A new state law takes effect Aug. 1 requiring all drivers under 18 years old complete a Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) approved driver education course.
But many school districts— like Osceola—no longer offer the course in the classroom outside of select summer dates.
Florida Virtual School (FLVS) can help students meet the mandate with its online program taught by certified teachers. The FLVS Driver Education course is tuition-free for many Florida students.
Previously, the law only required anyone under the age of 18 to complete a Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course.
“We understand that high school students and families are balancing multiple priorities, and adding a Driver Education course to their plans shouldn’t be a challenge,” said Florida Virtual School Chief Academic Officer Robin Winder. “That’s why our fully online course offers the flexibility and accessibility students need to meet this requirement seamlessly.”
Students can also earn 0.5 elective credit toward high school graduation and can start the course right away.
Upon successful completion of the FLVS Driver Education course and earning a learner’s license, students are encouraged to gain practical driving experience through behind-thewheel instruction. FLVS partners with many counties across Florida to provide students access to free or low-cost driving lessons. Timing, availability, and program details vary by county, and FLVS helps connect students and families with the appropriate local resources based on their place of residence.
To enroll or learn more about the FLVS Driver Education course, visit the FLVS website at www.flvs.net/drivered.
FLVS just announced that registration for all students (K12) has been extended through July 31. The first day of school for students in the full-time option is August 18.
