The 100 days between Memorial Day and Labor Day, known as the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer,” are the most dangerous time for teen drivers. Studies by AAA and The Florida Safe Teen Driving Coalition show a sharp increase in fatal crashes involving teen drivers during this period.

In Florida, March is particularly deadly for teen drivers due to Spring Break and St. Patrick’s Day, which see increased dangerous driving behaviors leading to fatal or serious crashes.

Teen drivers need to understand the risks of dangerous driving behaviors. A citation or warning is vastly different from causing a crash that results in injury or death.

Teen Driver Safety:

Parents should talk to their teens about vehicle preparedness and what they should carry with them before driving. As of May 2024, over 205K Florida teens between 15-19 have learner’s licenses. It’s crucial for parents to ensure their teens understand traffic laws, license restrictions, and the importance of carrying essential documents.

Important Reminders for Teen Drivers:

  • Carry a valid Florida Driver License or Learner’s Permit, proof of insurance, and ensure the license plate is visible and in good condition.
  • Common citations for teens in 2023 included driving without proof of insurance, driving without a license, learner license violations, and obscured license plates.
  • Check that teens have their license, registration, and proof of insurance before driving.

Traffic Laws for Florida Teens:

In addition to standard traffic laws, specific regulations apply to minors:

  • No moving violations for one year: A moving traffic conviction extends the learner’s license period by a year or until the teen turns 18.
  • School attendance compliance: Driving privileges can be suspended for poor school attendance.
  • Zero tolerance for alcohol: Teens with a BAC of .02% or more face immediate license suspension for six months. Refusing a BAC test results in a 12-month suspension for the first offense.
  • 6+ points in 12 months: Leads to a “Business Purposes Only” restriction for one year.
  • Parental authority: Parents can cancel their teen’s license by rescinding the Parental Consent Form.
  • Tobacco possession: Conviction results in a 30-day license revocation.

Requirements for Teens Obtaining a Florida Learner’s License:

  • Must be at least 15 years old.
  • Parental Consent Form required if under 18.
  • Complete a Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course.
  • Pass vision, hearing, and knowledge exams.
  • Provide proof of identity, Social Security number, and residential address.

Requirements for Teens Obtaining a Florida Driver License:

  • Must be at least 16 years old.
  • Hold a learner’s license for at least one year or until 18.
  • Complete 50 hours of driving experience (10 hours at night) certified by a parent or guardian.
  • No moving violations for one year (adjudication withheld for one violation is acceptable).
  • Pass the Class E Driving Skills Test.

SOURCE: FHSMV, AAA, FDOT