5/25/06-A bill that would have increased the state’s driving age from 16 to 17 has died.
S1852, sponsored by Sen. Burt Saunders, R-Naples, was withdrawn from consideration.
The bill would have changed the earliest age to get a learner’s permit from 15 to 16 years. That would have delayed 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.
An identical House bill – HB975 – also died.

3/14/06-A bill in two Senate transportation panels would increase the state’s driving age from 16 to 17.
S1852, sponsored by Sen. Burt Saunders, R-Naples, 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.
An identical House bill – HB975 – is in the House Transportation Committee.