5/26/06-A bill has died that sought to change the earliest age to get a learner’s permit to drive in Florida from 15 to 16 years.
Sponsored by Rep. Irv Slosberg, D-Boca Raton, the bill remained in the House Transportation Committee when the session ended, effectively killing it for the year.
HB975 also would have delayed by one year the required age to qualify for a driver’s license. Teens now can qualify for the privilege at age 16.
Florida law already limits when a 16- or 17-year-old can be behind the wheel.
Sixteen-year-olds cannot be on the road between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., unless accompanied by someone 21 years or older or driving to work. And 17-year-olds are prohibited from driving between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m.

2/24/06-A bill in the House Transportation Committee would increase the state’s driving age from 16 to 17.
Sponsored by Rep. Irv Slosberg, D-Boca Raton, HB975 would change the earliest age to get a learner’s permit from 15 to 16 years. That would delay by one year the required age to qualify for a driver’s license.
Florida law already limits when a 16- or 17-year-old can be behind the wheel.
Sixteen-year-olds cannot be on the road between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., unless accompanied by someone 21 years or older or driving to work. A 17-year-old is prohibited from driving between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m.
For bill status, call (850) 488-4371. In Florida, call 1-800-342-1827.