get ahead of the change—especially if you're balancing busy college life with getting licensed.

What Is DETS and Why the Change?

DETS is a 6-hour driver education course focused on decision-making, defensive driving, and the real-life risks young drivers face. Unlike TLSAE, which was more about basic traffic laws and substance education, DETS adds depth to your preparation with modules on:

• Recognizing and avoiding impaired driving

• Staying alert on long drives or late nights

• Reacting to hazards on busy highways and in urban settings

It’s Florida’s way of leveling up teen driver readiness for today’s real-world road conditions.

Who Needs DETS?

If you're under 18 and plan to apply for a learner's permit on or after July 1, 2025, you’ll need to register for the DETS course instead of TLSAE.

Already started TLSAE? You can still use your certificate—as long as you complete it by July 31, 2025 and it hasn’t expired.

18 or older? This change doesn’t affect you. TLSAE remains valid.

Why It Matters for College Drivers

Picture this: You're driving down I-4 during Thanksgiving break when traffic suddenly slows. DETS trains you to handle those high-pressure moments. It's about:

• Defensive driving on long highway trips

• Keeping calm under stress

• Preventing the most common mistakes new drivers make

Plus, many insurance companies offer discounts for completing defensive driving training. DETS may help you save while staying safer.

Where to Find DETS Courses

No need to sit in a classroom—DETS will be available through several online providers approved by the Florida licensing office. Flexible, mobile-friendly, and built for your schedule.

We’ll link to official providers here once they’re announced.

Final Thoughts

The DETS course isn’t just a box to check—it’s your toolkit for safer, smarter driving in Florida and beyond. By preparing early and understanding your requirements, you'll be ready to earn your permit and hit the road with confidence.