Florida driver's license test fees and what they cover

Florida charges $7 for the written knowledge test and $20 for the driving skills test if you take them at a Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) office. If you fail either test, you pay the fee again to retake it. The knowledge test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving rules specific to Florida. The driving skills test is the behind-the-wheel portion where an examiner watches you operate the vehicle.

These are the only test fees you owe to the state. You do not pay extra to schedule the tests, receive your results, or get your license card once you pass. If you use a third-party testing facility — a private driving school or testing center — that facility may charge its own fee on top of the state fee, typically between $15 and $50 depending on the location and whether they provide the vehicle.

Key Takeaways

  • The written knowledge test costs $7 and the driving skills test costs $20 at any DHSMV office in Florida.
  • You pay the fee each time you take a test, so retakes cost the same amount as the first attempt.
  • Private testing centers charge additional fees beyond the state fee, so calling ahead to confirm the total cost is worth doing.
  • You must bring a valid ID, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number to the test appointment, or you will be turned away without a refund.

Where to take the test and how to pay

You take both tests at a DHSMV office. Florida has offices in every county, and you can find the one nearest you on the DHSMV website by entering your county or ZIP code. Payment is cash, debit card, or credit card — the office will not accept checks. You must schedule an appointment in advance; walk-ins are not accepted for driving skills tests, though some offices take walk-ins for knowledge tests on a first-come, first-served basis.

To schedule online, go to the DHSMV website and select "Schedule an Appointment." You will choose your county, the type of test, and available dates. The system shows you which offices have openings. If you prefer to schedule by phone, call the DHSMV at 1-844-DL-RENEW (1-844-357-3639). Wait times to speak to someone can be long, especially near the end of the month.

What documents you need to bring

Bring your current valid ID (passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver's license), a document showing your current Florida address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days), and proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return). If any of these documents are missing, the office will not let you test and will not refund your fee.

If you are under 18, you also need a signed parental consent form, which you can read from the DHSMV website. Bring the original signed form, not a copy. If you are explore for a learner's permit first (which you must do before taking the driving skills test), that costs $7 as well and requires the same documents.

Knowledge test content and passing score

The written test has 50 multiple-choice questions about Florida traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 40 questions correctly to pass — that is an 80 percent score. The test covers topics like right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking, seat belt laws, and what different road signs mean. You have one hour to complete it.

You can study using the official Florida Driver License Handbook, which is free on the DHSMV website. Many people also use practice tests available online through third-party sites, though the official handbook is the most reliable source for what will actually appear on the test. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day at most offices, but you pay the $7 fee again.

Driving skills test requirements and what the examiner checks

The driving skills test lasts about 20 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, parking, turns, stopping, and your ability to follow traffic laws while driving. You must provide a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition — the examiner will not test you in a vehicle with broken lights, worn tires, or safety equipment that does not work. You cannot use a vehicle from a rental company unless it is registered in your name.

The examiner sits in the passenger seat and watches you perform tasks like parallel parking, three-point turns, lane changes, and merging. You must follow all traffic laws during the test. Common reasons people fail include hitting the curb while parking, failing to signal, rolling through a stop sign, or hitting a cone in the parking lot portion. If you fail, you can retake the test, but you must wait at least one day and pay the $20 fee again.

Using a private testing facility instead of DHSMV

Some people use a private driving school or testing center to take one or both tests. These facilities are approved by DHSMV and charge their own fees in addition to the state fee. A private facility might charge $25 to $50 for the knowledge test or $50 to $150 for the driving skills test, depending on the location and whether they provide the vehicle. The advantage is often shorter wait times for appointments.

If you use a private facility, the test is still the same — you still need the same documents, still must pass the same score, and still pay the state fee. The private facility straightforward administers the test on behalf of DHSMV. Ask the facility upfront what the total cost is, including the state fee, so you know exactly what to bring. Results are sent to DHSMV the same day, and your license is processed the same way as if you tested at an DHSMV office.

What happens after you pass both tests

Once you pass the driving skills test, you are done testing. DHSMV processes your license process and mails your physical license card to the address you provided. This usually takes 7 to 10 business days. You can drive with a temporary permit while you wait for the card to arrive — the examiner gives you a temporary driving permit document at the end of your test.

Your Florida driver's license is valid for eight years if you are under 80 years old. Renewal costs $75 and can be done online, by mail, or in person at a DHSMV office. You do not have to retake the tests to renew unless DHSMV asks you to, which is rare.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the knowledge test online from home?

No. Florida requires you to take the knowledge test in person at a DHSMV office or approved testing facility so the examiner can verify your identity. You cannot take it remotely.

What if I fail the test — do I have to wait before retaking it?

For the knowledge test, you can retake it the same day at most offices. For the driving skills test, you must wait at least one day before retaking it. You pay the full fee each time.

Do I have to use my own car for the driving test?

Yes, unless you use a private testing facility that provides a vehicle. If you use your own car, it must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The examiner will check the lights, wipers, brakes, and tires before the test begins.

What if I move to a different county before my test appointment?

You can reschedule your appointment at a different DHSMV office in your new county through the online scheduling system or by calling 1-844-357-3639. You do not lose your fee or have to pay again to reschedule.

Is there a fee to get my temporary driving permit?

Yes, a learner's permit costs $7. You must get a permit before you can take the driving skills test. The permit is valid for one year and allows you to drive with a licensed adult in the car.