What is the Florida TLSAE course?
The Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course is a 4-hour, state-approved online program required for first-time drivers age 18 and older in Florida. It’s also known as the Florida Drug and Alcohol Course, 4-Hour Drug and Alcohol Test, or First Time Driver Course.
Who needs to take the TLSAE course?
Any first-time driver in Florida 18 or older must complete TLSAE before applying for a learner’s permit or driver’s license. Teens under 18 now take the 6-hour DETS course instead.
Is TLSAE the same as the Drug and Alcohol Course?
Yes. All of these terms—TLSAE, Florida Drug and Alcohol Course, First-Time Driver Class—describe the same 4-hour requirement.
How long is the TLSAE course?
The TLSAE is a 4-hour course, as required by the Florida DHSMV.
Can I take TLSAE online?
Yes. Our TLSAE is 100% online and mobile-friendly, so you can complete it anytime, anywhere.
Course Logistics
Do I have to finish TLSAE in one sitting?
No. The course is self-paced. You can log in and out as needed, and your progress will be saved.
How long does it take to get my certificate of completion?
You can download your certificate immediately after finishing. We also report your completion directly to the Florida DHSMV.
What happens after I complete the TLSAE course?
Once you pass TLSAE, your next steps are:
- Take the Florida learner’s permit exam
- Bring your documents to the DMV
- Begin your supervised driving practice
How do I know I’m taking the right course?
TLSAE may also be listed as Florida Online Drivers Ed Course, First Time Driver Course, Drug & Alcohol Course, or ADAPT. They all refer to the same 4-hour requirement for adults 18+.
Permit Exam
What are my options for taking the Florida permit exam?
- At a local DHSMV office
- Online, if you qualify (ages 14½–17 may test online; adults usually test in person)
What happens if I fail the final quiz?
Don’t worry — it’s a simple multiple-choice quiz, and almost everyone passes right away. In fact, 99.9% of students pass on the first try and 100% by the second. Plus, we give you plenty of practice questions throughout the course so you’ll know exactly what to expect.
How much does a Florida learner’s permit cost?
The state fee for a learner’s permit is $48. This does not include the TLSAE course fee.
What’s on the Florida permit test?
The exam has 50 multiple-choice questions covering Florida road rules and road signs. You must score 80% or higher to pass.
How many times can I retake the permit test?
You can attempt the test online up to 3 times. If you don’t pass, you’ll need to test in person at the DMV.
Do you provide free practice exams and driver handbooks?
Yes! Take our free 50-question Florida Learners Permit Practice Test as many times as you need to feel confident for the real thing! Further, test your driver education knowledge by taking the Florida DHSMV simulated permit exam. You can also download the Florida Driver Handbook.
Testing & Assessments
How many questions are on the Florida driver’s license test?
The permit exam includes 50 questions: 25 on road signs and 25 on road rules. You must answer at least 40 correctly to pass.
What happens if I fail the Florida permit test?
You may retake it up to 3 times online. After that, you’ll need to test in person at the DHSMV.
Is the online permit exam the official Florida test?
Yes. Our exam is authorized by the Florida DHSMV.
What type of questions are on the permit exam?
Questions are a mix of multiple choice and true/false, covering road rules and road signs.
Curriculum
- Florida traffic laws and rules of the road
- Effects of drugs and alcohol on driving
- Florida DUI laws and penalties
- Risk factors like distracted and drowsy driving
- Decision-making with the S.P.I.D.E.R. Method™
Does TLSAE cover distracted or drowsy driving?
Yes. The course addresses impaired driving risks beyond alcohol and drugs, including distractions and fatigue.
What is the difference between TLSAE and DETS?
- TLSAE (4 hours): Required for first-time drivers 18+; focuses on traffic laws and substance abuse education.
- DETS (6 hours): Required for teens 14–17; includes defensive driving, scenarios, and in-depth S.P.I.D.E.R. Method™ training.