Driving School Fort Lauderdale

Florida 4-Hour Drug and Alcohol Course (TLSAE)

If you are a first-time driver in Florida, you have probably heard about the 4-hour course. It goes by a few names, but it is one simple, required first step. Here is what it is and how it fits into getting your license.

What is the Florida 4-hour course?

The 4-hour basic driving course is officially the Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course. You may also see it called the Drug and Alcohol course or the first-time driver course. All of these names refer to the same thing.

Who needs it

Every first-time driver in Florida must complete the TLSAE course before taking the Class E knowledge (permit) exam. It is required whether you are a teen or an adult getting your first license.

What it covers

  • Florida traffic laws and safe driving practices
  • The effects of alcohol and drugs on driving
  • How to avoid common, high-risk driving situations

How to take it

The course is approved to take online and usually takes about four hours. Once you finish, you are eligible to take the permit test, and then to start lessons on the road.

Ready for the next step? Our junior and teen lessons take you from permit to license. Contact us to start.

Frequently asked questions

What is the 4-hour basic driving course in Florida?
It is the Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course, also called the Drug and Alcohol course. First-time drivers must complete it before the permit test.
Is the 4-hour course the same as the Drug and Alcohol course?
Yes. TLSAE, the 4-hour course, and the Drug and Alcohol course are all names for the same first-time driver course.
Can I take the 4-hour course online?
Yes. The TLSAE course is approved to take online and usually takes about four hours.
Do I need the 4-hour course before the permit test?
Yes. First-time Florida drivers must finish the TLSAE course before taking the Class E knowledge (permit) exam.