Traffic Law & Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE)

The Florida Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education course is a required first-driver education program for certain applicants who have never previously held a driver license.

For current applicants, TLSAE is particularly relevant to first-time drivers age 18 or older. Florida's requirements changed for minors in 2025: applicants under 18 generally must now complete the 6-hour Driver Education Traffic Safety (DETS) course rather than TLSAE.

Who needs TLSAE?

TLSAE is generally appropriate if you:

• Are 18 years of age or older

• Have never previously held a driver license

• Are applying for your first Florida driving credential

• Need to satisfy Florida's traffic-law and substance-abuse education requirement

FLHSMV states that new drivers must complete the applicable traffic-law/substance-abuse education requirement before becoming licensed.

What will I learn?

The course covers important topics for new drivers, including:

• Florida traffic laws

• Signs, signals and roadway rules

• Safe driving practices

• Effects of alcohol and drugs on driving

• Impaired-driving risks

• Responsible decision-making

• Driver responsibilities

• How unsafe choices can affect driving privileges

How does the online course work?

Enroll through our approved online course provider and complete the course entirely online at your own pace.

After successfully completing the course, your completion is reported through the required system so it can be verified when you continue the Florida licensing process.