According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (HSMV) to earn an Operator’s License, teens must be at least 16 years old AND have held a learner’s license for at least one year without any traffic convictions.
On July 1, 1996, Florida established the Graduated Licensing System. The program gives young drivers more time to learn all the complex skills needed to drive a vehicle. The program consists of three stages beginning with the Learner’s License. Young drivers are required to demonstrate responsible driving behaviors in each stage of licensing before advancing to the next.
Once teens obtain an Operator’s License their driving privileges are based on their age.
16 years old
- Driving allowed between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m.
- All other times must be accompanied by a licensed driver at least 21 years old occupying the closest seat to the right of the driver, or be traveling to or from work.
17 years old
- Driving allowed between 5 a.m. and 1 a.m.
- All other times must be accompanied by a licensed driver at least 21 years old occupying the closest seat to the right of the driver, or be traveling to or from work.
18 years old
- Driving allowed at all hours of the day without a licensed passenger requirement.
So after having a learner's permit for at least 1 year in FL the next step is an operator's license with conditions on it. The conditions or restrictions on this type of driver's license depends upon your age. For more information on the graduated licensing system in place in Florida contact the HSMV directly.
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