Florida Driver Manual 2026

Official driver's handbook from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.

104 pages · 11 sections

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Customer Service Center ..........................................................................(850) 617-2000 FLHSMV Official Website .................................................................................flhsmv.gov Online Transactions (DHSMV Virtual Office) ..........................MyDMVPortal.flhsmv.gov Documentation Requirements ................................................flhsmv.gov/WhatToBring To Order a Crash Report .................................... flhsmv.gov/traffic-crash-reports/#buy Neil Kirkman Building 2900 Apalachee Parkway Tallahassee, Florida 32399 Our Mission Provide highway safety and security through excellence in service, education and enforcement. Our Vision A Safer Florida Our Values We believe in: Service by exceeding expectations; Integrity by upholding the highest ethical standards; Courtesy by treating everyone with dignity and respect; Professionalism by inspiring confidence and trust; Innovation by fostering creativity; and Excellence in all we do! ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. All rights reserved. No portion of this material may be modified in any way for distribution or publication without the express prior written permission of the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 i INTRODUCTION The Official Florida Driver License Handbook is produced by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). This guide has the information needed to prepare for the Florida Driver License Class E Knowledge Exam, the Driving Skills Test, and to help you drive safely and lawfully. Disclaimer The Official Florida Driver License Handbook contains condensed and paraphrased points of Florida laws and provides safety advice not specifically addressed in the laws. The handbook is not a legal authority and is not intended for use in court. This handbook will not reflect any changes made by the Florida Legislature after the last revision date (located at the bottom of this page). Warning Florida law prohibits using a false name, making a false statement, concealing a material fact or otherwise using fraud in an application for a driver license or ID card. The penalty can be up to five years in prison, a $5,000 fine, and suspension of any existing driving privilege for at least one year. In addition, it is illegal to permit or authorize an unlicensed person to drive a motor vehicle and doing so can result in a 60-day jail sentence and a $500 fine. If the vehicle is involved in a crash resulting in bodily injury or death of any person, the person who permitted the unlicensed person to drive may (unless it is an automatic manda- tory suspension) have their license suspended for one year. Public Records Florida law requires FLHSMV to collect certain personal information during the licensing process. This information, which identifies licensed individuals, is used for records management, driver improvement, financial responsibility, and law enforce- ment purposes. If you do not provide the required information, you will not receive a driver license or ID card. Florida’s Public Records Law makes all records made or received by FLHSMV in the course of its official business available for inspection, unless specifically exempted by law. Personal information, including name, address, and driver license number is exempt from public disclosure, but may be given to law enforcement agencies and other entities permitted by law to access the information. Medical information, social security number, and emergency contact information are available only as specifically authorized by law. FLHSMV strives to ensure the accuracy of the information obtained during the licens- ing process. If you discover any incorrect information, please call (850) 617-2000 or mail your request with your complete name, date of birth, driver license number, information about the error, and any documentation to support your request to: Chief of the Bureau of Records, 2900 Apalachee Parkway MS 89, Tallahassee, FL 32399. Some information, such as reports of convictions received from a court, can only be corrected if notification from the court is received that the report was in error. ii ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles PENDING STATUTE CHANGES FOR 2023 As of the approval of this handbook, the following legislation has passed the Florida Legislature and is contingent upon becoming law, or further action taken by the Governor. HB 0001 – Education ◆ Allows Individual Education Plans (IEPs) as an alternative to traditional school attendance. Drivers under 18 can submit proof of their IEP to prevent a truancy-related driver license suspension. SB 272 – Children and Young Adults in Out-of-Home Care ◆ Eliminates the requirement for young adults who are eligible for enrollment in Postsecondary Education Services and Support to have also been in licensed out of home care when they reached 18 years of age. HB 425 – Transportation ◆ Expands the Move Over Law to include moving over for: ◆ A disabled motor vehicle that is stopped and displaying warning lights or hazard lights. ◆ A vehicle that is stopped and is using emergency flares or posting emergency signage. ◆ A vehicle that is stopped and one or more persons are visibly present. HB 657 – Enforcement of School Zone Speed Limits ◆ Authorizes counties or municipali- ties to install camera-equipped radar detection devices in order to enforce speed limits in school zones at specified periods; ◆ School districts using the technol- ogy must post signage warning drivers where speed detection systems are being used. ◆ The registered owner of a motor vehicle found who is in violation is subject to a $100 fine. SB 766 – Enforcement of School Bus Passing Infractions ◆ Allows school districts to install and operate infraction detection systems to capture violations of drivers failing to stop for a school bus displaying a stop signal. The buses equipped with the infraction detection system will have the following: ◆ The words “STOP WHEN RED LIGHTS FLASH” or “DO NOT PASS WHEN RED LIGHTS FLASH.” ◆ The words “CAMERA ENFORCED.” ◆ A graphic symbol of a camera. ◆ The registered owner of a motor vehicle found who is in violation is subject to a civil penalty of $200 for either passing a school bus while the school bus displays a stop signal or for passing a school bus on the side that children enter and exit while the school bus displays a stop signal. ◆ An additional fine of $25 will be collected and dedicated to the safe school’s allocation provided to school districts by the Florida Department of Education. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 iii HB 965 – Driver License, Identification Card, and Motor Vehicle Registration ◆ Beginning October 1, 2023, the requirement that persons seeking to reinstate suspended or revoked driving privileges must obtain noncancelable coverage for at least six months will be removed. HB 1087 – Child Support ◆ Expands the reasons the obligor may enter into a payment agree- ment with a deferred start date and avoid suspension of their driver license and motor vehicle registration, to include when the obligor is participating in good faith in job training. HB 949 – Operation of a Golf Cart ◆ Beginning October 1, 2023, a person operating a golf cart on public roads or streets who is under 18 years of age must possess a valid learner’s driver license or valid driver license, and a person who is 18 years of age or older must possess a valid form of government-issued photographic identification. SB 1718 – Immigration ◆ Amends the human smuggling crime in s. 787.07, Florida Statutes (FS), to provide that a person commits a third-degree felony when they knowingly and willfully transport into this state an individual who the person knows, or reasonably should know, has entered the United States in violation of law and has not been inspected by the Federal Government since their unlawful entry. ◆ A person commits a separate offense for each individual they transport into this state in viola- tion of this section. ◆ It also enhances the offense to a second-degree felony if a person: ◆ Transports a minor into the state in violation of this section; ◆ Commits five or more separate offenses under this section during a single episode; or ◆ Has a prior conviction for human smuggling and commits a subsequent violation of human smuggling. iv ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION .......................................I Pending Statute Changes for 2023 ..........................ii Letter from the Director ............................................vi 1. DRIVER LICENSES & ID CARDS .................. .................................................................... .................. ................................................................... ............................................... ..... ................................... .. ....................... 3 Definitions 3 Who Needs a Florida License to Drive? 3 Reciprocity 4 License Classifications 4 Requirements for Driver License and ID Cards 5 Step 1: Primary Identification 5 Step 2: Social Security Number or Secondary ID 6 Step 3: Proof of Residential Address 7 Requirements for Class E Learner’s & Driver License .............................................................. ..................................... ............................. ...................................................... ............................................. ............................. 8 Parental Consent for Minors 8 Physical & Mental Requirements 9 Restriction Codes 10 ID Card Requirements 11 ID Cards for Homeless Persons 11 ID Cards for Persons at or Below Poverty Level ............................................ ...................................................... ...................................................... .................. ............................................ ............................... ................................................ 11 Required Designations 11 Career Offenders 11 Selective Service 11 Sexual Offenders & Sexual Predators 11 Optional Designations 12 Florida Organ & Tissue Donor 12 Veteran Designation 12 Voluntary Contributions ......................................... .................................. ................... ....................................................... ............................... .............................................................................. 12 Address and Name Changes 12 Driver License/ID Card Replacement 13 License Renewal 13 Drivers 80 Years Old and Older 14 Fees 14 2. DRIVING SCHOOLS & TEST PROVIDERS .... ......................................... .. ............... ... .................................................................... ............................................... ............................................. 17 Driving Schools/Courses 17 Traffic Law Substance Abuse Education Course 17 Basic Driver Improvement (BDI) Course 17 Advanced Driver Improvement (ADI) Courses 18 Licensed Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Programs 18 Older Driver Courses 18 Driver License Testing 18 3. YOUR DRIVING PRIVILEGE ...................... ......................................................... ............................................................. .................................. ........... .................... ..................... ......................... 23 Insurance Laws 23 No-Fault Law 23 Financial Responsibility Law 24 Restrictions for Minors (Driving Curfews) 25 Violations of the Driver License Law 25 Disabled Parking Permit Violations 25 Driving Under the Influence (DUI) 25 Littering ...................................................................... .............................. ............................................................ ............ .................................................................... .......................................................... ............................................................. ......................... 27 Passing a Stopped School Bus 27 Road Damage 27 Safety Belts and Child Passenger Safety 27 Speeding 28 Traffic Crashes 29 Point System 29 Mandatory Restriction for Minors 29 Common Violations & Associated Point Value .. 30 Losing the Privilege to Drive .................................. .............................................................. ................................................................ ............................................................. .......................................... ..... ......................................................... .......................... 30 Suspensions 30 Revocations 31 Cancellations 31 Administrative Hearings 31 4. BEFORE YOU DRIVE—YOU THE DRIVER 33 Physical Health 33 Considerations for Older Drivers 33 Distracted Driving .................................................... 34 Drinking & Driving .................................................... .......................................................... ....................................................... .................................................................... .................................................................. ........ ................................................. . 35 Drowsy Driving 35 Drugged Driving 36 Emotions 36 Road Rage 36 5. BEFORE YOU DRIVE—YOUR VEHICLE 37 Vehicle Registration 37 Applying for Title, License Plates & Registration 37 Renewal ...................................................................... ............................................. ....................................................................... .... .......................................................... ............................... ...................................... 37 Equipment Standards 38 Air Bags 39 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) 39 Brake Systems 40 Bumper Height Requirements 41 Emissions Control Devices 41 Trailers, Towing, & Load ...........................................41 The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 v 6. TRAFFIC CONTROLS .............................. ................................................. ......................................................... ............................................................... ............................................................. ............................... ....... ................................... ..................................... 43 Pavement Markings 43 Other Markings 46 Traffic Signs 46 Traffic Signals 51 Specialized Signs and Signals 54 Construction/Maintenance Signs & Signals 54 Drawbridge Signs & Signals 54 Pedestrian Signs & Signals 55 Railroad Crossing Signs & Signals......................... .................................. ................................... ............................................ ................................................ ................................. ................................................................ ................................................................ 56 School Zone Signs & Signals 57 7. DRIVING SAFETY 59 Getting Ready to Drive 59 Inspect Your Vehicle 59 Before You Start Your Engine 59 Backing Up 59 Blind Spots 60 Braking Distance ...................................................... ................................................. ............................................................. ................................................................... .................................................. ............................................................ ....................................... .......................................................... ....................................................................... 60 Following Distances 61 Intersections 62 Driveways 62 Open Intersections 62 Roundabouts 63 Limited Access Highways 63 Move Over Law 65 Parking 65 Passing ....................................................................... .............................................................. ............................................................. ..................................................................... .............................................................. ....................................................................... .................................................... ............... ....................................................................... 67 Right-of-Way 68 Speed Limits 68 Stopping 68 Traffic Lanes 68 Turning 69 Three-Point Turns 70 8. SPECIAL DRIVING SITUATIONS 71 Animals 71 Low Visibility ............................................................. ............................................................................. .............................................................. ...................... ..................................................... ....................... 71 Rain 72 Night Driving 72 9. HANDLING EMERGENCIES 75 Defensive Driving 75 Interacting with Law Enforcement 75 Your Responsibilities After a Crash ....................... ...................................................... ...................................................................... ......................................................... .............................................. ................................. ............................ 77 Stay at the Scene 77 First Aid 77 Treat For Shock 78 Emergency Scenarios 78 Avoiding Rear-End Collisions 78 Breakdowns/Disabled Vehicles 78 Emergency Braking.................................................. ............................................................................... .................................................. ......................................................... ........................................................... .................................... .......................................... ..................................... .................................................. 78 Fire 79 Jammed Gas Pedal 79 Overcorrection 79 Power Outage 79 Right Wheels Off Pavement 79 Skidding/Hydroplaning 79 Stalled on Railroad Tracks 79 Submerged Vehicle 80 Tire Blowout .............................................................. ........................ ................................................................. .............................. ..................................................................... ................................... ................................................. ................................................ ................................................................... 80 Vehicle Approaching in Your Lane 80 Wet Brakes 80 10. SHARING THE ROAD 81 Bicyclists 81 Commercial Motor Vehicles 82 Emergency Vehicles 84 Funeral Processions 84 Golf Carts 84 Low-Speed Vehicles ................................................ ....................................... ............................................................... ................................................... .............................................. ........................................... ............................................................ 85 Motorcycles and Mopeds 85 Pedestrians 87 Rules for Motorists 88 Rules for Pedestrians 88 Pedestrian Safety Tips 88 Public Transit 88 School Buses............................................................. ...................................................... .............................................. ..... 89 School Crossings 89 Slow Moving Vehicles 89 11. STUDY GUIDE FOR KNOWLEDGE EXAM 91 vi ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles LETTER FROM THE DIRECTOR Welcome Florida Motorist, The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) provides the Official Florida Driver License Handbook to educate and encourage you to safely learn the rules of the road and become a confident and responsible driver. When you are behind the wheel, you should be knowledgeable of traffic laws and how to safely operate your vehicle without distraction or impair- ment. Florida's population includes residents and tourists who travel on state roadways; you must always exercise caution and pay attention to your actions, those of other drivers, and the roadway itself. Every day in Florida over 1,000 crashes occur, many of which are preventable. You are responsible for taking driving seriously, understanding that your choices before and while behind the wheel affect everyone on the roadway. Impaired, drowsy, speeding, aggressive, and distracted driving are behaviors that most significantly contribute to crashes resulting in fatalities or serious injuries. Before you decide to drive, you should be free of alcohol, drug, or prescription pill impairment, calm and focused. Responsible driving keeps everyone safe. Once licensed, you have the freedom to explore all that Florida has to offer. Our roadways will take you from the beaches in the South to the canopied roads of North Florida. Please remember while enjoying the state to take your safety and that of others seriously by obeying traffic laws and committing to only operate your vehicle free of distraction, impairment or reckless behavior. Dave Kerner Executive Director Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles IMPORTANT INFO FOR MINOR DRIVERS LEARNER’S LICENSE ◆ Always drive accompanied by a licensed driver, age 21+, who rides in the closest seat to the right of the driver. ◆ Must only drive during daylight hours during the first three months. After three months, may drive until 10 pm. ◆ Must have at least 50 hours of driving experience prior to getting driver license, and 10 hours should be at night. AGE 16 WITH DRIVER LICENSE May drive from 6 am to 11 pm unless driving to or from work OR accompanied by a licensed driver who is 21+. AGE 17 WITH DRIVER LICENSE May drive from 5 am to 1 am unless driving to or from work OR accompanied by a licensed driver who is 21+. DRIVING RECORD POINTS Drivers under the age of 18 who accumulate six or more points within a 12-month period are automatically restricted to driving for “Business Purposes ONLY” for one year. REMEMBER... Always carry your driver license with you when driving, and always have proof of vehicle registration and insurance with you in the vehicle you are driving. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 3 DRIVER LICENSES & ID CARDS Definitions Resident: A person who has his or her principal place of domicile in Florida for a period of more than six consecutive months; has registered to vote; has made a statement of domicile pursuant to section 222.17, Florida Statutes (FS); or has filed for homestead exemption on property in this state. Immigrant: A “Permanent Resident Alien” who is admitted to the United States (US) as a lawful permanent resident. Immigrants are legally accorded the privilege of resid- ing permanently in the US and are issued immigrant visas or adjusted to permanent resident status by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS). Non-Immigrant: An alien who seeks temporary entry to the US for a specific purpose and who has declared the intention to stay only for a temporary period of time. US Citizen: A person born in the US, its territories, Naturalized, or one who has obtained a Certificate of Citizenship from the US Department of State. Who Needs a Florida License to Drive? If you are a Florida resident, you must get a Florida driver license to drive a motor vehicle on public streets and highways. A non-resident (except a migrant or seasonal farm worker) who accepts employment or engages in a trade, profession or occupation in this state, or enrolls their child in a Florida public school must get a Florida driver license within 30 days in order to operate a motor vehicle. Exceptions for the Florida Driver License You do not have to get a Florida driver license to drive in Florida if you are a non-resi- dent who is at least 16 years old and have: ◆ a valid non-commercial driver license from another state or territory of the US; or ◆ an International Driving Permit from your country of residence accompanied by a valid driver license from that country. The following individuals are also exempt if they hold a valid driver license from their state/country: ◆ US government employee driving a non-commercial US government motor vehicle on official business. ◆ Any non-resident working for a firm on a contract for the US government and driving a non-commercial vehicle. (This exemption is only for 60 days.) ◆ Members of the Armed Forces stationed in Florida, their spouses and dependents. ◆ A licensed driver who lives in another state and travels regularly between home and work in Florida.

4 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� ◆ Any non-resident attending college in Florida. ◆ Non-resident migrant farm workers—even though they are employed or place children in public schools—providing they have a valid driver license from their home state. ◆ Those who drive only vehicles like farm tractors or road machines temporarily on the highway. Reciprocity The Class E Knowledge and Driving Skill exams are reciprocated (waived) if you present a valid driver license from any of the following: ◆ US states, territories/possessions* ◆ US Military ◆ Canada** ◆ France ◆ Germany (driving skills test only) ◆ Republic of China (Taiwan) ◆ South Korea Note: A vision exam is still required. * Licenses from other states or US territories/ possessions must be surrendered when the Florida driver license is issued. **Canadians can reciprocate examination requirements by surrendering their Canadian driver license. If not surrendered, Class E exams will be required. License Classifications Non-Commercial Driver Licenses Class E allows drivers to operate non-commercial vehicles with Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) less than 26,001 pounds. Motorcycles: To operate any two or three wheel motorcycle, whose engine size is more than 50 cc, you are required to have a motorcycle endorsement on your driver license or hold a ‘Motorcycle Only’ license. For additional information on motorcycle requirements please visit: flhsmv.gov/motorcycle-rider- education-endorsements Commercial Driver Licenses You must have a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class A, B, or C to operate: ◆ Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds; or ◆ A combination vehicle with a gross combination weight rating of 26,001 or more pounds, if the trailer has a GVWR of 10,001 or more pounds; or ◆ A vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver); or ◆ Any size vehicle which requires hazardous material placards or is carrying material listed as a select-agent or toxin in 42 CFR part 73. Federal regulations through the Department of Homeland Security require a background check and fingerprinting for the Hazardous Materials endorsement. See the Florida CDL Handbook for more information. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 5 ...................................................................................... Driver Licenses & iD carDs Requirements for BOTH Driver License and ID Cards All applicants for a Florida driver license or ID card must present: 1. Primary identification; 2. Proof of social security number or secondary identification; 3. Two documents that show your Florida residential address. All documents must be original or certi- fied; photocopies or notarized copies will not be accepted. If your name has changed since the pri- mary identification was issued, you will need to present a name change docu- ment such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree or court order to link the names between the primary identifica- tion and the name that will be used on the driver license or ID card. (See Name Changes on page 12.) Please visit flhsmv.gov/WhatToBring to obtain a list of requirements. Step 1: Primary Identification US Citizens must provide one of the following original or certified documents: ◆ Certified US birth certificate, including territories and the District of Columbia. The birth certificate must be issued by a government agency. Hospital birth certificates will not be accepted. ◆ Valid US passport or Passport Card. ◆ Consular Report of Birth Abroad. ◆ Certificate of Naturalization. ◆ Certificate of Citizenship. Immigrants must provide one of the following original or certified documents: ◆ Valid Alien Registration receipt card (Green card, Form I-151 or I-551, or Permanent Resident Card). ◆ I-551 stamp in a valid passport with a valid US Visa affixed or on an approved I-94. ◆ Immigration Judge’s Order, with the customer’s A-number, granting asylum with a valid passport. ◆ I-797, with the customer’s A- number, stating the customer has been granted asylum with a valid passport. ◆ I-797, I-94 indicating the customer entered as a refugee or a form from the Citizenship and Immigration Services, with the customer’s A- number, stating the customer’s application for Refugee status is approved with a valid passport. Canadian Citizens must provide one of the following original or certified documents: ◆ Valid Canadian passport. ◆ Canadian birth certificate. ◆ Canadian Naturalization Certificate. ◆ Canadian Certificate of Citizenship. Non-Immigrants must provide one of the following original documents: ◆ Valid Employment Authorization Card issued by the USCIS (Form I-688B or I-766). ◆ Proof of non-immigrant classifica- tion provided by USCIS or US Customs and Border Protection (Form I-94, not expired, with required supporting attachments). I-4s must be accompanied by a valid Passport with a valid US Visa affixed. 6 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� Certain classifications require additional documentation. Some examples are: ◆ F-1 and M-1 classification must also be accompanied by an I-20. ◆ J-1 or J-2 designation must be accompanied by a DS-2019. ◆ Refugee, asylee and parolee classifications must be accompa- nied by additional documentation such as a I-94 with picture affixed. The following documents will only be accepted with a supporting document, including but not limited to a passport, Florida driver license or ID card, driver license from another state, employment authorization card, employer identifica- tion from home country, identification from school or college, social security card or other citizenship and immigra- tion services document, including: ◆ I-571 Travel Document/Refugee Travel Permit with a valid passport. ◆ I-512 Parole Letter Accepted with a valid passport. ◆ IJO Asylum or Cancellation of Removal Immigration Judges Order granting Asylum or Cancellation of Removal with a valid passport. Immigrants, Canadian citizens, and other non-immigrants applying for a Florida driver license may be issued a 60-day temporary driving permit without a photo. Non-US citizens applying for an original ID card will be issued a receipt. FLHSMV will verify the documents valid- ity with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Department of Homeland Security, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. If your identity and legal presence is verified, you will be issued a driver license or ID card. If proof of identity/legal presence does not verify, the transaction will require secondary verification. If the secondary proof of identity/legal presence verifies, the driver license or ID card will be mailed to you; if the secondary verifica- tion does not verify, the driver license or ID card issuance will be denied. Immigrants and non-immigrants can contact USCIS for more information about obtaining identification/legal presence documents. Step 2: Social Security Number or Secondary Identification Social Security Number Florida law requires the collection of your social security number. FLHSMV will electronically verify the information with the Social Security Administration. All applicants for a driver license or ID card must present one of the following origi- nal or certified documents: ◆ Social Security card. ◆ W-2 form. ◆ Paycheck containing your com- plete social security number. ◆ 1099 form (pre-printed by issuer). ◆ Military ID. The name on your social security docu- ment must match the name that you wish to have on your driver license ID card. If you recently changed your name, you must update your records with the Social Security Administration first. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 7 ...................................................................................... Driver Licenses & iD carDs Secondary Identification If you have never been issued a social security number and you are a US citizen or immigrant, you must provide one of the secondary documents listed below. All non-immigrants must provide one of the following secondary documents: ◆ A driver license or ID card from the District of Columbia, US Territories, or one of the 50 states. ◆ US military or military dependent ID card. ◆ School record stating date of birth (must contain registrar’s signature). ◆ Transcript of the birth record filed with a public officer charged with the duty of recording certificates. ◆ An insurance policy on the custom- er’s life that has been in force for at least two years and that has the month, day, and year of birth. ◆ Florida driver license record or ID card record. ◆ Selective Service Registration (Draft Card). ◆ Receipt copy of your last Florida driver license issuance. ◆ Immigration Form I-571. ◆ Federal Form DD-214 (military record). ◆ Marriage certificate. ◆ Court order, which includes legal name. ◆ A Florida voter registration card, which was issued at least three months previously. ◆ Florida Vehicle Registration certificate obtained from the service center where the custom- er’s vehicle was registered. Florida, or out-of-state registration certificate, if name and date of birth are shown. ◆ Parent consent form of minor, signed by the parent or legal guardian. ◆ Government issued out-of-country passport, driver license, or ID card. ◆ Baptism certificate that shows date of birth and the place of baptism. ◆ Family Bible record or birth announcement in a baby book. ◆ Concealed weapons permit. Step 3: Proof of Residential Address* All applicants for a driver license or ID card must present two documents with their Florida residential address: ◆ Deed, mortgage, monthly mort- gage statement, mortgage payment booklet, or residential rental/lease agreement.* ◆ Florida Voter Registration Card. ◆ Florida Vehicle Registration or Title. ◆ Florida Vessel Registration or Title (if living on a boat/houseboat). ◆ Statements (Contact your local driver license service center for information about using statements). ◆ A utility hook-up. ◆ Automobile Payment Booklet. ◆ Selective Service Card. ◆ Medical or health card with address listed. ◆ Current homeowner insurance policy or bill. ◆ Current automobile insurance policy or bill. 8 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� ◆ Educational institution transcript forms for the current school year. ◆ Unexpired professional license issued by a government agency in the US. ◆ W-2 form or 1099 form. ◆ Form DS2019, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) status. ◆ A letter from a homeless shelter, transitional service provider, or halfway house verifying that the customer resides at the shelter address. ◆ Utility bills, mail from financial institutions; including checking, savings, or investment account statements. ◆ Mail from federal, state, county or city government agencies (includ- ing city and county agencies). ◆ Transients—Sexual Offender/ Predator/Career Offender: FDLE Registration Form completed by local sheriff’s department. * Individuals living with another person must present two documents and a letter from that person. Requirements for Class E Learner’s & Driver License Learner’s License 1. Be at least 15 years old. 2. Completion of Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education Course (TLSAE)*. 3. Pass Vision and Class E Knowledge exams. Driver License 1. Be at least 16 years old. 2. Completion of TLSAE Course*. 3. Provide required identification. 4. Pass Vision, Class E Knowledge, and Driving Skill exams. If under age 18: ◆ Must hold a learner’s license for 12 months or until the 18th birthday, whichever comes first. ◆ Must have NO moving traffic violation convictions for 12 months from learner’s license date of issue. May have ONE moving traffic violation (within 12 months of learner’s license issue) if adjudica- tion is withheld. ◆ A parent, legal guardian, or responsi- ble adult 21 years old or older, must certify that the driver has had at least 50 hours of driving experience, of which 10 hours were at night. ◆ Must have parent or guardian sign parental consent form. ◆ Must be in compliance with school attendance. * You must complete a TLSAE course if you have never held— or do not have in your possession— a driver license in any state, country, or jurisdiction and are applying for a learner’s or driver license. Applicants who successfully pass a driver's education course at a certified DELAP school are exempt from the TLSAE requirement Parental Consent for Minors If you are under age 18 and are not mar- ried, a parent or legal guardian must sign your license application in front of the driver license agent or a notary public.* The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 9 ...................................................................................... Driver Licenses & iD carDs The individual who signs the application agrees to take responsibility for your driving. If the signer rescinds responsibility, your license will be canceled. To cancel the license, the signer must write a letter to FLHSMV requesting to with- draw their consent for the minor driver, and include the minor driver’s complete name, date of birth, and license number. Send the request to: Bureau Chief of Motorist Compliance Division of Motorist Services 2900 Apalachee Parkway–MS 87 Tallahassee, FL 32399-0575 The signer may also go to MyDMVPortal.flhsmv.gov to cancel the license. * Married minors must show certified marriage certificate. Emancipated minors must show certified court order. Physical & Mental Requirements You must list any physical or mental issues that might affect your driving on your driver license application. If you have epilepsy, fainting spells, dizziness, blackouts, or any other medical condi- tion that could impair your driving, you may be asked to have your doctor complete a medical report form. This form can be requested through your local driver license service center. The report must be completed by your doctor and submitted to FLHSMV before a driver license is issued. If you are diabetic and use insulin, you may request that “Insulin Dependent” is indicated on your driver license. 10 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� Restriction Codes If you have a restriction on your license and do not comply with the requirements, you could receive a citation and have your license suspended. Code Restriction B Corrective Lenses. This person must wear corrective lenses (glasses or contacts) at all times when driving a vehicle. C Hand Controls or Pedal Extension. This person can only drive a vehicle that has hand controls or a pedal extension. F Outside Rear-view Mirror. The vehicle the person is driving must have an out-side rear-view mirror (left side) on the car. G Daylight Driving Only. (Dawn to dusk) H Employment Purposes Only. Driving privilege is limited to driving to and from work and on-the-job driving required by an employer or occupation. I Other Restrictions. 1 Business Purposes Only. Driving privilege is limited to any driving necessary to maintain livelihood, e.g., to and from work, on-the-job, educational purposes, church, and for medical purposes. 2 Probation-Interlock Device. This person can only drive a vehicle that has a device that locks the ignition. 3 Medical Alert Bracelet. 4 Automatic Transmission. This person can only drive a vehicle that has an automatic transmission. 5 Power Steering. This person can only drive a vehicle that has power steering. 6 Directional Signals. This person can only drive a vehicle that has mechanical signals. 7 Grip on Steering Wheel. This person can only drive a vehicle that has a knob or grip on the steering wheel. 8 Left Foot Accelerator. This person can only drive a vehicle that has a left foot accelerator. 9 Hearing Aid. This person must wear a hearing aid at all times while driving. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 11 ...................................................................................... Driver Licenses & iD carDs ID Card Requirements If you need an ID card, you can apply at any driver license service center. To obtain an ID card, you must: 1. Be 5 years of age or older*. 2. Present required identification, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residential address. ID cards issued to persons 5–14 years of age will be valid for four years; all others will be valid for eight years. Persons holding a driver license who wish to obtain a Florida ID card must surrender their driver license. You are prohibited from holding both a driver license and an ID card at the same time. * Any person, regardless of age, can be issued an ID card if applying for a disabled parking permit. ID Cards for Homeless Persons If you are homeless, you can get an ID card at no cost. You must provide a current letter from a local homeless shelter verifying that you are homeless and meet the identification documenta- tion requirements. ID Cards for Persons at or Below Poverty Level You can get an ID card at no cost, as long as you meet the identification documen- tation requirements and provide one of the following documents: ◆ Tax return from last year with gross income that meets 100% federal poverty level. ◆ Proof of enrollment in ACCESS, the Department of Children and Families’ Florida benefits program. Required Designations Career Offenders Career offenders are persons who are designated as habitual violent felony offenders, violent career criminals, or three-time violent felony offenders. Within two working days after complet- ing the required registration as a career offender in Florida, individuals who are not incarcerated, including those under the supervision of the Florida Department of Corrections, shall register in person at the driver license service center. Career offenders must report in person to the driver license service center every time their driver license or ID card is subject to renewal and within two work- ing days after any change in name or address. Selective Service State law requires any male who is a US citizen or immigrant, who is at least 18 years old but less than 26 years old, to comply with Federal Selective Service System requirements when applying to receive a driver license, a learner’s license, a commercial driver’s license, an ID card, or a renewal or replacement card or license. (www.sss.gov) Sexual Offenders & Sexual Predators Within 48 hours after completing the required initial registration as a sexual predator or sexual offender in Florida, individuals who are not incarcerated, including those under the supervision of the Florida Department of Corrections, shall register in person at a driver license service center or tax collector’s office. 12 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� The sexual predator or sexual offender must identify him or herself as such and provide their place of permanent or temporary residence. Post Office box numbers may not be used in place of a physical residential address. Sexual offenders will have “943.0435 F.S.” printed on the front of their driver license or ID card. Sexual predators will have “SEXUAL PREDATOR” printed on the front of their driver license or ID card. Sexual predators and offenders must report in person to a driver license ser- vice center every time their license or ID card is subject to renewal and within 48 hours after any change in name or address. Optional Designations Florida Organ & Tissue Donor Donate Life Florida is the non-profit organization that oversees the state’s organ, eye, and tissue donor registry. The Joshua Abbott Organ & Tissue Donor Registry allows Floridians to join the state’s organ and tissue donor regis- try when obtaining/renewing their license at a local driver license service center. By registering as a donor, you could save up to eight lives. DonateLifeFlorida.org 1-877-FL-SHARE Veteran Designation Any honorably discharged US veteran may have the designation “Veteran” placed on their driver license or ID card at no charge. The veteran will need to provide a copy of their DD214 or other approved discharge document at the time of issuance. Voluntary Contributions When you are applying for a driver license or ID card, you may voluntarily contribute to legislatively approved programs and special trust funds. A complete list of voluntary contributions is available at flhsmv.gov/ voluntary-contributions. Address and Name Changes Change of Address You must obtain a new driver license within 30 calendar days of any change to your mailing or residential address. You may change the address on your driver license or ID card by: ◆ Visiting MyDMVPortal.flhsmv.gov. ◆ Visiting your local driver license service center or tax collector’s office. After receiving the new driver license, destroy your old license as required by Florida law. If you fail to report a change of address you may not receive your motor vehicle registration renewal, your driver license renewal, or notices of potential sanctions. If you are pulled over by law enforcement and the address on your driver license is incorrect, you may receive a citation. Name Changes If your name has changed and you would like your name to appear on your driver license or ID card differently than what is on your primary identification, you will need to: ◆ Present an original or certified government issued marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order as a name change document. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 13 ...................................................................................... Driver Licenses & iD carDs ◆ Have your name changed on your social security card ◆ Immigrants and Non-Immigrants must have your name changed on your USCIS documents before you can change your name on your Florida driver license or ID card. ◆ Canadian Citizens must change your name on your Canadian passport before applying for a name change on your driver license or ID card. Driver License/ID Card Replacement If your driver license or ID card is lost or stolen, apply for a replacement immedi- ately. A replacement can be obtained at a driver license service center or online at MyDMVPortal.flhsmv.gov. If the card was stolen and you provide a copy of the police report (in person), the replacement fee is waived as long as you are not making any changes to the card. Replacement Requirements ◆ Primary identification, proof of social security number, and two proofs of residential address are required if you have not been issued a Florida driver license or ID card in a field office since January 1, 2010. ◆ If you changed your address, you will need to provide two approved proof of address documents. ◆ If your name has changed, you will need to provide approved docu- ments establishing your new name. License Renewal Class E driver licenses are valid for six to eight years. Expiration dates may vary for driver license renewals issued to non-immigrants. Your license may not be renewed if: ◆ You are not eligible to receive a driver license. ◆ You did not answer a summons which involved a traffic violation. ◆ Your driver license is suspended, revoked, or canceled. ◆ You do not present the required documentation. Renewal Requirements 1. Present your old driver license. 2. Pass a vision exam. 3. If you have changed your address, you will need to provide two approved proof of address documents with your new address. 4. If your name has changed, you will need to provide the approved documents establishing your new name. Primary identification, proof of social security number and two proofs of residential address (see page 5) are required if you have not been issued a Florida driver license or ID card in a field office since January 1, 2010. Any non-immigrant holding a driver license or ID card who needs a renewal or replacement driver license or ID card must apply in person.

14 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� Renewing Online If you are a US citizen or immigrant, you can renew your driver license online at MyDMVPortal.flhsmv.gov. You are not eligible for online renewal if: ◆ Your previous renewal was by phone, mail, or online. ◆ You are not a US citizen or permanent resident. ◆ Your driving privilege is suspended, revoked, or canceled and you want an ID card. After your request is processed, you will receive a six or eight year license. Florida law requires that you destroy your old driver license after receiving the new driver license. Application for renewal received after the license expiration date (midnight of your birthday) requires a $15 late fee. Drivers 80 Years Old and Older All drivers who are 80 years of age or older and who are renewing their driver license are required to pass a vision exam. The exam may be administered at a driver license service center at no additional charge or by your Florida licensed health care practi- tioner, such as your medical doctor or optometrist. A vision examination report (Form HSMV 72119) must be completed and submitted to FLHSMV if your vision test is administered by your doctor. Once it is filed, you will then be able to renew online or by mail. Should you elect to have your vision exam at a local driver license service center, please schedule an appointment so that we can serve you more efficiently. Upon passing the vision exam, you can complete the renewal process. However, if a prob- lem is detected, you will be referred to your eye doctor for follow-up, prior to being able to renew. Fees Fees for Driver License/ID Card Initial license fee for first Florida license .................................................................. $48 Learner’s license (original) ........................................................................................ $48 Class E driver license renewal ................................................................................... $48 Learner’s license renewal.......................................................................................... $48 Replacement license ................................................................................................. $25 ID card (original) ........................................................................................................ $25 ID card (replacement or renewal) ............................................................................. $25 Delinquent fee for renewals after expiration date ................................................... $15 The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 15 ...................................................................................... Driver Licenses & iD carDs Reinstatement Fees Administrative fee for insurance fraud ................................................................... $180 Administrative fee alcohol & drug-related offenses............................................... $130 After a license has been revoked............................................................................... $75 After a license has been suspended .......................................................................... $45 Suspension for failure to pay or appear for a traffic citation ................................... $60 Suspension for failure to pay child support (Court Ordered) .................................. $60 Suspension for failure to pay child support (DOR) ................................................... $45 Suspension for failure to pay court financial obligations ........................................ $60 Worthless checks ....................................................................................................... $55 Insurance Reinstatement Fees Failure to maintain liability insurance ...................................................................... $15 Failure to maintain PIP insurance: (1st suspension) ....................................................................................................... $150 (2nd suspension)* .................................................................................................... $250 (3rd suspension)*..................................................................................................... $500 (1st suspension — resulting from a DUI conviction)............................................... $150 (2nd suspension — resulting from a DUI conviction) ............................................. $250 (3rd suspension — resulting from a DUI conviction) .............................................. $500 *Within three years of first suspension. Other Fees Written re-tests (Class E Knowledge Exam).............................................................. $10 Driving skills re-tests ................................................................................................. $20 Motorcycle endorsement ............................................................................................ $7 Tax collector service fee (for services provided at a tax collector office) ............. $6.25 Exempt Fees for 100% Disabled US Veterans Any veteran honorably discharged from the Armed Forces who was issued a valid ID card by the Department of Veterans Affairs, or a letter of disability determination from the Veterans Administration and has been determined by the Veterans Administration to have a 100% service-connected disability, is exempt from paying certain driver license fees such as initial license fees and renewal fees. All ID card fees are exempt. 16 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 17 DRIVING SCHOOLS & TEST PROVIDERS Driving Schools/Courses A list of APPROVED course providers can be found on: flhsmv.gov. Traffic Law Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) Course If you have never held—or do not have in your possession—a driver license in any state, country, or jurisdiction, you must complete a TLSAE course before applying for a driver license in the state of Florida. Driver education courses offered by some county school boards may substitute for this requirement. Please contact your local school board for further information. If you are under 21 years old and receive a notice of suspension for driving with a Blood Alcohol Level (BAL) of .02 to .05, you must complete a TLSAE course in order to reinstate your driver license on a hardship basis. Basic Driver Improvement (BDI) Course You must complete a basic driver improvement course (Traffic Collision Avoidance course) if you want to retain your driver license in the following circumstances: ◆ You were a driver in a crash and are found at fault and someone was transport- ed to the hospital. ◆ You had two crashes in a two-year period, which resulted in property damage greater than $500. ◆ You were convicted of: ◆ running a red light. ◆ passing a school bus when it displayed a stopped signal. ◆ racing on the highway. ◆ reckless driving. If you receive a ticket for a non-criminal moving violation, the violation was not in a CMV and you do not hold a CDL, you may elect to attend a basic driver improvement course in lieu of points on your driving record. (You may not elect to attend if you were charged with exceeding the speed limit by more than 30 MPH.) An individual who elects to attend a basic driver improvement course for a non-criminal traffic citation will receive an 18 percent reduction toward the civil penalty. In some cases, you may choose to attend a course to receive insurance discounts. This discount is solely at the discretion of your insurance company. 18 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� If, as a result of a moving violation, you elect to attend and complete a basic driver improvement course, you will receive the following benefits: 1. Insurance companies cannot impose an additional premium or refuse to renew a policy for motor vehicle insurance solely because the insured committed a non-criminal traffic infraction, with the following exceptions: a second infraction within 18 months; a third infraction within 36 months; or exceeding the speed limit by more than 15 MPH. 2. Points may not be added to your driver license record if adjudica- tion of guilt is withheld. You may not make an election under this subsection if you have made this election in the preceding 12 months. A person may make no more than five elections in a lifetime. To determine if you are eligible to make an election to attend traffic school, check our website at flhsmv.gov. Within 30 days from the date you received the traffic citation and prior to attending class, you must: 1. Inform the Clerk of Court in the county where you received the citation that you want to go to traffic school, and 2. Pay an election fee to the Clerk of Court in the county where you received the citation. A full list of your options for satisfying your traffic citation is on the back of the citation. You are required to choose one of the three options within 30 days of receiving the citation. Advanced Driver Improvement (ADI) Courses If your Florida driver license was sus- pended for points, as a habitual traffic offender (non-DUI), or by court order, you must complete an advanced driver improvement course in order to reinstate your driving privileges. If you hold a Florida driver license and receive a citation for a moving violation in another state, that state may withhold adjudica- tion if you complete a FLHSMV-approved advanced driver improvement course. Licensed DUI Programs You may be required to complete a licensed DUI program if your license is administratively suspended for: unlaw- ful blood or breath alcohol level; refusal to submit to a breath, blood, or urine test; or conviction of driving under the influence or possession of a controlled substance. Older Driver Courses Driving courses specifically for older adults (65+) can update drivers on traffic laws and suggest useful ways to adapt driving habits to accommodate aging. Some courses even qualify older drivers for a reduction in auto insurance costs. Driver License Testing The purpose of the driver license exam- ination is to determine that you: 1. Can understand road signs, traffic signals, and markings. 2. Know Florida driving laws. 3. Meet minimum vision standards. 4. Have the knowledge, skills, and experience to drive safely. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 19 ........................................................................ Driving schooLs & TesT ProviDers 5. Do not have any physical or mental conditions that would affect your ability to drive safely. Testing Options Exams can be administered at: ◆ State driver license service centers, ◆ Driver Education Licensing Assistance Programs (DELAP), and ◆ Authorized third party providers. DRIVER LICENSE SERVICE CENTERS A list of driver license service centers can be found at flhsmv.gov/locations. DRIVER EDUCATION (DELAP) Many driver education teachers assist the FLHSMV in licensing new drivers. Students who complete their driver license exams through approved DELAP courses in public or private schools will have the results entered into FLHSMV’s test records by their driver education teacher. The exam results will be used for issu- ance of a learner’s driver license or driver license. However, the driver license service center may test any student again on a random basis before issuing a driver license. THIRD PARTY TESTING The Class E Knowledge Exam is also available through third party providers approved by FLHSMV. Students of all ages may take the exams with a provider that offers them in an in-person setting. Students under 18 may take the knowl- edge exam online. A list of approved third party providers can be found at flhsmv.gov. License Examinations Persons applying for an original Florida driver license are required to take the following exams: ◆ Vision & Hearing Screening ◆ Class E Knowledge Exam ◆ Driving Skills Test For a list of exceptions, where exams are waived, see page 4. VISION SCREENING You must wear corrective lenses when you drive if you need to wear contact lenses or glasses to pass the vision test. (The use of telescopic lenses to meet visual standards is not recognized in Florida.) Your driving privilege will be revoked if you are unable to meet the minimum vision standards. ◆ 20/40 or better vision in each eye with or without corrective lenses meets state requirements without referral to an eye specialist. ◆ 20/50 or worse vision in either eye with or without corrective lenses are referred to an eye specialist for possible improvement. ◆ 20/70 vision in either eye, or both eyes together may pass after referral to an eye specialist, providing the vision in the worst eye is better than 20/200. ◆ If one eye is blind or 20/200 or worse, the other eye must be 20/40 or better with or without corrective lenses. ◆ The minimum acceptable field of vision for an applicant or licensed driver is 130 degrees. 20 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� CLASS E KNOWLEDGE EXAM The Class E Knowledge Exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions about: 1. Florida traffic laws, 2. Safe driving practices, and 3. Identifying traffic controls. DRIVING SKILLS TEST You must provide a vehicle (with a valid license plate and insurance) for the driving skills test. Your vehicle will be inspected to determine that it is safe for a driving test. The driving skills test will not be given if the examiner finds: ◆ Horn, rear-view mirror, directional signals, steering wheel, brakes, tires, brake lights, or tail lights are defective or inoperable. ◆ No windshield wipers on the driver’s side. ◆ No operable headlights when visibility is reduced. ◆ Cracked or broken glass that hinders visibility. ◆ Expired tag. ◆ The vehicle doesn’t have doors. ◆ Front doors don’t open from the inside and outside. ◆ Vehicle doesn't have stationary seats. ◆ Vehicle does not permit the driver to give hand signals when required. ◆ Jeep-type vehicles without framed canvas or metal doors held by hinges and door latch. ◆ Doesn’t meet bumper height requirements. ◆ A low-speed vehicle. No other passengers are permitted during the exam (unless a language interpreter is necessary). You will per- form the following maneuvers on the driving exam: ◆ Approach of Crossing. Get in the proper lane and look in each direction. ◆ Backing Up. Back up a distance of 50 feet at a slow speed while looking to the rear. Do not use the rear-view mirror or rear-view camera monitor. ◆ Follow at a Safe Distance. Do not follow too closely behind other cars. Keep a minimum following distance of three to four seconds. ◆ Obey Stop Signs. Approach in the proper lane, come to a complete stop before reaching the stop line or crosswalk, and remain stopped until you can move safely. ◆ Obey Traffic Signals. Get into the proper lane and approach the light at a speed that will allow you to stop if the light should change. When the light turns green, do not move forward until other traffic has cleared the intersection. ◆ Observe Right-of-Way. Allow pedestrians to cross, pull over and stop for emergency vehicles, and don’t enter an intersection where you will interfere with other traffic. ◆ Parking on a Grade. Correctly parking uphill and downhill, with and without a curb. ◆ Passing. Look ahead and behind to make sure you can pass safely. ◆ Signal and Turn. Get into the proper lane and signal your turn for the last 100 feet. Use hand signals or mechanical signals. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 21 ........................................................................ Driving schooLs & TesT ProviDers ◆ Stay in Proper Lane. Drive in the right lane except on a one-way street. Do not change lanes until you may do so safely. ◆ Stop Quickly. Make a quick, safe stop when the examiner/agent instructs you. ◆ Straight-In Parking. The vehicle should be centered inside the space with no part of the vehicle extending out in the traffic lane. ◆ Three Point Turn. Turn car around in a 20–40 foot space. ◆ Use Proper Posture. Keep both hands on the steering wheel and do not rest your elbow in the window. The examiner will explain any mistakes you may have made after the test is com- pleted. If you fail the driving skills test, you will be asked to study or practice before returning for retesting. If you pass the driving skills test, the examiner will collect the fee and issue your driver license. 22 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 23 YOUR DRIVING PRIVILEGE Driving in Florida is a privilege you earn. In addition to the rules of the road, you must also abide by the following laws in order to maintain your driving privilege. Insurance Laws Florida law requires drivers and vehicle owners to maintain insurance to cover costs in case of a crash. These laws include the No-Fault Law and Financial Responsibility Law. No-Fault Law Before you register your car in Florida, you must show proof of Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and Property Damage Liability (PDL) coverage. PIP covers your injuries if you’re in a crash, no matter who caused it. PDL coverage pays for damage to other people’s property that you caused. Every owner or person in charge of operating a motor vehicle on Florida roadways must: ◆ provide proof of valid PIP and PDL insurance at the time of vehicle registration; ◆ have a minimum of $10,000 in PIP AND a minimum of $10,000 in PDL coverage; ◆ purchase the policy from an insurance agency licensed to do business in Florida; ◆ maintain the insurance continuously throughout the registration period; and ◆ always have proof of valid Florida insurance readily available when the vehicle is being driven on Florida roadways. You must comply if you own a motor vehicle that has been in the state for 90 days (consecutive or non-consecutive) during the last 365 days. You must maintain proper insurance or your driver license/license plate registration can be suspended. Your insurance company is required by law to notify FLHSMV when you renew your policy, if you fail to renew it when due, if the vehicle is removed from the policy that has a valid registration, or if the policy is canceled either by you or the insurance com- pany. If you don’t renew your coverage, it is canceled or if a vehicle is removed from a policy, FLHSMV will send you a notice that you must provide proof of new coverage. If you fail to provide proof of new insurance, your driver license and license plate can be suspended for up to three years. If you don’t maintain insurance coverage throughout the vehicle registration period, you must turn in the vehicle license plate to any driver license service center. Turn in your plate before canceling your insurance to prevent the suspension of your license and to avoid reinstatement fees. Always carry proof of insurance when you or someone else is driving your vehicle. Your insurance company will provide you with a Florida Insurance ID Card. You must have the card (or electronic proof on a smart phone) with you when you’re driving. You may receive a citation if you are stopped by a law enforcement officer and don’t have proof of insurance with you. You’ll have to go to court to prove that you had insurance

24 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� coverage at the time you were stopped, or your driver license may be suspended. If you don’t have proof and the judge convicts you, your driver license and license plate will be suspended. In order to lift the suspension, you will have to get insurance and pay a reinstatement fee ($150 to $500). If your driver license and license plate have been under suspension for 30 days or more, a law enforcement officer can seize your license plate immediately. The officer may also take you to jail for driv- ing with a suspended license, which is a first-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine. If your driver license or license plate is suspended for not having insurance, you won’t be able to get a temporary license for any reason, not even to go to work. If you show a law enforcement officer an insurance card when you know the insurance has been canceled—or if you falsify the card—you may be arrested and charged with a second-degree misdemeanor. FLHSMV will provide you with an opportu- nity to prove insurance coverage or have an administrative hearing. When you receive the notice of suspension of your license you may request a hearing; other- wise, one will not be scheduled for you. Financial Responsibility Law In addition to the required PIP and PDL coverage, if you’re in a crash, you will have to prove that you are financially responsible for all damages you caused. You can prove such financial responsibil- ity by having insurance in effect from a company licensed to do business in Florida, or obtaining a Financial Responsibility Certificate from FLHSMV. Get more information about Financial Responsibility Certificates at flhsmv.gov. Depending on your driving record, you may have to obtain additional insurance beyond the basic PIP and PDL require- ments. For example, Florida law requires you to have Bodily Injury Liability (BIL) insurance—and increased PDL cover- age—when you are convicted of Driving Under the Influence (DUI). The coverage required in such a case must be at least $100,000 BIL for injuries to one person, $300,000 BIL for injuries to two or more people, and $50,000 PDL. This higher coverage must be in effect for three years after your DUI conviction. The higher limits will no longer apply if you are not convicted of another DUI or any felony traffic offense during that three- year period. Other higher coverage limits are required by law if: your driver license is suspended for accumulation of excessive points for infractions; you cause a crash and people were injured; your driver license was revoked for Habitual Traffic Offender status; or your driver license was revoked for any serious offense. The required coverage for these cases are $10,000 BIL for injuries to one person, $20,000 BIL for injuries to two or more people, $10,000 PDL; OR $30,000 combined single limits. If you do not provide proof of higher coverage limits, your driver license and/ or license plates will be suspended for up to three years. In addition, if you are the driver or the owner of a vehicle involved in a crash that is your fault, FLHSMV can require you to pay for the damages before your driving privilege is reinstated. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 25 ............................................................................................. Your Driving PriviLege Restrictions for Minors (Driving Curfews) ◆ Minors holding a learner’s license must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or older, and must only drive during daylight hours. After 3 months you may drive until 10 pm. ◆ A 16-year-old licensed driver may not drive between 11 pm and 6 am unless driving to or from work or accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or older. ◆ A 17-year-old licensed driver may not drive between 1 am and 5 am, unless driving to or from work or accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or older. Violations of the Driver License Law You can be put in jail or required to pay a fine for the following offenses: ◆ Altering your license in any way. ◆ Unlawful use of your license. ◆ Allowing your license to be used by another person. ◆ Making a fraudulent application for a driver license or ID card. ◆ Having more than one credential (US driver license or ID card). ◆ Allowing an unlicensed person to use your car, or renting a motor vehicle to someone without a license. ◆ Giving false statements to law enforcement or in a courtroom. ◆ Knowingly giving false information in crash reports. Disabled Parking Permit Violations If you have a mobility impairment, you don’t have to pay parking fees on any public street, highway, or metered space and may park in spaces reserved for persons with disabilities. However, you must display a disabled parking permit or plate to park in these designated spaces and the vehicle must actually be transporting the person with the disabil- ity who owns the permit or registration. Anyone who obtains or uses a permit that does not belong to them can be charged with a second degree misdemeanor, pun- ishable by a $500 fine or up to 6 months in jail, and the illegally parked vehicle can be towed and the permit confiscated. Driving Under the Influence (DUI) You can be charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI) if you are found to be driving or in physical control of a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcoholic beverages, controlled sub- stances, prescriptions, or over-the- counter medications. At the time of arrest, your license will be administratively suspended if you have a breath or blood alcohol level (BAL) of .08 or above, or refuse to submit to a breath/ blood alcohol test. IMPLIED CONSENT LAW You will be asked to take a blood test, a urine test, or a breath test if a law enforcement officer has reasonable cause to believe that you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs while driv- ing. By law, you have agreed by signing your driver license to take these tests if asked. 26 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� If you refuse to take the tests when asked, your license will automatically be suspended for one year. A second refusal will result in an 18 month suspension and a first degree misdemeanor. In DUI cases involving death or serious injury, you will be required to take a blood test with or without your consent. The blood must be drawn by a doctor, nurse, or other health professional. Blood may be drawn if you are unconscious. PENALTIES FOR DUI First DUI Conviction ◆ Fine: $500–$1,000 (BAL .15 or higher or minor in the vehicle, not less than $1,000 or more than $2,000). ◆ Community Service: 50 hours. ◆ Probation: Up to 1 year. ◆ Imprisonment: Not more than 6 months (BAL .15 or higher or minor in the vehicle, not more than 9 months). ◆ License Revocation: Minimum 180 days. ◆ DUI School: 12 hours. ◆ Evaluation conducted to determine need for treatment for addiction. ◆ Ignition Interlock Device: if court ordered (if BAL .15 or higher, or minor in the vehicle, at least six continuous months). Second DUI Offense/Conviction ◆ Fine: $1,000–$2,000 (BAL .15 or higher or minor in the vehicle, not less than $2,000 or more than $4,000). ◆ Imprisonment: Not more than 9 months. ◆ License Revocation: Minimum 180 days. ◆ DUI School: 21 hours. ◆ Evaluation conducted to determine need for treatment for addiction. ◆ Ignition Interlock Device: At least one continuous year. Third DUI Offense/Conviction ◆ Fine: $2,000–$5,000 (BAL .15 or higher or minor in the vehicle, not less than $4,000). ◆ Imprisonment: Not more than 12 months. ◆ License Revocation: Minimum 180 days. ◆ DUI School: 21 hours. ◆ Evaluation conducted to determine need for treatment for addiction. ◆ Ignition Interlock Device: At least two continuous years. ZERO TOLERANCE Any driver under 21 years of age who is stopped by law enforcement and has a BAL of .02 or higher will automatically have their driving privilege suspended for six months. Any driver under 21 with a BAL of .05 or higher is required to attend a substance abuse course. An evaluation will be completed and parents or legal guardians will be noti- fied of the results for all drivers under the age of 19. Florida law states that if you are convicted of possessing, selling, or trafficking in drugs, including marijuana, your driver license must be suspended. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 27 ............................................................................................. Your Driving PriviLege Additionally, if drugs are in your vehicle because you are using your car to transport, sell, or distribute drugs, or to assist in committing any other felony, then your car may be seized and forfeited to the arresting agency as contraband. Littering It is a crime to dump litter from a motor vehicle in any amount on any highway, road or street. If you throw litter up to 15 pounds onto roadways, you can be fined $100. If you throw more than 15 pounds of litter, you can be charged with a first- degree misdemeanor, fined up to $1,000, and receive 3 points on your driving record. The court may also require you to pick up litter along roadways. Passing a Stopped School Bus Penalties for passing a stopped school bus include: ◆ Moving violation subject to citation; ◆ Must complete a basic driver improvement course; ◆ Four points on your driver license; ◆ Minimum fine of $265, if you pass on the side where children enter and exit, you will receive a mini- mum fine of $465. If passing results in the serious injury or death of another person, penalties include: ◆ Serve 120 community service hours in a trauma center or hospital; ◆ Participate in a victim’s impact panel or driver improvement course; ◆ Six points on your driver license; ◆ Suspension of license for a mini- mum of one year; and ◆ A $1,500 fine. For additional information on when a school bus may be passed, see page 88. Road Damage It is against the law to damage the roads by driving on the rim of a flat tire or by any other means. Safety Belts and Child Passenger Safety SAFETY BELTS Safety belts save lives, but only if worn correctly every time you are in a motor vehicle! You are far more likely to be killed in a crash if you are not wearing a safety belt. In a crash, your safety belt keeps you: ◆ from being ejected from the vehicle; ◆ from being thrown against other passengers, your steering wheel, or windshield; and ◆ behind the wheel, where you can control the vehicle. Wear both the lap belt and the shoulder belt. Wear your lap belt around your hips and wear your shoulder belt across your chest. Your safety belt will not work if it is tucked behind you. Airbags are not a substitute for safety belts! CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY SEATS/ RESTRAINTS The best child seat is one that fits your child, fits your car, and that you can use correctly every time. Read the car seat’s instruction manual and the portion of your vehicle’s owner manual on car seat installation. Children under 13 should be 28 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� secured in the rear seat because airbags can injure or kill young children in the front seat. Never place a rear-facing car seat in front of an airbag. It is the parent or guardian’s responsibil- ity to supply a proper child restraint when transporting a child in a vehicle for hire (e.g., taxi, bus, limousine). FLORIDA LAW REQUIRES: ◆ All drivers, front seat passengers, and passengers under the age of 18 wear safety belts*. ◆ Children under age 4 must be in a safety seat and children ages 4 and 5 must be in either a safety seat or a booster seat. Drivers will be charged with a safety belt/ child restraint violation if any passenger under 18 is not properly restrained. Passengers 18 years old or older will be charged with the violation if they fail to wear a safety belt when required by law. In Need of Car Seat Assistance? Whether you've just installed a car seat, or need help installing or using one, get help at a car seat fitting station near you. Certified techni- cians will check your car seat (free of charge in most cases) and will show you how to correctly install it. Find a Florida Fitting Station: www.floridaoprc.ce.ufl.edu/oprc/ Fitting_Stations.asp Passengers on a school bus equipped with safety belts or restraint systems shall wear a properly adjusted and fas- tened safety belt or restraint at all times while the school bus is in operation. EXEMPTIONS Florida law exempts the following from the safety belt requirements: ◆ A person certified by a physician as having a medical condition that causes safety belt use to be inappropriate or dangerous. (Keep a copy of certification while driving or riding in a motor vehicle.) ◆ Employee of a newspaper home delivery service while delivering newspapers. ◆ School buses purchased new prior to December 31, 2000. ◆ Buses used for transportation of persons for compensation. ◆ Farm equipment. ◆ Trucks of a net weight of more than 26,000 pounds. ◆ A safety belt (without booster seat) may only be used for children 4–5 years of age when the driver is not a member of the child’s immediate family and the child is being transported as a favor or in an emergency. *Some exemptions apply to cars manufactured prior to 1968 and trucks prior to 1972. Speeding Speeding endangers everyone on the road. Obeying speed limits and not driving aggressively improves safety by reducing the probability and severity of crashes. All motorists must obey speed limits and are responsible for knowing the speed limit on the roadway. In Florida, the speed limit will never be higher than 70 mph. Speeding citations can result in fines and points on your driving record. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 29 ............................................................................................. Your Driving PriviLege ◆ The fine for exceeding the speed limit by more than 50 MPH is $1,000 for the first offense and $2,500 for the second. ◆ Fines are doubled when speeding infractions occur within a school zone or construction zone, with possible civil penalties up to $1,000, and you can be required to complete a driving course. Traffic Crashes If you are charged in a crash, you may have to go to court. The law enforcement officer who comes to the scene of the crash will file charges against any driver who violated a traffic law. Those charged will have a chance to be heard in court. The court will then decide the penalty. Others who were present at the crash may have to come to court as a witness. If you are found at fault in a crash where anyone was injured and transported to a medical treatment facility, or it is your second collision in a two-year period, you will be required by law to attend a Traffic Collision Avoidance Course. THREE CRASHES IN THREE YEARS LAW If you were convicted of, or pleaded nolo contendre (no contest) to your third traffic offense that caused a crash within 36 months, you must complete a FLHSMV- approved driver improvement course that includes behind-the-wheel training and an assessment of your driving safety. You must: ◆ complete a 12 hour Advanced Driver Improvement (ADI) course; ◆ receive 4 hours of behind-the- wheel training from a Florida licensed commercial driving school (CDS); and ◆ pass the extended driving test with a driver license examiner. Failure to complete requirements within 90 days will result in license cancellation. Point System There are infractions that can cause the loss or restriction of your driving privi- leges. You receive points for moving violations. If you accumulate too many points in a certain period of time, your license will be suspended and can be revoked. ◆ 12 points within a 12-month period—30 day suspension ◆ 18 points within a 18-month period—3 month suspension ◆ 24 points within a 36-month period—1 year suspension The motorist receives the same number of points listed if the conviction occurs out-of-state or in a federal court. Mandatory Restriction for Minors Any driver under the age of 18 who accu- mulates 6 or more points within a 12 month period is automatically restricted for one year to driving for Business Purposes Only. If additional points are accumulated, the restriction is extended for 90 days for every additional point received. 30 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� Common Violations and Associated Point Value Following is a list of common violations and the associated point value. Violation Points Unlawful speed 15 MPH or less over lawful or posted speed 3 Unlawful speed 16 MPH or more over lawful or posted speed 4 Unlawful speed resulting in a crash 6 Leaving the scene of a crash resulting in property damage of more than $50 6 Texting while driving 3 Texting occurred in a school zone (points added to the primary offense) +3* Texting resulted in a crash +6* Violation of traffic signal/sign/device 4 Passing a stopped school bus 4 Passing a stopped school bus resulting in serious injury or death 6 Reckless driving 4 Driving during restricted hours 3 Using a handheld device in a school crossing, school zone or work zone 3 *Points added to primary offense. Losing the Privilege to Drive Every driver who obtains a license must drive safely to keep it. If you break laws or become an unsafe driver, your license can be suspended, revoked, or canceled. The following table includes some—but not all—of the reasons one can lose the privilege to drive. Resolve your traffic citations in a timely manner so that you do not lose your driving privilege. Note: Forfeiting bail and not going to court to avoid being convicted of reckless driving counts the same as a conviction. Suspensions Your license will be SUSPENDED (temporary withdrawal of driving privilege) if you: ◆ Make a fraudulent driver license application. ◆ Allow your license to be used for a purpose that is against the law. ◆ Are convicted in traffic court and the court orders your license be suspended. ◆ Refuse to take a test to show if you are driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 31 ............................................................................................. Your Driving PriviLege ◆ Misuse a restricted license. ◆ Earn a certain number of points for traffic offenses on the point system. ◆ Break a traffic law and fail to pay the fine or appear in court as directed. ◆ Fail to pay child support. ◆ Fail to carry vehicle insurance. ◆ Fail to stop for a school bus. ◆ Commit retail theft. ◆ Are non-compliant with education requirements (school dropout). Revocations Your license must be REVOKED (termi- nation of driving privilege) if you are found guilty of (or department records show): ◆ Driving while under the influence of alcohol, drugs or other con- trolled substances. ◆ A felony where a motor vehicle is used. ◆ Not stopping to help when the vehicle you are driving is involved in a crash causing death or personal injury. ◆ Lying about the ownership or operation of motor vehicles. ◆ Three cases of reckless driving within one year. ◆ An immoral act in which a motor vehicle was used. ◆ Three major offenses or 15 offenses for which you receive points within a 5-year period. ◆ A felony for drug possession. ◆ Your vision is worse than the standard minimum requirements. ◆ Racing on the highway. Cancellations Your license can be CANCELED (void and terminated) if: ◆ Your license was issued in error. ◆ You give false information or identification. ◆ You fail to complete a required school. Administrative Hearings If your driving privilege is suspended or revoked, you may be eligible to apply for a hardship license or reinstatement. For eligibility information, contact the local Bureau of Administrative Reviews (BAR) office, driver license service center, or the FLHSMV Customer Service Center. To schedule an administrative hearing go to MyDMVPortal.flhsmv.gov. If you are administratively suspended for a breath or blood alcohol level of .08 or above, or refuse to submit to a breath, urine, or blood test and wish to appeal this suspension, you must apply for a formal or informal review hearing at the appropriate BAR office within 10 days of your date of arrest. A first time DUI offender who has never had prior DUI related offenses, may be eligible to request a review of eligibility for a restricted driver license. By accept- ing a restricted driver license, the driver agrees to waive the right to a review of the suspension. To elect this option, the driver must appear at a BAR office within 10 days of the DUI arrest, and request the waiver review option and pay a non-re- fundable fee. 32 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 33 BEFORE YOU DRIVE—YOU THE DRIVER Driving an automobile is a huge responsibility. In order to drive safely, you must be fully engaged: hands on the wheel, eyes on the road, and mind on driving. Anything that affects your physical or mental condition can impair your ability to drive. Physical Health It's important to get regular vision, hearing, and general physical check-ups. Get treatment for illnesses and avoid driving when sick. Remember that whenever you are prescribed medication, you should ask your doctor or pharmacist how it can affect your driving. Considerations for Older Drivers As we age, physical changes require us to adapt so that we can continue to drive safely. Older drivers should: ◆ Get regular medical and eye exams to identify physical and mental conditions that may affect driving; ◆ Ask the doctor or pharmacist how medications—especially when taken in combination with other medications—affect driving; ◆ Consult with a doctor about an exercise program to maintain the flexibility and strength needed for safe driving; ◆ Make vehicle adjustments as necessary. ◆ If it's difficult to turn the steering wheel, consider getting a steering knob. ◆ If you have difficulty turning your head to check blind spots, consider getting a larger side mirror; ◆ If it's difficult to buckle up; consider an assistive device to help reach the belt. ◆ Avoid wearing sunglasses in dim or dark conditions; and ◆ Avoid risky driving times: ◆ Dusk, dawn, and nighttime. ◆ Bad weather. ◆ Rush-hour traffic. ◆ Fast-paced highways. The Florida Safe Mobility for Life program provides information and resources to raise awareness and to improve the safety, access, and mobility needs of Florida’s aging road users. Resources available provide education for older adults, families, caregivers, and community partners on how to achieve safe mobility for life. To learn more, please visit safemobilityfl.com.

34 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� Distracted Driving Distracted driving is extremely risky behavior that puts you and your passengers in danger, as well as pedestrians and bicyclists sharing the road. Focused attention on driving helps to prevent crashes. There are three main categories of driver distraction: Categories of Distraction 1. Visual—taking your eyes off the road 2. Manual—taking your hands off the steering wheel 3. Cognitive—thinking about anything other than driving Texting involves all three categories of distractions, making it one of the most dan- gerous of distracted driving behaviors.* However, this is not the only cause of distracted driving. Other common distractions include: ◆ talking on a cell phone; ◆ watching an object, person, or event outside of the vehicle; ◆ reaching for an object; ◆ interacting with passengers; ◆ eating or drinking; ◆ unsecured pets; ◆ grooming; ◆ adjusting radio or climate controls; ◆ lighting a cigarette; and/or ◆ daydreaming. * It is illegal in Florida to operate a motor vehicle while texting. Florida law prohibits a person from operating a motor vehicle while using a wireless communications device in a handheld manner in a designated school crossing, school zone, or work zone. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 35 ......................................................................... Before You Drive—You The Driver Drinking & Driving Alcohol reduces all of the skills necessary to drive safely, such as judgment, reac- tion, vision, and concentration. Alcohol is absorbed into the lining of the stomach and then passes directly into the blood- stream and reaches your brain within minutes after consumption. A person’s judgment is the first thing affected after drinking an alcoholic beverage. Even one drink of alcohol can affect your driving. Alcohol slows your reflexes and reaction time, reduces your ability to see clearly, and makes you less alert. You will have trouble judging distance, speed, and movement of other vehicles. You will also have trouble controlling your vehicle. If you drink alcohol—even just one drink—your chances of being in a crash are much greater than if you did not drink any alcohol. No one can drink alcohol and drive safely, even if you have been driving for many years. Because drinking alcohol and driving is so dangerous, the penalties are very tough. People who drive after drinking risk heavy fines, higher insurance rates, loss of driver license, and even jail sen- tences. A DUI (Driving Under the Influence) conviction must remain on your driving record for 75 years. Do Not Drink and Drive! ◆ Before drinking, designate a sober driver. ◆ If you are the designated driver, do not drink. One drink is one too many. ◆ If you are impaired—and did not designate a driver—use a rideshare service, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transporta- tion to get home safely. Remember, friends don’t let friends drive drunk. If you know someone who is about to drive impaired, take their keys and help them get a safe ride home. Drowsy Driving Drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. Do not drive when you are tired. It is risky to drive drowsy because fatigue (being sleepy) can: ◆ slow your thought processes and reaction time; ◆ affect your judgment and vision; ◆ impair your senses and abilities; and/or ◆ cause micro-sleeping (“nodding off”) or falling completely asleep. The two main causes of drowsy driving are lack of quality/quantity of sleep and driving at times of the day when you would normally be sleeping. Avoid driv- ing drowsy! ◆ Don’t drive at times when you would normally be asleep. ◆ Get a good night’s sleep before you travel. ◆ On long trips, take a break every 100 miles or 2 hours. ◆ If you feel sleepy find a safe place to stop and take a nap. ◆ Use the “buddy system” and switch drivers when needed. 36 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� Drugged Driving Driving while impaired by drugs is illegal and subject to the same penalties as driving while impaired by alcohol. Besides alcohol, there are many drugs that can affect a person’s ability to safely operate a vehicle. This is true for many prescription drugs, as well as over-the- counter medications for allergies and colds. If a person is taking medication, they should be sure to check the label for warnings about the medication’s effects prior to driving. If they are not sure it is safe to take the drug and drive, they should ask their doctor or pharma- cist about any side effects. Alcohol and drugs should not be con- sumed at the same time. Mixing alcohol and drugs often multiplies the effects of the alcohol and drugs. For example, one drink, when you are also taking an allergy or cold medication, could have the same effect as several drinks. Illegal drugs and controlled substances, such as marijuana, also affect a person’s reflexes, judgment and alertness along with their many other dangerous side effects. These drugs can give a person a false sense of alertness and self-confi- dence or make a person drowsy and unable to react to simple situations. Emotions Emotions can have an effect on driving safely. You may not be able to drive safely if you are worried, excited, crying, angry, or depressed. Emotions can distract you from your driving because your mind is focused on other issues, not driving. Your emotional state can alter the way you react—or overreact—to driving situations. Take time to calm down and get focused before driving. Road Rage Road rage is violent or visibly angry behavior by a driver which can result in crashes or other incidents on roadways. Signs include: ◆ sudden acceleration or braking, ◆ following too closely; ◆ cutting off other drivers; ◆ preventing other vehicles from merging into your lane; ◆ excessively hitting the horn or flashing headlights; ◆ shouting obscenities or threats; ◆ making obscene hand gestures; ◆ intentionally causing a crash; ◆ getting out of a vehicle in an attempt to start a confrontation; ◆ using a weapon or threatening to use a weapon; and/or ◆ throwing objects from the vehicle. If another driver is threatening you or intentionally driving dangerously around you, remain calm and try to put as much distance between you and them as possible. Slow down and let them pass. Do not make eye contact; do not make obscene gestures. If you need help, call *FHP (*347) or 911. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 37 BEFORE YOU DRIVE—YOUR VEHICLE Vehicle Registration The vehicle you own must have a Florida registration certificate and license plate. Non-residents who accept employment or engages in a trade, profession or occupation in Florida; or enrolls children to be educated in a Florida public school, must obtain the registration certificate and license plate within 10 days after beginning employment or enrollment. You also must have a Florida Certificate of Title for your vehicle unless an out-of-state lien holder/lessor holds the title and will not release it to Florida. To get a registration certificate and license plate, you must show proof of Florida insurance (in most cases, you need a Florida driver license to get insurance.) You must also prove that you own your vehicle by showing your certifi- cate of title. The vehicle identification number (VIN) on any vehicle previously titled or regis- tered in another state must be verified by one of several designated officials before the vehicle can be titled and registered in Florida. VIN verification is not required on any new vehicles (regard- less of whether purchased in Florida or out-of-state), or new/used mobile homes, trailer type recreational vehicles (travel trailers, camp trailers, truck campers, and fifth wheel recreational trailers), or trailers and semi-trailers with a weight of less than 2,000 pounds. Applying for Title, License Plates & Registration Apply for title, license plates, and regis- tration at any service center in Florida. The cost of your license plate will depend on the type and weight of your vehicle. Your vehicle must always have a current license plate and you must always have your vehicle’s registration when you are driving. If you buy a vehicle from a dealer in Florida, the dealer must apply for a certificate of title, certificate of registration and license plate for you. If you buy a vehicle from an individual, you must obtain the title from the indi- vidual and apply for a certificate of title in your name. You may apply for a certificate of title, certificate of registration, and license plate at the same time. You cannot get a license plate until you have a title to prove that you own the vehicle. All first time driver license applicants who hold an out-of-state license should apply for a Florida driver license before they regis- ter their vehicle in Florida (many service centers will do both at the same time). Renewal Vehicle license plates and registrations must be renewed each year or biennially. Registrations expire at midnight on the birthday of the first owner listed on the registration form, except for: ◆ mobile homes and semi-trucks/ semi-trailers renew yearly by December 31. ◆ vehicles owned by companies and corporations and some CMVs renew yearly by June 30. Registrations may be renewed up to 90 days prior to the expiration date. Each time you renew, you must prove that you have the required insurance, unless it’s on file and electronically updated. 38 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� Equipment Standards The equipment on your car must meet certain standards. You may be stopped at any time by law enforcement for a vehicle inspection. Required Equipment Equipment Specifications Brakes Two braking systems. Each must be able to stop the car alone. The parking or emergency brake should be strong enough to hold the car on any hill. Low Beam Headlights Show objects 150 feet ahead. Visible from 1,000 feet. High Beam Headlights Show objects 450 feet ahead. Visible from 1,000 feet. Taillights Two red taillights. Visible from 1,000 feet. Brake Lights Two red brake lights. Visible from 300 feet in the daytime. License Plate Light White light that makes the license plate visible from 50 feet. Directional Signals Amber; or white (front) or red (rear). Visible from 500 feet. Horn Heard from a distance of 200 feet. Mirrors At least one rear-view mirror with view 200 feet to the rear. Windshield Wiper In good working order to clear the driver’s view. Windshields* Must be safety glass and may not be covered or treated with any material that makes the windshield reflective or non-transparent. Must be free of any stickers not required by law. Side & Rear Windows* May not be composed of, covered by, or treated with any material which has a mirrored appearance or reflects more than 25% of the light (side windows) or more than 35% of the light (rear window). Tires Should have a minimum tread of at least 3/32 of an inch or greater, and no worn spots showing the ply. *See Florida Statues (FS) §316.2953 and FS §316.2954 for details on window tint restrictions Equipment NOT Permitted ◆ Red lights visible from front or blue lights. For emergency/law enforcement vehicles only. ◆ More than two spotlights, cowl or fender lights, fog lights, or other extra lights. ◆ A siren, bell, or whistle. ◆ A very loud muffler (heard from more than 50 feet) or one that emits smoke. ◆ Signs, posters, or stickers on the windshield or windows (except if required by law). The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 39 ............................................................................ Before You Drive—Your vehicLe ◆ A “television-type receiver” that the driver can see. ◆ Headsets/headphones worn by driver while operating a vehicle. Read your vehicle owner’s manual! It's an excellent resource for information specific to your vehicle, such as: types of fluids your car requires, what dashboard warning lights mean, your car service intervals and more. Air Bags Air bags are designed to work with safety belts to protect occupants during a collision. Air bags are NOT a replace- ment for wearing a safety belt. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) It’s important to understand that some driver assistance technologies are designed to warn you if you’re at risk of an impending crash, while others are designed to take action to avoid a crash. Be sure to review your vehicle’s owner’s manual for information on your vehicle’s technology and safety features. COLLISION WARNING SYSTEMS Collision Warning Systems only provide warnings to drivers and do NOT take action to avoid a crash. ◆ Blind Spot Warning systems alert drivers with an audio or visual warning if there are vehicles in adjacent lanes that the driver may not see when making a lane change. ◆ Forward Collision Warning systems monitor your vehicle’s speed, the speed of the vehicle in front of it and the distance be- tween the vehicles. If the vehicle gets too close to the vehicle ahead, the system will warn the driver of an impending crash. ◆ Lane Departure Warning systems monitor lane markings and alerts the driver when it detects that the vehicle is drifting out of its lane. ◆ Rear Cross Traffic Warning alerts the driver of potential collisions, while in reverse, that may be outside the view of the backup camera. COLLISION INTERVENTION SYSTEMS Collision Intervention Systems are designed to take action to avoid a crash. ◆ Automatic Emergency Braking systems apply the vehicle’s brakes automatically in time to avoid or mitigate an impending forward crash with another vehicle. ◆ Blind Spot Intervention systems monitor for vehicles in the driver’s blind spot using rear-facing cameras or proximity sensors. If the driver ignores the blind spot warning, and starts to change to a lane where there’s a vehicle, the system activates and automatically applies light braking pressure, or provides steering input to guide the vehicle back into the original lane. ◆ Pedestrian Automatic Emergency Braking systems use information from forward sensors to detect a pedestrian in the vehicle’s path. The system will provide automatic braking if the driver has not acted to avoid a crash. ◆ Rear Automatic Braking uses sensors, like parking sensors and the backup camera, to detect 40 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� objects behind the vehicle. If a potential collision is detected while in reverse, it automatically applies the brakes if a crash is imminent. DRIVING CONTROL ASSISTANCE ◆ Adaptive Cruise Control automat- ically adjusts the vehicle’s speed to keep a pre-set distance between it and the vehicle in front of it. ◆ Lane Centering Assistance utilizes a camera-based vision system designed to monitor the vehicle’s lane position and auto- matically and continuously apply steering inputs needed to keep the vehicle centered within its lane. ◆ Lane Keeping Assistance systems use lane departure warning sensors to determine if the vehicle is about to unintentionally move out of its lane of travel. If so, the system activates and corrects the steering, brakes or accelerates one or more of the wheels, or does a combina- tion of both, resulting in the vehicle returning to its intended lane of travel. OTHER SYSTEMS ◆ Automatic Crash Notification systems notify emergency respond- ers that a crash has occurred and provide its location. In most cases, when the system detects that an air bag has deployed or that there’s been a dramatic and sudden deceleration, the system automati- cally connects to an operator, who will then be able to communicate with the driver. The operator is also able to collect basic information from the vehicle, without driver input, to provide to emergency responders so they can easily locate the scene of the crash. ◆ Automatic High Beams automati- cally switch the vehicle’s headlights between the lower beam and the higher beam, based on lighting conditions and traffic, when an oncoming vehicle approaches. This technology, also known as semi- automatic beam switching head- lamps, uses photometric sensors or onboard cameras to detect when to switch between high and low beams. ◆ Backup Cameras, or rearview video systems, helps prevent backover crashes. By providing an image of the area behind the vehicle, a backup camera helps the driver see behind the vehicle while in reverse. It’s important to remember that backup cameras are not a replacement for mirrors or turning around to look. Additional information on ADAS is avail- able at mycardoeswhat.org. Brake Systems Anti-lock brake system (ABS) prevents skidding and allows drivers to steer during an emergency braking situation. ABS can help improve vehicle stability, steering, and stopping capability. It is important to know if your vehicle has ABS because it will affect the way you should stop in an emergency situation. Drivers with ABS need to press down hard on the brake pedal, hold it, and steer out of danger. In an emergency situation, the ABS automatically pumps the brakes at a faster rate than the driver could. Removing steady pressure from the brake pedal or pumping the brakes will disengage or “turn off” the ABS. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 41 ............................................................................ Before You Drive—Your vehicLe Drivers with conventional brakes must pump the brakes in order to stop in an emergency situation where traction is lost and the vehicle slides. You can determine if the vehicle has ABS by looking for a lighted ABS symbol on the dashboard after starting the engine, checking the owner’s manual, or asking the dealer. Bumper Height Requirements Owners of automobiles and pickup trucks are required to have front and rear bumpers mounted within certain height levels. Height limitations are governed by the net ship- ping weight of the vehicle, not the modified or altered weight. The maximum allowable height between the pavement and bottom of the front and rear bumper are: Vehicle Weight Front Rear Cars < 2,500 lbs. 22 in. 22 in. Cars 2,500–3,499 lbs. 24 in. 26 in. Cars ≥ 3,500 lbs. 27 in. 29 in. Trucks < 2,000 lbs. 24 in. 26 in. Trucks 2,000–3,000 lbs. 27 in. 29 in. Trucks 3,000–5,000 lbs. 28 in. 30 in. Emissions Control Devices It is illegal to tamper with, remove, or cause not to work, any pollution control device on your vehicle. Tampering can cause damage your vehicle, increased air pollution, lower gas mileage, less vehicle efficiency and breathing difficulties. Trailers, Towing, & Load EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS: ◆ Trailer, semitrailer or pole trailer weighing 3,000 pounds or less: ◆ Two rear reflectors, one at each side.* ◆ A brake light if the trailer or load blocks/hides the brake lights on the towing vehicle. ◆ Trailer or semitrailer weighing more than 3,000 pounds: ◆ Two front clearance lamps, one at each side. ◆ Two side marker lamps, one at or near the front and one at or near the rear. ◆ Two reflectors, one at or near the front and one at or near the rear*. ◆ Two rear clearance lamps, one on each side, 42 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� ◆ Brakes that can be operated by the driver in the towing vehicle. The brakes must be designed and connected to automatically stop the trailer if it breaks away from the towing vehicle. ◆ Pole trailer weighing more than 3,000 pounds: ◆ Two side marker lamps, one on each side ◆ Two clearance lamps, one on each side. ◆ Two rear reflectors, one on each side.* * Every motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, and pole trailer must have two or more stop lamps (one stop lamp is permitted on vehicles built before January 1, 1972). DRAWBAR OR TOWING CONNECTION The drawbar/towing connection must: ◆ be strong enough to pull all towed weight; ◆ not be more than 15 feet long unless you are towing poles, pipes, machinery, or other objects that cannot be easily taken apart; and ◆ have a white flag at least 12 inches square attached to it if it is chain, rope, or cable. SECURING THE LOAD You must not drive or move any loaded vehicle on the highway if the load is not secure. The load must not be able to drop, shift, leak, or otherwise escape. ◆ You must use a close-fitting cover when hauling loads which could fall or blow onto the roadway (e.g., dirt, sand, gravel). ◆ Every truck carrying logs or pulp- wood must use lock chains to securely fasten the load. PROJECTING LOADS A load that extends beyond the sides of a vehicle and more than four feet or more beyond its rear must be clearly marked. During the day, red flags at least 18 inches square must mark the extremities of the load. Requirements from sunset to sun- rise, and during any rain, smoke, or fog include: ◆ two red lamps on the back of the load that can be seen from at least 500 feet to the rear; ◆ two red reflectors on the rear that can be seen from 100 to 600 feet when directly in front of low beam headlights, and located to show the load’s full width; and/or ◆ one red lamp on each side of the load, visible from at least 500 feet to show maximum overhang of the load. If the trailer or motor vehicle is trans- porting logs, pulpwood, poles, or posts that extend more than four feet beyond the rear of the load, you must have one amber strobe-type lamp equipped so that the lamp is visible from the rear and both sides of the projecting load. The lamp must be operational and seen any time of day or night. Passenger vehicles must not be driven on any highway with a load extending beyond the fenders on the left side of the vehicle or extending more than 6 inches beyond the line of the fenders on the right side. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 43 TRAFFIC CONTROLS Pavement Markings Lines, symbols, and words are painted on roadways to help direct drivers and control traffic flow. Know what the differ- ent lines, colors, and symbols mean and obey them. Unless you are turning, exiting a highway, or changing lanes, always stay between the lines marking your lane. Drivers may safely and briefly drive to the left of center on the road- way to overtake a bicycle, other non-motorized vehicle, an electric bicycle, or a pedestrian. Edge Lines Solid lines along the side of the road mark the right or left edge of the roadway. ◆ Single solid white line. Marks the right edge of the roadway. ◆ Single solid yellow line. Marks the left edge of the roadway on divided highways and one-way streets. White Lane Lines White lane lines separate lanes of traffic moving in the same direction. ◆ Single broken white line. You may cross this line to change lanes when it is safe to do so. ◆ Single solid white line. You may travel in the same direction on both sides of this line, but do not cross the line unless you must do so to avoid a hazard. Also used to discourage lane changes near intersections. ◆ Double solid white lines. Crossing a double solid line/ changing lanes is not allowed. Yellow Lane Lines Yellow lane lines separate lanes moving in opposite directions. ◆ Single broken yellow line. Stay to the right of the line. You may cross this line to pass a car ahead of you only when it is safe to do so. Edge Lines and Broken White Line Solid White Line Double White Line Broken Yellow Line

44 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� ◆ Double solid yellow lines. Vehicles moving in either direction must not pass/ cross these lines. (May turn left or pass a bicyclist when it is safe to do so). ◆ Double yellow lines–solid on right (“your side” of line), broken on left. Passing is not allowed in this lane. (May turn left or pass a bicyclist when it is safe to do so). ◆ Double yellow lines–broken on right (“your side” of line), solid on left. Passing is permitted in this lane when safe to do so. Double Yellow Lines Double Yellow Lines—Solid on Right (“Your Side”), Broken on Left Double Yellow Lines—Broken on Right (“Your Side”), Solid on Left The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 45 ...................................................................................................... Traffic conTroLs White Stop Lines Stop lines show where you must stop for a stop sign or red light. You must stop your vehicle before any part of it crosses the line before the crosswalk. Marked Crosswalks Marked with solid white lines and sometimes filled with white diagonal or perpendicular lines. Shows where pedestrians should cross. Motorists must always yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in a crosswalk. Turn Lanes Arrows are often used with white lane lines to show which turn may be made from the lane. ◆ Lane is marked with a curved arrow and the word “ONLY”: you must turn in the direction of the arrow. ◆ Lane is marked with both a curved and straight arrow: you may either turn or go straight. ◆ Two-way roadway with center lane: drivers from either direction may use the center lane for left turns; you must not use for passing. Reversible Lanes Some highways have reversible traffic lanes to help handle rush-hour traffic. The direction of traffic is normally reversed at set times each day. These lanes are marked with special pavement markings, lane signals, and signs. Bicycle Lanes ◆ Exclusive bike lane. Solid white lines separate these bike lanes from motor vehicle travel lanes. Often marked with bike lane signs/symbols. ◆ Shared-use lane. Marked with “sharrows.” These markings alert motorists that bicyclists may use the entire lane, indicate to bicyclists where to ride, and discourage bicycling in the wrong direction. Motorized vehicles are not allowed to drive in bike lanes; they may cross over them when turning at intersections, but only when no bicyclists are present in the bike lane. For additional bicycle safety information, see page 81. White Stop Line and Crosswalk Turn Lanes Center Turn Lane Reversible Lane Bicycle Lane Sharrow 46 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� Other Markings ◆ Curbs are often marked yellow to indicate no parking zones near fire hydrants or intersections. ◆ Yellow or white diagonal stripes mark fixed obstructions (medians, no parking zones, etc.). ◆ It's illegal to park in or drive through areas with pavement markings indicating fire lanes or safety zones. Traffic Signs Traffic signs tell you about traffic rules, hazards, roadway location, roadway direc- tions, and the location of roadway services. The shape, color, symbols and words of these signs give clues to the type of information they provide. Traffic Sign Colors Red: Stop. Do not enter. Wrong way. Yield. Orange: Construction and mainte- nance warning. Yellow: General warning. Advisory of unexpected roadway conditions. Flourescent Yellow Green: High emphasis warning of school, pedes- trian and bicycling activity. White/Black: Regulatory. Control traffic, set limits or give commands. Green: Guide or directional information. Blue: Driver guidance. Also used to identify parking spaces for disabled drivers. Brown: Areas of public recreation, cultural and historical significance. Informational Signs Green Guide Signs. Gives information about directions and distances. East-West routes have even numbers and North-South have odd numbers. In Florida, mile markers indicate your location on an interstate and match with exit numbers. Blue and White Service Signs. Directs you to services, such as gas, food, motels, and hospitals. Brown and White Signs. Direct you to scenic areas, parks, and areas of cultural/ historical significance. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 47 ...................................................................................................... Traffic conTroLs Regulatory Signs Regulatory signs control traffic. They set limits or instruct drivers what they should or should not do and are enforceable by law. Below are common regulatory signs. Stop Sign. You must bring your vehicle to a complete halt. Stop before the stop line, or if there is no stop line, before the crosswalk or intersection at a point near the intersecting road- way where you have a clear view of approaching traffic. All Way Stop. Traffic in all directions must stop. Vehicles proceed through the intersection in the order that they arrived; the first vehicle to reach the inter- section should move forward first. If vehicles arrive at approximately the same time, each driver must yield to the driver on their right. Yield. Slow down. Give vehicles crossing your path the right-of-way. If the way is clear, you may move forward slowly without stopping. Do Not Enter. On one-way streets and roadways where you may not enter. Wrong Way. You are going the wrong way. Turn around immediately. NO symbol. Red circle with red slash. The sign shows what you are not allowed to do. Speed Limit. Your speed must not exceed the posted speed in this area. Exit Speed. This sign lists the maximum safe speed for an exit ramp on an expressway. Slow down to the posted speed. Speeding Fines Doubled. Posted in active school and work zones. Fines will be doubled if you are cited for speeding in this area. Turn Lanes. At the intersec- tion ahead, traffic in the left lane must turn left and traffic in the adjoining lane may turn left or continue straight ahead. Center Turn Lane. The center lane is shared, allow- ing left turns in both directions of travel. Left Lane Must Turn. Traffic in the left lane must turn left at the intersection ahead (also Right Lane Must Turn). Begin Right Turn Lane. When entering a right turn lane you may encounter bicyclists traveling straight; you must yield to the bicyclists. 48 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� No U-Turn. You must not make a complete turn to go in the opposite direction. No Right Turn. You must not make a right turn at this intersection (also No Left Turn). No Turn on Red. You must not turn right or left during the red light. You must wait for the green signal. No Turns. You must not turn either to the right or to the left at this intersection. Must Turn. You can- not go straight ahead. You must turn either to the right or left. One Way. You must travel only in the direction of the arrow. Keep Right. Stay to the right of the divider. Slower Traffic Keep Right. Slower traffic must stay in the right lane unless pass- ing. Slower traffic must move out of the left lane when being overtaken by a faster vehicle. No Passing. You may not pass another vehicle. Pass with Care. You are allowed to pass, but do so with caution. Restricted Lane Ahead. A lane is reserved for certain purposes or certain vehicles, such as buses or carpool vehicles during rush hour traffic. Also used in bike lanes. Emergency Stopping Only. You must only stop for emergencies. No Parking on Pavement. If you stop, you must always park off the pavement of the roadway. Parking by Disabled Permit Only. Parking in this space is only for vehicles displaying an official dis- abled parking permit and transporting a person with a disability. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 49 ...................................................................................................... Traffic conTroLs Warning Signs Warning signs are normally yellow and diamond-shaped. They alert drivers to condi- tions ahead and what to look out for. Below are common warning signs. Traffic Signal Ahead. A traffic signal is at the inter- section ahead. Slow down; poor visibility is likely. Stop Sign Ahead. Slow down and be ready to stop at the stop sign. Yield Ahead. Yield sign ahead. Slow down and be prepared to stop or adjust speed to traffic. Speed Reduction Sign. Advance notice to upcom- ing speed limit change. Advisory Speed Sign. The fastest safe speed you should travel around the curve ahead. Advisory speed signs may be used with any warning sign. Two-Way Traffic Ahead. The roadway is about to change to two-way traffic; there will be oncoming traffic. Merging Traffic. Ahead another traffic lane joins the one you are on. Watch for other traffic and yield the right-of-way when necessary. Reduction of Lanes. The right lane ends and traffic must merge left. Drivers in the left lane should allow others to merge smoothly. Roundabout Circle. Provides advance notice of a roundabout. Prepare to slow down and possibly yield to traffic in the roundabout. Divided Highway Ahead. The highway ahead is divided by a median or physical barrier. Divided Highway Ends. The divided highway ends 350 to 500 feet ahead. You will then be on a roadway with two-way traffic. Keep to the right. Right Curve. The road will curve to the right. Slow your speed and do not pass other vehicles. Sharp Right Turn. The road will make a sharp turn to the right. Slow your speed and do not pass other vehicles. Reverse Curve. The road will curve right, then to the left. Slow your speed and do not pass other vehicles. Winding Road. There are several curves ahead. Drive slowly and carefully and do not pass other vehicles. Cross Road. A road crosses the main highway ahead. Look to the left and right for other traffic. 50 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� Side Road. Another road enters the highway from the direction shown. Watch for traffic from that direction. Bicycle Crossing. A bike- way crosses the roadway ahead. Watch for bicyclists. Emergency Vehicle Crossing. Watch for emer- gency vehicles entering or crossing the roadway. Truck Crossing. Watch for trucks entering or crossing the roadway. Pedestrian Crossing. Watch for people crossing the street. Slow down or stop to yield for pedestrians. Animal Crossing. The animal pictured on the sign is common in the area; watch for animals crossing the road particularly during twilight and at nighttime. Low Clearance. Do not enter if your vehicle is taller than the height listed on the sign. Pavement Ends. The paved surface ahead changes to a gravel or earth road. Soft Shoulder. The ground on the side of the road is soft. Don’t leave the pavement except in an emergency. Slippery Surface. In wet weather, drive slowly. Don't speed up or brake quickly. Make turns at slow speeds. Dip. There is a low place in the road. Go slowly and be ready to stop and turn around if the dip is filled with water. Narrow Bridge. The bridge is wide enough to accom- modate two lanes of traffic, but with very little clear- ance. Stay in your lane. One Lane Bridge. The bridge is wide enough for only one vehicle at a time. Make sure the bridge is clear of oncoming traffic before you cross. Hill/Downgrade. The road goes downhill ahead. Slow down and be ready to shift to lower gear to control speed. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 51 ...................................................................................................... Traffic conTroLs Traffic Signals Traffic signals are placed at intersections to keep traffic moving and to help prevent crashes. Drivers, pedestrians, and bicycle riders must obey these signals except when an officer is directing traffic. If a traffic signal is out of order and law enforcement is not present, treat the light/intersection as a four-way stop sign (see Power Outage on page 79). Steady Signal Lights RED LIGHT ◆ Come to a complete stop at the stop line. Remain stopped until the light turns green. ◆ Don’t stop too far away from the stop line. Some signals change only when sensors detect vehicles at the stop line. ◆ After stopping, you may turn right if there is not a NO TURN ON RED sign and the way is clear. ◆ You may turn left from a one-way street onto a one-way street that has traffic moving to the left. ◆ Before turning, you must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in the crosswalk and oncoming traffic. ◆ Running (driving through) a red light is against the law and is extremely dangerous! YELLOW LIGHT ◆ Warning—the light is changing to red. ◆ Stop if you can safely do so. It is extremely dangerous to be in an intersection when the light turns red. GREEN LIGHT ◆ Go, but only if the intersection is clear. ◆ Yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk and vehicles in the intersection. ◆ Approach at a speed that will allow you to slow down if the light changes. ◆ When turning left, you must yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians. 52 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� RED ARROW ◆ Do not make the movement shown by the arrow until the green light appears. ◆ After stopping, you may turn right if there is not a NO TURN ON RED sign and the way is clear. ◆ You may turn left from a one-way street onto a one-way street that has traffic moving to the left. ◆ You must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in the crosswalk and oncoming traffic. YELLOW ARROW ◆ The green arrow is ending or the light is about to turn red. ◆ Stop if you can safely do so. GREEN ARROW ◆ You may make a turn in the direction of the arrow. ◆ If the red light is illuminated at the same time, you must be in the proper lane for such a turn. ◆ You must yield the right-of-way to vehicles and pedestrians in the intersection. Flashing Signal Lights FLASHING YELLOW ARROW ◆ Turns are allowed in the direction of the arrow. ◆ The oncoming traffic has a green light. Yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians. FLASHING RED LIGHT Used at dangerous intersections. Treat it like a stop sign; stop and proceed when safe. FLASHING YELLOW LIGHT ◆ Used at, or just before, dangerous intersections. ◆ Also used to alert you to a warning sign such as a school crossing or sharp curve. Proceed with caution. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 53 ...................................................................................................... Traffic conTroLs Lane Signals Lane signals are used: ◆ when the direction of the flow of traffic changes during the day; ◆ to show that a toll booth is open or closed; or ◆ to show which lanes are opened or closed. Red X. Never drive in a lane under the red X. Yellow X. The lane signal is about to turn red. Green Arrow. You may use this lane and you must also obey all other signs and signals. Ramp Signals Ramp signals ◆ control the rate of vehicles entering an expressway; and ◆ alternate between red and green. You must wait for the green signal before entering the expressway.

54 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� Specialized Signs and Signals Construction/Maintenance Signs & Signals Traffic control devices are used in road construction and maintenance work areas to direct drivers and other road users safely through the work site. Be prepared to reduce your speed and use caution when directed to do so by a sign, flagger, or law enforcement officer. Failure to do so is illegal and is dangerous to those working in the construction zone. Construction and Maintenance Signs. The signs—usually diamond shaped and/or orange in color—notify drivers of unusual or potentially dangerous conditions near work areas. Channeling Devices. These include barricades, vertical panels, drums and cones. These devices alert drivers of unusual or potentially dangerous conditions on the roadway and in work zones. These devices may be equipped with warning lights at nighttime and stripes on barricades and panel devices slope downward in the direc- tion traffic must travel. Flashing Arrow Panels. Used both during the day and at night to give advance warning and directional information when it is necessary to move to another lane. Flaggers. People who work in roadway construction/maintenance zones to stop, slow, or guide traffic safely through the area. Flaggers wear bright colored/fluores- cent vests or jackets and use red flags or signs to direct traffic. Drawbridge Signs & Signals Drawbridges are mechanical bridges over navigable waters that raise or turn to allow marine traffic to go under them. Drawbridge Signal ◆ Red. Come to a complete stop at the marked stop line. The bridge is in opera- tion and the roadway is closed to all pedestrian and motor vehicle traffic. ◆ Yellow. The light is about to turn red. Stop if you can safely do so. The bridge is about to start operation. ◆ Green. Proceed with caution. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 55 ...................................................................................................... Traffic conTroLs Flashing Yellow Signal. When the yellow light is flashing, the drawbridge is in operation. Slow down and prepare to stop. Gates. Many drawbridges have gates with flashing red lights and bells. Stop when the lights begin to flash and before the gate lowers. It's against the law to drive around or under a gate— either down or while being opened or closed—and it is extremely dangerous. Pedestrian Signs & Signals Pedestrian signals show words or pictures to indicate when it is safe—or not—to use the crosswalk. WALK or Walking Person. You may begin to cross the street. DON’T WALK or Raised Hand. Never enter the crosswalk or begin crossing the street when the raised hand is flashing or solid. If you are already in the crosswalk when this signal begins flashing, quickly finish crossing the street. Countdown Signal. The countdown starts at the beginning of the DON’T START (flashing hand phase) and ends with a zero and a DON’T WALK (solid hand) phase. Once the countdown starts and the hand is flashing, it is no longer safe to enter the crosswalk. Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon. Push the button to activate the signal. Once the lights begin to flash and the approaching traffic stops, use the crosswalk. Motorists must stop and yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk. Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon ◆ When approaching a pedestrian signal with no light, if the intersection is clear, go. ◆ If there is a yellow flashing light, slow down, because this light indicates that a pedestrian has activated the push button. Approach at a speed that will allow you to stop if the light changes. ◆ If there is a yellow steady light, prepare to stop. ◆ If there is a red steady light, stop for pedestrian in crosswalk. ◆ If there is a red flashing light, proceed with caution. If no pedestrian is present and the intersection is clear, go. 08 56 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� Railroad Crossing Signs & Signals When approaching a highway-railroad crossing, slow down and be ready to stop. Do not stop on the railroad tracks or within 15 feet of the crossing. Any driver, bicyclist or pedestrian approaching a railroad-highway crossing must stop if: ◆ the warning devices are flashing; ◆ the crossing gate is lowered; ◆ a human flagger is warning of an approaching train; and/or ◆ an approaching train is clearly visible. Advance Warning Sign. This is usually the first sign you see when approaching a highway-railroad crossing. Crossbuck Sign. These are yield signs; you must yield the right-of- way to trains. A sign below the crossbuck will show the number of tracks if there is more than one track. Flashing Red Light Signals. At many crossings, the crossbuck sign has flashing red lights and bells. When the lights begin to flash, stop immediately! A train is approaching. Gates. Many crossings have gates with flashing red lights and bells. Stop when the lights begin to flash and before the gate lowers across your road lane. It's against the law to drive around or under a crossing gate—either down or while being opened or closed. Pavement Marking. Markings may be painted on the paved approach to a crossing before the stop line. Dynamic Envelope. White roadway markings in the shape of con- necting X’s used to visually highlight the danger zone where road users should not stop. These markings indicate the clearance needed for trains to safely pass, as any object within the dynamic envelope has the potential to be struck when the train passes through. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 57 ...................................................................................................... Traffic conTroLs Remember: ◆ Slow down when approaching railroad crossings. ◆ Be prepared to stop especially when following buses or trucks; many are required to stop at railroad crossings even when gates are up/lights are not flashing. ◆ If there is more than one track, make sure all tracks are clear before crossing. ◆ In heavy traffic, make sure there is room for your vehicle on the other side of the track before crossing. ◆ Trains are often traveling faster than they appear and they cannot stop quickly. Don’t try to “beat the train;” the train always wins. School Zone Signs & Signals School Sign. You are near a school. Watch for children at all times, not just during school hours. School Crossing. Slow down and watch for children crossing the road. Stop if necessary. Obey signals from any crossing guards. Begin School Zone. Do not exceed the school zone speed limit during indicated times or when light is flashing. End School Zone. Marks the end of a reduced speed school zone. School Bus Stop Ahead. Be prepared to stop. This sign is used to alert motorists of an upcoming school bus stop that may be unex- pected or obscured by roadway geometry, such as a curve or hill. 58 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 59 DRIVING SAFETY Getting Ready to Drive Inspect Your Vehicle Brakes: Check to see that the pedal stays above the floor when you step on it. If the car pulls to one side when you brake or if you hear any scraping or squealing noises, your brakes may need to be repaired. Lights: Check often, replace burned- out bulbs and keep lenses clean. Tires: Inspect often for proper inflation/tire pressure, even tread wear and damage. Windows and Windshields: Keep the glass clean inside and out. Rear Window: If the rear window is covered by or treated with any material that makes it non-transparent, the vehicle must be equipped with side mirrors on both sides that allow the driver a rearview of at least 200 feet. Before you start your engine: ◆ Be sure vehicle is in park or neutral. ◆ Adjust the seat so you can reach all controls. ◆ Adjust all rear-view mirrors so that you can use them without having to lean forward or backward. ◆ Move anything that blocks your view of mirrors or roadway. ◆ Lock all car doors. ◆ Fasten your safety belt and make sure all passengers do the same. Backing Up 1. Check behind your vehicle before you get in. Children and small objects cannot be seen from the driver’s seat. 2. Place your right arm on the back of the passenger seat and turn around so that you can look directly through the rear window. ◆ Do not depend on your rear-view or side mirrors as you cannot see directly behind your vehicle. ◆ Don’t completely rely on cameras/alarms; they don’t always detect small children and animals. 3. Back up slowly; your vehicle is harder to steer while you are backing. 4. When possible, have someone outside the vehicle to help you back up. 60 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� Blind Spots Blind spots are areas near the left and right rear corners of your vehicle that you can’t see in your rear-view mirrors or with your peripheral vision. Before you move to change lanes on a highway, pass on any road, or make certain turns, turn your head to make sure these areas are clear. Do not drive in someone else’s blind spot. Move forward or drop back so that the other driver can see you. The larger the vehicle, the larger the blind spots. Large trucks and SUVs have blind spots close to the rear of the vehicle that cannot be seen in rear-view mirrors (see No Zones on page 82). Braking Distance Perception Distance How far your vehicle travels—in favorable weather conditions—from the time your eyes see a hazard until your brain recognizes it. Perception distance can be affected by mental and physical conditions, medication, as well as visibility and the hazard itself. The average perception time for an alert driver is ¾ second to 1 second. Reaction Distance How far you will continue to travel after seeing the hazard until you physically hit the brakes. The average driver has a reaction time of ¾ second to 1 second. At 50 MPH, this accounts for 55 feet traveled. Braking Distance How far your vehicle travels—in favorable weather conditions— while you are brak- ing. At 50 MPH, on dry pavement and with good brakes, it can take about 158 feet. ◆ High speeds greatly increase stopping distances and severity of crashes. The faster you drive, the greater the impact or striking power of your vehicle. ◆ Doubling the speed means the braking distance and impact are 4 times greater. ◆ Tripling the speed means the braking distance and impact are 9 times greater. ◆ Quadrupling the speed means the braking distance and impact are 16 times greater. Total Stopping Distance The total minimum distance your vehicle will travel (perception distance, reaction distance, and braking distance) until your vehicle comes to a complete stop. At 50 MPH, you will travel a minimum of 268 feet...nearly the length of a football field. Blind Spots (approximate) The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 61 ............................................................................................................ Driving sa feTY Following Distances Rear-end collisions are almost always caused by drivers following too closely. Maintaining a large enough following distance (the space between you and the vehicle in front of you) greatly helps avoid a collision with the vehicle in front of you. The more distance between your vehicle and others, the more time you have to react. Keep a minimum following dis- tance of four seconds during favorable weather and traffic conditions. (Increase following distance during unfavorable weather or traffic conditions.) How to determine a safe following distance: 1. Watch when the rear of the vehicle ahead passes a stationary marker such as a sign or light pole. 2. Count the seconds it takes you to reach the same marker: “One-thousand-one,one-thousand- two, one-thousand-three, one-thousand-four.” 3. If you pass the stationary marker before counting to one-thousand- four, you are following too closely. 4. Reduce speed and then count again at another stationary point. Repeat until you are following no closer than four-seconds. Increase your following distance in these situations: ◆ Rain or when roads are wet. ◆ Low visibility—dusk, dawn, nighttime, fog, etc. ◆ When being passed (more space in front of your vehicle so the pass can be completed safely). ◆ Carrying a heavy load or pulling a trailer. (The extra weight makes it more difficult to stop quickly/steer correctly.) ◆ When stopped behind another vehicle on an incline; it may roll back before moving forward. 62 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� ◆ When following: ◆ Motorcycles. The chances of a motorcyclist falling are greater on wet or gravel roads, or metal surfaces such as bridges. You will need extra stopping/ steering distance to avoid hitting the motorcycle/rider. ◆ Emergency vehicles. It's against the law to follow a fire truck responding to an emergency closer than 500 feet. ◆ Vehicles required to come to a stop at railroad crossings, such as city and school buses and vehicles carrying hazardous materials. ◆ Vehicles with a blocked rear view. Drivers of trucks, buses, vans, or vehicles pulling trailers may not be able to see your vehicle when you are directly behind them. If your vehicle is being followed too closely, slow down and keep to the right. FOLLOWING DISTANCE FOR TRUCKS A truck or any vehicle towing another vehicle must not follow within 300 feet of another truck or another vehicle in tow. This law does not apply to overtak- ing and passing or within cities or towns. Intersections Many intersections are marked with stop lines to show where you must come to a complete stop. After a complete stop, you must yield the right-of-way to traffic already in the intersection and to pedes- trians and bicyclists. Move forward only when the road is clear. Always look both ways for pedestrians or bicyclists at an intersection. Remember to look right before making a right turn. Vehicles proceed through the intersection in the order they arrived; the first vehicle to reach the intersection should move forward first. If vehicles arrive at approxi- mately the same time, each driver must yield to the drivers on their right. At a two-way stop, the turning vehicle yields to the vehicle going straight. Driveways Drivers entering a road from a driveway, alley, or roadside must yield to vehicles already on the main road, as well as to pedestrians and bicyclists on the side- walk or in bike lanes. Open Intersections An open intersection is one without traffic control signs or signals. When you enter an open intersection, you must yield the right-of-way if: ◆ a vehicle is already in the intersection; ◆ you enter or cross a state highway from a secondary road; ◆ you enter a paved road from an unpaved road; or ◆ you plan to make a left turn and a vehicle is approaching from the opposite direction. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 63 ............................................................................................................ Driving sa feTY Roundabouts A roundabout is a circular intersec- tion with no traffic signal. ◆ Roundabouts travel in a one-way, counter-clockwise direction. ◆ Drivers entering the round- about must yield to traffic already in the roundabout. ◆ If there is no traffic, you may enter without yielding. ◆ Do not change lanes in the roundabout. ◆ Do not stop in a roundabout. ◆ Signal before exiting the roundabout. MULTI-LANE ROUNDABOUTS. These have the same rules as single-lane roundabouts, however you will need to choose the proper lane prior to entering the roundabout. To go straight or right, use the right lane. To go straight or left, and to make a U-turn, use the left lane. Prior to entering or exiting the round- about, drivers must yield to pedestrians in the crosswalks. Bicyclists may take the lane in the roundabout or use the sidewalk. Limited Access Highways Limited access highways—also called expressways, interstate highways, turn- pikes, toll roads, and freeways—are multiple-lane roads with no stop signs, traffic lights, or railroad crossings. Pedestrians, hitchhikers, bicycles, animal-drawn vehicles, and motor-driven cycles/motor scooters (with 150 cubic centimeter displacement or less) are not allowed on limited-access highways. Entering & Leaving Limited Access Highways All limited access highway entrances have three basic parts: an entrance ramp, an acceleration lane, and a merging area. WHEN ENTERING A LIMITED ACCESS HIGHWAY: 1. On the entrance ramp, begin checking for an opening in traffic. Signal your intent to merge onto the highway. 2. Increase your speed as the ramp straightens into the acceleration lane. 3. Adjust your speed to safely merge into traffic when you reach the end of the acceleration lane. 4. Merge into traffic when you can do so safely. You must yield the right-of-way to traffic on the highway. Do not stop in the acceleration lane unless traffic is too heavy and there is no space for you to enter safely.

64 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� WHEN LEAVING A LIMITED ACCESS HIGHWAY: 1. Get into the exit lane. Most exits are from the right lane. 2. Activate your turn signal to show your intention to exit. 3. Slow down in the deceleration lane. Check the posted safe speed for the exit ramp. 4. Don’t make last-minute turns into an exit. If you pass your exit, you must go to the next one. LIMITED ACCESS HIGHWAY SAFETY REMINDERS ◆ Plan ahead. Know your exits. In Florida, exits match the mile markers on the highway. ◆ Drive in the right lane and pass on the left. While in the right lane, watch for cars entering the highway. Adjust your speed or move over so they can enter safely. ◆ Never drive across or park on the median. ◆ Never stop on the pavement, shoulder, or connecting ramp except in an emergency. If your vehicle breaks down, you must move it completely of the pave- ment. (No more than six hours.) The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 65 ............................................................................................................ Driving sa feTY ◆ Don’t follow too closely. Rear-end collisions are the greatest danger on limited access highways. ◆ Never back up on an entrance ramp or exit ramp. The ONLY exception to this is if you see a WRONG WAY or DO NOT ENTER sign or red reflectors on lane lines. You must back up or turn around. ◆ Stop driving when you feel tired. Do not risk falling asleep at the wheel. ◆ Obey the Move Over law. Move Over Law The Move Over Law protects law enforce- ment officers, emergency workers, tow truck drivers, sanitation workers, utility workers and road and bridge mainte- nance or construction vehicles displaying warning lights stopped along roadways while performing their jobs. It also protects disabled motor vehicles that are stopped and displaying warning lights/hazard lights, using emergency flares or signage or where one or more persons are visibly present. On a Multi-Lane Roadway ◆ You must vacate the lane closest to the stationary law enforcement, emergency vehicle, tow truck, sanitation, or utility vehicle. (Signal your intention to change lanes.) ◆ If you cannot move over safely, you must slow down to a speed of 20 MPH below the posted speed limit. ◆ Drivers who are not in the lane closest to the stationary vehicle should be prepared to allow those who are about to move over into their lane. On a Two-Lane Roadway ◆ You must slow down to 20 MPH below the posted speed limit. ◆ If the speed limit is 20 MPH or less, you must travel at 5 MPH. Parking When parking on a public road, move as far away from traffic as possible. If there is a roadside shoulder, pull as far onto it as you can. Always park on the right side of the road, unless it is a one-way street. Park paral- lel to the curb in the direction of traffic, with right-hand wheels parallel to and within 12 inches of the curb or side of roadway. Set the parking brake and shift to Park (automatic transmission) or Reverse (manual transmission). Turn off the engine and lock the vehicle. Florida law requires that you take the keys out of your vehicle before leaving it. Always check traffic around you before getting out of a vehicle so you do not open your door into a bicyclist or another vehicle. Before you drive from a parked position, make sure the roadway is clear. Give the proper turn signal and yield to other traffic before pulling away from the curb. Parking on Hills 1. Turn your wheels so that if your car starts to move, it will roll away from traffic or into the curb. 2. Set the parking brake. 3. Automatic transmission: put gear shift in Park. Manual transmission: shift to Reverse (downhill) or First (uphill). 4. Turn vehicle off. 66 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� Straight-in Parking When properly parked, the vehicle should be centered inside the space with no part of the vehicle extending into the traffic lane. It’s Against the Law to Park ◆ On crosswalks ◆ On sidewalks ◆ In bicycle lanes ◆ In intersections ◆ On bridges ◆ On overpasses ◆ In tunnels ◆ In front of driveways ◆ By yellow painted curbs ◆ In NO PARKING or DISABLED PERMIT ONLY zones ◆ On the roadway side of another parked vehicle (double parking) ◆ On highway pavement not marked for parking ◆ Anywhere that blocks or creates a hazard for other vehicles ◆ Or within: ◆ 15 feet of a fire hydrant. ◆ 20 feet of an intersection. ◆ 20 feet of the entrance to a fire, ambulance, or rescue station. ◆ 30 feet of a rural mailbox on a state highway (8 am–6 pm). ◆ 30 feet of any flashing signal, stop sign, or traffic signal. ◆ 50 feet of a railroad crossing. Downhill Turn wheels to curb. Uphill with Curb Turn wheels away from curb. Uphill without Curb Turn wheels to the right. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 67 ............................................................................................................ Driving sa feTY Passing 1. You must activate your signal before moving into the left lane to let others know that you are about to change lanes to pass. 2. Stay a safe distance behind the vehicle you want to pass. The closer you get, the less you can see ahead. 3. Before you pull out to pass, check blind spots and make sure you have plenty of time and room to pass. 4. Tap your horn (day) or flash your headlights (night) to let the other driver know you are passing. 5. Do not return to the right side of the road until you can see the tires of the vehicle you passed in your rear-view mirror. Signal when you are about to return to your lane. 6. You must return to the right side of the road before coming within 200 feet of any approaching vehicle. Do not attempt to pass more than one vehicle at a time. Passing multiple vehi- cles is dangerous. Stay within the speed limit. It’s illegal to exceed the speed limit while passing. You Must Not Pass: ◆ where there is a single or double- sided solid line dividing lanes; ◆ when the double-sided yellow line is solid in your lane; ◆ in Do Not Pass and No Passing zones; ◆ on hills or curves where you can’t see at least 500 feet ahead; ◆ within 100 feet of an intersection, bridge, viaduct, tunnel, or railroad crossing; ◆ when a school bus is stopped and has its warning flashers on and stop sign extended; and ◆ at crosswalks where a vehicle has stopped to allow a pedestrian to cross. Being Passed Do not increase your speed when you are being passed. Move to the right side of your lane to give passing drivers more room and a better view of the road ahead. *Florida Law states that a driver must move out of the left lane when being overtaken from behind by another vehicle traveling at a faster speed. Passing on the Right Passing on the right is only legal when there are two or more traffic lanes mov- ing in the same direction or the vehicle you are passing is making a left turn. Stay a safe distance behind the vehicle you want to pass. The closer you get, the less you can see. 68 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� Right-of-Way Right-of-way rules tell you who goes first and who must wait in different condi- tions. The law says who must yield (give up) the right-of-way. Every driver, motorcyclist, moped rider, pedestrian, and bicyclist must do everything possible to avoid a crash. Speed Limits Speed limits show the fastest speed you may drive under favorable conditions. You are responsible for adjusting your driving speed to the weather, roadway, and traffic conditions. For example, during a storm, you should drive slower than the posted speed limit. The safest speed is the one that allows you to have complete control of your vehicle and avoid collisions. Obeying the speed limit reduces the probability and severity of crashes. The faster you drive, the greater the impact or striking power of your vehicle: ◆ When you double the speed of a car, you increase its force of impact four times. ◆ When you triple the speed of a car, you increase its force of impact nine times. Speeding is against the law. You must obey the speed limit and you are respon- sible for knowing the speed limit when you are driving. Observe and obey posted speed limit signs. The “speeding buffer” is a myth. You are not allowed to drive up to 10 MPH over the speed limit and may receive a citation for speeding. Florida Standard Speed Limits ◆ School Zones: 20 MPH ◆ Municipal, Business, or Residential Area: 30 MPH* ◆ Streets and Highways: 55 MPH* ◆ Limited Access Highways: 70 MPH *Maximum speed except where otherwise posted. Driving too slowly is also against Florida law. You must not drive so slowly that you block or delay traffic moving at normal, safe speeds. You should drive with the flow of traffic, within the speed limit. When driving slower than the flow of traffic, keep right so others may safely pass. On highways, when the posted speed limit is 70 MPH, the minimum speed limit is 50 MPH. Stopping Stopping suddenly is dangerous and can be caused by not paying attention to the traffic flow or following others too closely. Sudden stops make it difficult for drivers behind you to avoid a rear- end collision. To ensure you are stopping smoothly: ◆ Check all mirrors and blind spots for traffic to the rear. ◆ Release the accelerator to allow the vehicle to slow. Press the brake pedal to activate brake lights and use a steady pressure. Traffic Lanes ◆ On a two-lane highway you must always drive in the right lane unless you are overtaking and passing (where permitted). The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 69 ............................................................................................................ Driving sa feTY ◆ If the road has four or more lanes with two-way traffic, drive in the right lanes except when overtaking and passing. ◆ The center lane of a three-lane or five-lane highway is used only for turning left. HOV Lanes Some highways reserve the left lane for vehicles with two or more occupants or hybrid/low emission vehicles (LEV). LEVs require a decal and completion of FLHSMV Form 83027. High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes are identified by signs/diamond pavement symbols, and are separated by a striped buffer zone. Vehicles may enter and exit the HOV lane only at designated points. Red Reflectors on Lane Lines Red reflectors on lane lines always mean you are facing traffic the wrong way and could have a head-on collision. ◆ If you see red reflectors facing you on the lane lines, you are on the wrong side of the road. Turn around or get into the proper lane immediately! ◆ If you see red reflectors on the edge lines of the road, you are going the wrong way on an entrance or exit ramp. Pull over immediately! Turn around when it is safe to do so. Turning ◆ You must use vehicle directional signals or hand signals to show other drivers that you are turning. ◆ Turn signals are required by law when changing lanes or overtaking a vehicle. ◆ You must give a turn signal at least 100 feet BEFORE making your turn. ◆ It's against the law to use your directional signals to tell drivers behind you that they can pass. ◆ Hand signals must be given from the left side of the vehicle. * Note: Bicyclists may extend right hand and arm horizontally from right side of bicycle for right turn. Turning a corner may seem to be a simple task, but many traffic crashes are caused by drivers who do not turn correctly. 1. Slow down to a safe turning speed. 2. Move into the correct lane as you near the intersection. 3. Activate your turn signal at least 100 feet before making your turn. Allow time for drivers around you to see your signal before you move. 4. Obey any NO TURN ON RED or STOP HERE signs. ARRIVE ALIVE ARRIVE ALIVE ARRIVE ALIVE ARRIVE ALIVE ARRIVE ALIVE Left Turn Right Turn Slow or Stop 70 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� 5. Yield to bicyclists when crossing a bike lane and to pedestrians who may be crossing your path. 6. Stay in the proper lane during your turn. Yield the right-of-way to vehicles and bicycles coming from the opposite direction. 7. Finish your turn in the proper lane. Turn right into the right lane of the roadway entered. A left turn may be completed in any lane lawfully available— or safe—for the desired direction of travel. Never make last minute turns. If you reach an intersection where you wish to turn and are not in the proper lane, drive to the next intersection and then make the turn from the proper lane. Three-Point Turns Sometimes you will need to turn around in a very small space. Use a three-point turn only if the road is too narrow for a U-turn and you can’t go around the block. To make a three-point turn: 1. Move as far right as possible, check traffic, and signal a left turn. Turn the steering wheel sharply to the left and move forward slowly. Stop at the curb. 2. Shift to reverse, turn your wheels sharply to the right, check traffic, and back your vehicle to the right curb. 3. Shift the vehicle into drive and pull forward carefully. Never make a three-point turn or a U-turn on a curve, a hill, the highway, or where there is a sign that prohibits U-turns. 1 2 3 4 Three Point Turn The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 71 SPECIAL DRIVING SITUATIONS Animals There may be times when an animal suddenly runs in front of your vehicle. Do not swerve into oncoming traffic or off the roadway to avoid hitting the animal. This can result in a more serious crash than if your vehicle collided with the animal. To reduce your chances of colliding with an animal: ◆ Use caution when driving at dawn and dusk; this is when animals are most active. ◆ Be extra alert when driving on roadways marked with animal crossing signs and near woods and water. ◆ Scan the sides of the road and watch for the reflection of your headlights in the eyes of animals. ◆ Deer/vehicle crashes occur most often from October to December. If an animal is present: ◆ Slow down when approaching animals that are standing near the roadway, they may bolt out or change direction. ◆ Flash your headlights to warn other drivers when animals are spotted on or near the road. ◆ If you have time to avoid hitting an animal, reduce your speed, tap your brakes, and sound your horn. Deer tend to fixate on headlights so flashing them may cause the animal to freeze. If there are no vehicles close behind you, brake hard without locking your wheels. ◆ If collision is inevitable, do not swerve to avoid the animal. Keep your vehicle under control and on the roadway. ◆ Report the crash to the law enforcement if it involves a large animal such as a bear, deer, or farm animal. Low Visibility Smoke from wildfires and controlled burning, fog and heavy rain will affect your ability to see. When driving in low visibility conditions: ◆ You must turn on your headlights. Parking lights are not a substitute. ◆ Drive with lights on low beam. High beams will reflect off the fog and impair visibility even more. ◆ Turn on your headlights when you turn on your windshield wipers. ◆ Use wipers and defrosters for maximum visibility. Sometimes it's difficult to determine if poor visibility is due to fog or moisture on the windshield. ◆ Use the right edge of the road or edge lines and center lines as visual guides. 72 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� ◆ Eliminate all distractions in your vehicle. Turn of the radio, cell phone, etc. ◆ Watch out for slow-moving and parked vehicles. ◆ Keep your windshield and head- lights clean to reduce glare and increase visibility. Rain When you turn on your windshield wipers, turn on your headlights. Slow down! Roads become slick during rainstorms and especially if it has not rained in a while (oil build-up on the highway). Wet road conditions will increase your brak- ing/stopping distance, so be sure to increase your following distance. Hydroplaning happens when your vehicle slides on top of a thin layer of water between your tires and the road. When your tires are not touching the road, you can easily lose control and skid. Tires with low air pressure or bad tread increase the risk of hydroplaning (see page 79)—and so does speeding. Brakes often become wet after driving in heavy rain. They may pull to one side or the other, or they may not hold at all. If this happens, slow down and gently push on the brake pedal until your brakes are working again. If you come to a flooded roadway, turn around and find another route. Do not attempt to drive through the water! It's impossible to determine the depth or current and your vehicle could become submerged or swept away. Night Driving High beam headlights can reveal objects up to a distance of at least 450 feet and are most effective for speeds faster than 25 MPH. At night, glare from oncoming cars can reduce your vision. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 73 ...................................................................................... sPeciaL Driving siTuaTions You will need to drive with extra care at night. You can’t see as far ahead and the glare from oncoming traffic can reduce your vision even more. Florida law says you must: ◆ Use headlights between the hours of sunset and sunrise. ◆ Not use high beam headlights within 500 feet of an oncoming vehicle; use low beam headlights. ◆ Not use high beam headlights within 300 feet of the vehicle ahead of you; use low beam headlights. ◆ Not drive using only parking lights in place of headlights. ◆ Turn on your parking lights at night when parking on a roadway or shoulder outside of cities and towns. Guidelines for driving at night: ◆ Avoid “over driving” your lights (driving too fast for what you can see). ◆ High beam headlights can reveal objects up to a distance of 450 feet and are most effective for speeds faster than 25 MPH. ◆ When leaving a brightly lit area, drive slowly until your eyes adjust to the darkness. ◆ Don’t look directly at oncoming headlights. Use lane lines as visual guides and look quickly to check the other vehicle’s position every few seconds. ◆ Drive as far to the right as you can if a vehicle with one light comes toward you; it could be a vehicle with a missing headlight.

Would law enforcement know WHO TO CALL? Register today with Florida’s Emergency Contact Information (ECI) system. It’s free, quick and easy! ECI allows law enforcement to contact designated family or friends in an emergency situation. The system is securely maintained by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles and can be accessed by law enforcement only in the event of an emergency. Floridians with a valid driver license or ID card may enter up to two emergency contacts. Residents can register or update their ECI free of charge at flhsmv.gov/eci and in local driver license office statewide. Has your information changed? Go online and update your ECI to ensure that someone is there for you when you need them. For more information regarding this and other services provided by FLHSMV, visit flhsmv.gov. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 75 HANDLING EMERGENCIES Defensive Driving Defensive driving is using safe driving strategies to prevent crashes. This means that you alter your driving to fit the weather conditions, the way you feel, and the actions of other motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Follow these steps to avoid crashes: 1. Look for possible danger. For example, if you see school zone signs, plan what you will do if a child runs or rides into the street. 2. Anticipate what another driver might do and make appropriate adjust- ments. For example, you’ve noticed someone aggressively changing lanes as they approach you from the rear. You should anticipate that they will probably pass you and cut you off—slow down and be ready to brake, if necessary. 3. Use extra caution when approaching an intersection. Crashes happen at intersections more than any other place. 4. If a crash is unavoidable: ◆ It's better to swerve off the road than into oncoming traffic. ◆ It's better to drive off the road than to skid off the road. ◆ It is better to hit something that is not moving instead of a vehicle moving toward you. ◆ Hitting a vehicle moving in the same direction as you is better than hitting a vehicle head-on. ◆ Hitting a “soft object” like a garden hedge is better than hitting a solid object like a tree or post. Interacting with Law Enforcement Law enforcement is responsible for conducting traffic stops when they have reason- able suspicion of a traffic violation or a criminal violation. A traffic stop can be a stressful experience for the driver, any passengers, and for the officer too. Knowing what to do during the stop will help ensure your safety and the safety of others. When you see emergency lights behind you, it's important for you and your passen- gers to stay calm and cooperate. Remember to: 1. Activate your turn signal and pull off or to the side of the roadway as soon as it is safe to do so. 2. Turn off your engine and any audio devices. 3. Stay in your vehicle unless directed by the officer to exit. 4. Keep your hands on the steering wheel or in a visible location so they are easily observable. 76 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� 5. Turn on your interior lights if you are pulled over at night to assist with visibility. Officers may use a spotlight for additional visibility. During the day, if you have tinted windows, roll down all windows. 6. Follow all instructions the officer gives you or your passengers. The officer may approach either side of the vehicle. When the officer approaches the vehicle, remember to: 1. Lower the corresponding window so you and the officer can better communicate. 2. Let the officer know if you have a weapon in the vehicle upon first contact. 3. Wait for the officer’s instructions before reaching for your driver’s license or vehicle documents. When conducting the stop, the officer will typically: ◆ Show their law enforcement credentials if they are not in uniform. If they do not show their credentials, you may ask to see them. ◆ Explain why you were stopped/ask questions about your trip. ◆ Ask for your driver’s license, proof of insurance, and vehicle registra- tion. If the documents are out of your reach, tell the officer where they are and wait for the officer’s acknowledgment before reaching to retrieve the documents. In some cases, the officer may: ◆ Ask you to exit the vehicle. In this case, keep your hands visible, exit the vehicle, and stand in a location as directed by the officer. ◆ Impose a sanction such as a warning, traffic ticket which may include a fine, or arrest. The officer will typically explain whatever action is being taken. If they do not, you may ask them to do so. If you have questions, respectfully ask the officer to clarify. If you disagree with the officer’s decision or course of action, do not prolong the contact by arguing with the officer. Rather, you may seek to contest the decision in court through established legal channels. Your accep- tance and signature on a traffic ticket is not an admission of guilt. However, the refusal to sign a traffic ticket may result in your arrest. If you believe the officer acted inappro- priately or have questions regarding their conduct you may request to speak to a supervisor. This is best done as soon as possible after the stop. Following these procedures can help make a traffic stop a safe experience for all parties involved. Additional information is available online at: www.aamva.org/law- enforcement/what-to-do-when-stopped- by-law-enforcement. * This guidance was approved by the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives and the National Sheriffs’ Association. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 77 ............................................................................................. hanDLing emergencies Your Responsibilities After a Crash If you are involved in a crash that results in death, injury or property damage, it's your duty—required by law—to give information and render aid. Always remain calm. 1. Stop and call 911, *FHP (*347), or local law enforcement. 2. Turn on hazard lights. 3. If anyone is hurt, you must get help immediately! 4. If the crash is minor and your vehicle is blocking the flow of traffic, you must move it or have it moved. 5. Exchange vehicle, witness, and driver information (name, address, phone number, license plate number, driver license and insurance). 6. Take photos or sketch the scene, showing vehicle crash locations. A law enforcement officer will complete a written report if the crash involves a charge of DUI or results in death, injury, or property damage to the extent a vehicle must be towed. If the crash results in vehicle or property damage and does not require a law enforcement report, you must make a written report of the crash to FLHSMV within 10 days. (This can be done at flhsmv.gov.) If you are in a crash with an unattended vehicle or other property, you must make every attempt to locate the owner and notify law enforcement. If you can’t locate the property owner, you must leave a note including your name, contact information, and license plate (registra- tion) number. Stay at the Scene It is against the law to leave the scene of a crash involving death, injury or prop- erty damage. HIT AND RUN PENALTIES If you leave the scene and it results in: ◆ Death: 1st degree felony, minimum 4-year prison term. ◆ Serious bodily injury: 2nd degree felony. ◆ Injury: 3rd degree felony. All of the above include losing your driver license for 3 years minimum. Damage to a vehicle or other property which is driven or attended by any per- son is a 2nd degree misdemeanor. First Aid If you come upon a crash, call 911 or *FHP (*347) and/or send someone for help. Don’t assume someone else has called; it’s better for emergency services to get multiple calls rather than none at all. Do not put yourself in danger! Pull as far of the road as possible and turn your hazard lights on to alert others. Be careful when exiting your vehicle and stay out of traffic. 78 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� If someone is injured, apply first aid. However, don’t move an injured person who may have a neck or spinal injury. Don’t attempt to remove the helmet of an injured motorcycle or bicycle rider. Treat For Shock Persons who have been injured may go into shock. When someone is in shock, all body functions slow down. Shock can be very serious and can cause death. Treat the injured for shock regardless of whether or not they appear to be in shock: ◆ Keep the injured person calm. ◆ Don’t give them anything to drink. ◆ Have the person lie flat and elevate their legs. ◆ Cover the person with blankets to hold body heat. ◆ Maintain an open airway. Emergency Scenarios Avoiding Rear-End Collisions To avoid striking the vehicle in front of you, keep at least four seconds following distance and increase following distance during unfavorable weather or heavy traffic. To lower the risk of someone running into the rear of your vehicle: ◆ Check brake lights to make sure they’re clean and working properly. ◆ Know what is going on around you. Use the rear-view and side mirrors. ◆ Signal well in advance for turns, stops, and lane changes. ◆ Avoid sudden stops; slow down gradually and smoothly. ◆ Drive with the flow of traffic (within the speed limit). Driving too slowly can be dangerous. Breakdowns/Disabled Vehicles 1. You must move the vehicle so all four wheels are out of traffic lanes as soon as possible. If you can’t move it, you must have it moved as soon as possible. 2. If possible, park where the disabled vehicle can be seen for 200 feet in each direction. 3. Turn on your hazard lights. 4. Get all passengers out of the car on the side away from traffic. 5. Call *FHP (*347) or law enforce- ment for assistance. Emergency Braking To stop in an emergency situation where traction is lost, drivers with conventional brakes should pump the brakes. Drivers with anti-lock brakes (ABS) must press down hard on the brake pedal, hold it, and steer out of danger. If the driver with ABS removes steady pressure from the brake pedal or pumps the brakes, the ABS will disengage or turn off. Vehicles with: ◆ Four-wheel ABS (passenger cars and some light trucks). Brake hard, steer, and keep constant pressure on the brake pedal. ◆ Rear-wheel ABS (on some light trucks). ABS prevents the rear wheels from locking up so that the back end of the vehicle does not skid. The front wheels can still lock up and cause the driver to lose steering control. If this happens, let up on the brake pedal just enough to allow the front wheels to start rolling again to regain control. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 79 ............................................................................................. hanDLing emergencies Fire 1. Exit the vehicle. 2. Call 911 for assistance. 3. Attempt to extinguish the fire only if you have a portable extinguish- er and the fire is small. NEVER apply water to a gasoline or diesel fire. 4. If you can’t extinguish the fire, get away from the vehicle! The fumes are toxic and an explosion is possible. Jammed Gas Pedal 1. Take your foot of the gas pedal. 2. Press the clutch (manual trans- mission) or shift into neutral (automatic transmission). 3. If necessary, press—don’t slam— brakes to slow the vehicle.* 4. Carefully steer to a safe place to stop. * Do not shut off engine unless #1 and #2 do not work to slow the vehicle. If you shut off your engine, you will lose the ability to steer the car. Overcorrection Overcorrection is excessive steering in reaction to an event or loss of control of a vehicle. It typically occurs when a motorist steers too sharply in an effort to avoid a collision or driving off of the roadway. It can result in a rollover crash or steering into oncoming traffic. Avoid overcorrecting! If you find yourself unintentionally leaving the roadway: 1. Stay calm. 2. Hold the wheel firmly. 3. Take your foot off the gas and do not slam on the brakes. 4. Steer the car where desired. 5. If necessary, steer the car to a safe place and stop. Power Outage In circumstances where the power is out and traffic signals are not active, treat intersections as a four-way stop: ◆ Vehicles move through the inter- section in the order they arrived (first to arrive is first to move forward). ◆ If multiple vehicles arrive at the same time, the driver on the left yields to the driver on the right. Right Wheels Off Pavement 1. Take your foot of the gas pedal. 2. Hold the wheel firmly and steer in a straight line. 3. Brake lightly. 4. Wait until the road is clear. Turn back on the pavement at a slow speed (signal your intention). Skidding/Hydroplaning 1. Take your foot off the gas pedal. 2. Do not use your brakes, if possible. 3. Turn the vehicle’s front tires in the direction you want to go (steer in the direction of the skid). 4. If you are about to hit something, see Emergency Braking on page 78. Stalled on Railroad Tracks If your car stalls on the railroad tracks, get everyone out immediately and get away from the car! If you are stalled at a railroad crossing and the warning lights begin to flash, 20 seconds is the minimal amount of time 80 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� that it takes a train to reach the grade after the warning lights begin flashing. If a train is coming, run in a 45-degree angle away from the tracks, but in a direction toward the train; you will be less likely to be hit by your vehicle or debris from the collision. Call 911 or *FHP (*347). EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION SYSTEM (ENS) There is a blue ENS sign installed at every highway-rail grade crossing. This sign provides critical emergency contact information to reach the railroad respon- sible if there is a problem at the crossing or if something is blocking the tracks. Submerged Vehicle If you crash into a pond, river, or other body of water, your vehicle will only float on the surface for 30–60 seconds. Get out of the vehicle immediately— do NOT call 911 until you are out of the vehicle! 1. Unbuckle your safety belt. 2. Roll the window down before the car sinks. If you are able to open the door, be aware that the car will immediately fill with water. 3. If you are unable to roll the window down, try to kick out a side window. There are many types of “escape tools” available that will quickly break a win- dow. If you keep one of these in your vehicle, be sure it is within reach in case of an emergency. Tire Blowout 1. Take your foot off the gas. Do not use the brakes. 2. Concentrate on steering. 3. Slow down gradually. 4. Brake softly when the car is under control. 5. Pull completely off the pavement/ roadway. Vehicle Approaching in Your Lane 1. Sound horn and flash high beams. 2. Brake hard. 3. Steer to the side of the road. Wet Brakes 1. Test brakes lightly. 2. Brakes may pull to one side or may not hold at all. 3. Dry brakes by driving slowly in low gear and applying brakes. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 81 SHARING THE ROAD Bicyclists In Florida, the bicycle is legally defined as a vehicle and has all of the privileges, rights, and responsibilities on public roads (except limited access highways) that a motor vehicle operator does. Bicyclists may ride out of the bike lane into the travel lane for their own safety due to: narrow roads, to avoid obstacles or pavement hazards, or to prepare for a left turn. A bicyclist may use the full lane even while traveling below the speed of traffic if the lane is too narrow for both a car and bicycle to share. Bicyclists may also ride on sidewalks, but they must yield to pedestrians on side- walks and in crosswalks. Rules for Motorists 1. Florida law requires that you give bicyclists a minimum of three feet of clearance and use caution/slow speed when driving next to or passing them. 2. On a two-lane road, pass a bicyclist as you would a slow-moving vehicle, and only when it is safe to do so. 3. At intersections, assume bicyclists are traveling straight unless they signal otherwise. Yield to bicycles as you would to any other vehicle. 4. When you must cross into a bike lane to make a turn, yield to any bicyclist and make your turn behind the bicyclist. 5. Do not follow a bicyclist too closely. 6. At night, avoid using high beam headlights when a bicyclist is approaching. 7. Before opening a car door, check for bicyclists who may be approaching from behind. 8. Avoid honking your horn and startling a bicyclist. Rules for Bicyclists 1. Bicyclists must obey all traffic controls and signals. 2. If bicyclists are not traveling at the speed of other traffic, they must use the bike lane. If no bike lane is available, they must stay on the right-most side of the road. 3. Bicyclists may use the full lane when making a left turn, passing, avoiding hazards, or when a lane is too narrow for them and a car to share it safely. 4. When operating a bicycle on a one-way street with two or more traffic lanes, bicyclists may ride on the left-hand side of the road. 5. Bicyclists must use directional hand signals (see page 69) to show other drivers that they are about to turn. 82 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� 6. Bicyclists must never attach themselves or their bike to any vehicle on the roadway. 7. Whether riding on a sidewalk or crosswalk, bicyclists have all the rights and duties of a pedestrian. However, they must yield right-of- way to pedestrians and must give an audible signal before passing. 8. Between sunset and sunrise, bicyclists must have a white light visible from 500 feet on the front of their bicycle and a red reflector and a red light visible from 600 feet on the rear. 9. Bicyclists must have brakes which can stop their bike within 25 feet from a speed of 10 MPH. 10. All bicyclists and passengers under age 16 are required to wear helmets that meet federal safety standards. 11. If transporting a child under age four or who weighs 40 pounds or less, bicyclists must use a back- pack/sling, child seat, or trailer designed to carry children. 12. Bicyclists must not leave a child in a seat or carrier when they are not in immediate control of the bicycle. 13. If riding with others, bicyclists may not ride more than two side-by-side unless it is a path or part of a roadway reserved for bicycles. They must ride single file if they are impeding traffic. 14. Bicyclists must not wear head- phones/earbuds in both ears while bicycling on the roadway. 15. Do not ride a bicycle when under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Bicyclist Safety Tips ◆ No matter your age, wear a helmet. ◆ Keep both hands on the handlebars. ◆ On the roadway, check behind you before changing lanes or moving notably within the lane. ◆ Be seen. Wear neon/fluorescent colors when riding and something reflective. ◆ Don’t text while biking. Commercial Motor Vehicles Sharing the road with commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) such as semi-trucks or travel buses means abiding by different rules and safety strategies. Rules for Motorists 1. Stay out of the “No Zone.” CMVs have large blind spots in front, behind, and on both sides of the vehicle. Even though CMVs have several rear-view mirrors, other vehicles will be hidden from view if within the “No Zone”/blind spot. 2. Don’t tailgate; you’ll be in the rear blind spot and may collide with the CMV if it stops unexpectedly. 3. If you are stopped behind a CMV on an upgrade, leave space in case the CMV drifts back when it starts to move. Keep to the left in your lane so the driver can see your vehicle. 4. Don’t use high beam headlights when following a CMV at night. Bright lights will blind the driver when they reflect of the CMV’s large side mirrors.

84 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� 5. When a CMV is coming from the opposite direction, keep to the right to avoid a sideswipe crash. 6. CMVs often need to swing wide to the left in order to make a right turn. Do not drive between the CMV and the curb—they will not be able to see you. 7. Never cross behind a CMV that is preparing to back up or that is backing up. The size of most CMVs and trailers completely hide objects behind them from view. Passing Commercial Vehicles ◆ When passing a CMV, check to your front and rear, and move into the passing lane only if it is clear and safe to pass. You must signal that you are changing lanes, and let the CMV driver know you are passing by blinking your headlights. ◆ Pass CMVs on the left side for maximum visibility. Complete your pass as quickly as possible so that you do not remain in the CMV’s blind spot. ◆ Avoid cutting in too soon when passing a CMV. Large CMVs can’t stop as quickly as other vehicles. Be sure you can see the cab in your rear-view mirror before completing your pass. (CMV drivers may flash headlights to let you know it is OK to merge back into the lane.) ◆ Avoid passing a CMV on a down- grade; its weight and momentum will cause it to increase speed. ◆ When a CMV passes you, keep to the right side of your lane. Do not speed up while the CMV is passing. Emergency Vehicles Motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians must yield the right-of-way to law enforcement vehicles, fire engines, and other emergency vehicles using sirens or flashing lights. Pull over to the closest edge of the roadway immediately and stop until the emergency vehicle has passed. Do not block intersections. Funeral Processions Motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians must yield the right-of-way to funeral processions. When the funeral lead vehi- cle enters an intersection, the remaining vehicles in the funeral procession may follow through the intersection regard- less of any traffic control devices. All vehicles in the procession should have their headlights on or may use flashing hazard lights as a signal to others not to drive between the funeral procession. No Zones The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 85 ...................................................................................................... sharing The roaD Golf Carts You may only drive a golf cart on golf courses or roadways that are designated for golf carts. These roads will be marked with appropriate signs. ◆ A golf cart must not be driven on a public road or street by anyone under the age of 18 unless they possess a valid learner's license or valid driver license. Drivers 18 years old or older must possesses a valid form of government-issued photo- graphic identification. ◆ Golf carts may not be operated AT ALL unless allowed by the specific county or city. ◆ A golf cart must only be operated during the hours between sunrise and sunset, unless the local govern- ment permits driving outside of those hours (additional equipment is required for night driving.) ◆ You may cross state roads if the posted speed limit is 45 MPH or less and only at an intersection with a traffic control device. ◆ You can drive a golf cart on a sidewalk only if it is at least 5 feet wide. You must yield to pedestrians. ◆ All local and state traffic laws must be obeyed, including yielding the right-of-way. Required Golf Cart Equipment ◆ Efficient brakes ◆ Rear-view mirror ◆ Reliable steering ◆ Front and rear red warning reflectors ◆ Safe tires Child passenger safety seats should not be used on golf carts or other low speed vehicles (LSVs). Car seats are not crash tested for LSVs and may not perform as designed. Refer to the specific car seat manufacturer for more information. REQUIRED FOR NIGHT DRIVING ◆ Headlights ◆ Brake lights ◆ Turn signals ◆ Windshield Low-Speed Vehicles Low-speed vehicles (LSV) are four- wheeled vehicles with top speeds of 21–25 MPH. Golf carts can be converted to low-speed vehicles. You must have a valid driver license to operate an LSV, and the LSV must: ◆ only be operated on streets with a posted speed limit is 35 MPH or less. ◆ be equipped with headlamps, stop lamps, turn signals, tail lamps, reflectors, parking brakes, rear-view mirrors, a wind shield, safety belts, and a vehicle identification number. ◆ be registered and properly insured (see page 23 and page 37). Motorcycles and Mopeds Motorcycle and moped drivers have the same rights and duties as drivers of motor vehicles. Riders committing traffic violations may receive citations. Rules for Motorists ◆ You must not attempt to share a lane with a motorcycle. The motorcyclist is entitled to the entire lane. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 87 ...................................................................................................... sh aring The roaD ◆ Watch for motorcycles and look carefully before pulling into an intersection or changing lanes. ◆ It is difficult to gauge the speed of a motorcycle because they take up less field of vision which interferes with depth perception. They may appear to be much farther away than they really are. ◆ Do not follow too closely behind a motorcycle because they have the ability to stop more quickly than other vehicles. ◆ Motorcyclists often slow down by down-shifting or rolling of the throttle, thus not activating the brake light. ◆ Never pass a motorcyclist with only a few feet of space. The wind gust force can cause the rider to lose control. ◆ When your vehicle is being passed by a motorcycle, maintain your lane position. Do not speed up. ◆ Maintain more than a four-second buffer zone between you and a motorcyclist, and increase space when there is: inclement weather, gusty winds, wet or icy roads, bad road conditions such as potholes, gravel roads, and railroad crossings. ◆ Use your turn signals prior to changing lanes! This is one of the most important actions you can do to help motorcyclists stay safe. Advance Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) safety features may not detect motorcyclists or motorcycles. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and follow the tips above! Rules for Motorcycle/Moped Riders ◆ You must be 16 years of age or older to operate a motorcycle or moped on a public road. ◆ If under 18, you must hold a learner’s license for 12 months with no moving violation convic- tions prior to the issuance of a Motorcycle Only license. ◆ Operators of motorcycles must complete an approved motorcycle safety course and get a motorcycle endorsement on their driver license or a Motorcycle Only license. ◆ Operators of mopeds must have a Class E driver license. A motorcycle endorsement is not required. ◆ Operators of motorcycles must wear a helmet unless they are 21 or older AND carry a medical insurance policy providing for at least $10,000 in medical benefits for injuries. ◆ Operators of motorcycles and mopeds do not have to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. ◆ Motorcycles and mopeds: ◆ must be registered annually and have the proper tag; and ◆ must not be operated on bicycle paths or foot paths. Pedestrians It is the motorist’s responsibility to do everything possible to avoid colliding with a pedestrian. When in a crosswalk or driveway, bicyclists, skaterboarders, and skaters are considered pedestrians. 88 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� Rules for Motorists 1. You must stop and remain stopped for pedestrians crossing a street or driveway at any marked crossing, or intersection. 2. When entering or leaving an alley, driveway, or private road, you must stop for pedestrians on the sidewalk. 3. Never block the crosswalk when stopped at a red light. Do not stop with any portion of your vehicle overhanging the crosswalk. 4. You may not overtake or pass a vehicle that's stopped at a cross- walk to allow a pedestrian to cross the roadway. A driver approaching a vehicle from the rear that is stop- ped at a crosswalk must assume that a pedestrian may be crossing, even when none can be seen at that moment. 5. Always stop before turning right on red and look both ways for pedestrians in the crosswalk. 6. Come to a complete stop, yield the right-of-way, and use extra caution when approaching: ◆ a visually impaired pedestrian who is carrying a white cane with a red tip or guided by a service animal; ◆ mobility-impaired persons (using a walker, crutch, or an orthopedic cane or wheelchair) and pedestrians using a guide dog or service animal; or ◆ children or any confused or incapacitated pedestrian. Rules for Pedestrians 1. Pedestrians must not walk on the roadway if a sidewalk is available. 2. When walking on a roadway without a sidewalk, always walk on the shoulder on the left side, facing traffic. 3. Cross the road at intersections or designated crosswalks. Cross- walks at intersections may be marked or unmarked. 4. Pedestrians must yield the right- of-way to vehicles if crossing a roadway at any point other than within a crosswalk. 5. Pedestrians must yield the right-of-way to vehicles in the crosswalk if the crosswalk signal is red or displays DON’T WALK. Pedestrian Safety Tips ◆ Never enter the street from be- tween parked cars. Always use a crosswalk. ◆ Stop at the curb or the edge of the road if there is no curb. Look left, then right, then left again for moving vehicles before you step into the street. ◆ Be seen. Wear bright, reflective, neon colors. Carry a flashlight at night. ◆ Don’t text while walking. ◆ Avoid wearing headphones so that you can hear the traffic around you. Public Transit All drivers shall yield the right-of-way to public transit buses traveling in the same direction that have signaled and are reentering the traffic flow from a specifically designated pullout bay. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 89 ...................................................................................................... sharing The roaD School Buses It is against the law for any driver to pass a school bus when the school bus displays a stop signal. On a two-way street or highway, all drivers moving in either direction must stop for a stopped school bus that is picking up or dropping of children. You must remain stopped until the stop signal is withdrawn and all children are clear of the roadway. If the highway is divided by a raised barrier or an unpaved median at least five feet wide, you do not have to stop if you are moving in the opposite direction of the bus. Painted lines or pavement markings are not considered barriers. You must always stop if you are moving in the same direction as the bus and you must remain stopped until the stop signal is withdrawn. School Crossings School zones and crossings provide students with a safe zone when they cross the road to and from school. School signs advise drivers of school zones and school crossings. Crossing guards are the first to enter and last to exit a crosswalk to indicate that pedestrians, especially children, are about to cross or are crossing. When children or school crossing guards are present in a crosswalk, you must yield and stop at the stop line and not in the crosswalk. Slow Moving Vehicles Farm vehicles designed for operation at speeds less than 25 MPH must display this sign on the rear when using public highways (not limited access/inter- states). Also, these vehicles must only be operated during daylight hours unless equipped with the proper lights/reflec- tors required for night driving. Two Lane AND Multi-Lane Paved Across Vehicles traveling in both directions MUST stop. Divided Highway Unpaved space 5 ft+/raised median/physical barrier Vehicles behind the bus MUST stop. Vehicles traveling in the opposite direction must proceed with caution. The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 91 STUDY GUIDE FOR KNOWLEDGE EXAM Answers are available at: flhsmv.gov/handbooks-manuals. 1. In your vehicle, what should you adjust before you start your engine? 2. What are the equipment requirements for windshields and side windows? 3. What are bumper height requirements? Are they the same for every vehicle? 4. What must you do if hauling a load of material which could fall or blow onto the roadway? 5. When a projected load extends more than 4 feet from the vehicle, what must you use to clearly mark it in the daytime? At night? 6. Why is drowsy driving dangerous? 7. What should you do if another driver is threatening you or intentionally driving dangerously around you? 8. What are the three main categories of distracted driving? 9. Why is texting one of the most dangerous distracted driving behaviors? 10. Can anyone drink and drive safely? 11. Both your judgment and vision are affected after drinking alcohol. Which is affected first? 12. What can happen to you if you are in a crash and not wearing a safety belt? 13. What age are children required to be in a rear-facing car seat? In a forward- facing car seat or booster seat? 14. If a law enforcement officer stops a vehicle and the front seat passenger under 18 years old is not wearing a safety belt, who will be charged with the safety belt violation? 15. What does a single broken white line on the highway mean? 16. What does a double solid yellow line in the center of the highway mean? A double solid white line? 17. What does a solid yellow line to the right of the center line of the road mean? 18. What do the colors of traffic signs indicate (red, orange, yellow, etc.)? 19. More than one vehicle approaches an all way stop sign, who moves first? 20. What does a red traffic light mean? What if it's a flashing red light mean? 21. After a full stop at a red traffic light when may a driver turn right? 22. What does a green arrow showing at the same time as a red traffic light mean you can do? 92 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� 23. What does a flashing yellow light mean? 24. If you are approaching a railroad crossing that does not have gates or lights and you see a train coming, what should you do? 25. What happens to the force of impact when you double your speed? Triple your speed? 26. Unless otherwise posted, what is the speed limit in a residential area? 27. What is the maximum speed limit on a limited access highway? 28. Can you be issued a citation for driving too slowly? 29. What are the steps for making a smooth stop? 30. What is the arm signal for a left turn? Right turn? Slow or stop? 31. How long (distance) should you signal before making a left or right turn? 32. When can you use a three-point turn? Where should you never make a three-point turn? 33. What is an open intersection? When must you yield right-of-way? 34. When may you drive in the left lane of a two lane road? With four lanes? 35. What does it mean if you see red reflectors on the lane lines facing you? What should you do? 36. What is the recommended safe following distance? When should you increase your following distance? 37. What are blind spots? 38. How do you check your blind spots before you change lanes or turn? 39. Where is it unlawful to overtake and pass? 40. Under what circumstances can you stop in the acceleration lane on an expressway? 41. What should you do if you drive past your exit on a limited access highway? 42. Where should you move your vehicle if you break down on the highway? 43. What is the farthest away you can park from a curb? 44. If you have a manual transmission, what gear should you put the car in when parking downhill? Uphill? What if you have an automatic transmission? 45. Where is parking prohibited? 46. Which way should you turn your wheels when parking uphill along a curb? What about uphill without a curb? 47. Which way should you turn your wheels if parking downhill? 48. Are motorists required to stop or yield for pedestrians crossing the street? The Official Florida Driver License Handbook—rev. 08/2023 93 ......................................................................... sTuDY guiDe for KnoWLeDge eXam 49. What do you do if you see a pedestrian with a white cane in the street ahead of you? 50. What is the minimum distance a motorist must give when traveling next to a cyclist? 51. As a motorist, what should you do when preparing to turn right on a roadway with a bike lane? 52. When on the roadway, do motorcyclists and moped riders have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers? 53. As a motorist, are you allowed to share a lane with a motorcyclist? 54. When a school bus is stopped to unload children on a highway divided with a raised barrier, are vehicles traveling in the opposite direction required to stop? 55. When a school bus stops to unload children, are vehicles traveling in the same direction required to stop? 56. What must you do when children or school crossing guards are present in a crosswalk? 57. What must you do if an emergency vehicle with activated lights and/or sirens is approaching you from behind? 58. What does the Move Over Law require you to do? 59. What is a “No Zone”? 60. At what times must you use your headlights? 61. At night, within how many feet of approaching a vehicle from the rear must you dim your high beam headlights? 62. Within how many feet of an oncoming vehicle should you dim your high beam headlights? 63. When driving in the rain, fog or smoke in the daytime, what lights should you use? 64. What should you do when driving on wet roads in the rain? Why? 65. What should you do if your right wheels go off the pavement while driving? 66. What should you do if your tires begin to skid while driving? 67. When emergency braking, what is the difference between conventional brakes and anti-lock brakes (ABS)? 68. What should you do during a tire blow-out? 69. What must you do if you are involved in a minor accident and your vehicle is blocking the flow of traffic? 70. If you hit a parked car and cannot find the owner, what should you do?

94 ©2023 Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles �� 71. What are the penalties for leaving the scene of a crash involving injury or death? 72. What are the requirements of the No-Fault Law? 73. If your license and registration are suspended for being in violation of the No-Fault Law, what must you do to get them reinstated? 74. What are the penalties if you are at fault in a crash and you are not insured in compliance with the Financial Responsibility Law? 75. What are the time restrictions for a motorist with a learner’s license? 76. What are the time restrictions for a licensed motorist under age 17? Under age 18? 77. When can you be charged with driving under the influence (DUI)? 78. What are the penalties for refusing to take a blood test, a urine test, or a breath test when suspected of driving under the influence? 79. What can happen if you are found guilty of racing on the highway? 80. If you have a learner’s license, how many hours of driving experience are required to earn the Class E driver license? 81. What education course are you required to take if you are applying for a learner’s license (or have never held a driver license)? 82. Are you required to notify FLHSMV of any health problems that may affect your driving? 83. Why would one opt to take a Basic Driver Improvement Course? 84. What maneuvers are required on a driving exam? Check out all you can do at mydmvportal.flhsmv.gov Renew or replace your driver license or identification card Find locations and contact information for motor vehicle service centers and Tax Collector offices Renew your vehicle and vessel registration Check personalized plate availability Register emergency contact info Find third-party exam providers Change your address on your driver license Download driver license handbooks Order your driving record Order a crash report Check the status of your driver license Order a paper title Clear insurance related sanctions on your license View and/or print documents from MyDMVPortal Reinstate your driver license View live road conditions report from FHP Check your driving school eligibility Monitor the driving history of your teen View your sanction history Access safety information Create your own account now at MyDMVPortal.flhsmv.gov to access all our online services! The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles offers a variety of services ranging from address changes to renewals at: MyDMVPortal.flhsmv.gov. To complete vehicle and vessel registration renewals, customers may also download the FLHSMV MyFlorida mobile app. The MyFlorida app allows customers to securely renew a registration on an eligible vehicle or vessel and receive proof of transaction to use until the registration arrives in the mail. The MyFlorida app is available to download for free now via iTunes and Google Play.

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