How to Prepare for a Florida Driving Test

All individuals who want a Class E Florida license must pass both a knowledge test and a driving test. Studying the Florida's driver's handbook, taking practice tests, driving every day and soliciting feedback will help ensure that you're prepared on test day.

Preparing for the Knowledge Test

Per Florida's driver's handbook, the knowledge test contains 50 multiple-choice questions. Ten of the questions deal with the color, shape or meaning of a road sign. The remaining 40 are about Florida traffic laws and road rules. You pass the exam if you miss no more than nine questions.

DMV.org notes that the best way to prepare for the knowledge test -- also known as the permit test -- is to study Florida's driver's handbook and take a few practice tests. When you're studying the handbook, take careful note of rules about:

  • Traffic signals and traffic signs.
  • Pavement markings, multi-lane roads and crosswalks.
  • Signaling, passing, turning, stopping and parking.
  • Practicing defensive driving and handling aggressive driving.
  • Right-of-way
  • Who may operate a vehicle.

The Florida DMV offers one practice knowledge test that you can use to prepare. If you want to try different questions, Driving-Tests.org offers more sample exams.

Preparing for the Road Test

The final test for your Florida license is the road test. During this test you'll be expected to perform the following maneuvers:

  • Complete a three-point turn
  • Shift gears
  • Approach a crossing
  • Observe right-of-way
  • Park in a parking space
  • Park on a grade
  • Stop quickly
  • Back up for 50 feet
  • Obey stop signs
  • Obey traffic signals
  • Signal and turn
  • Pass or change lanes
  • Stay in a lane
  • Follow at a safe distance
  • Drive with proper posture

The best way to prepare for the driving test is to practice, practice, practice. Applicants are required to log at least 50 hours of driving with a licensed adult while they have their permit and 10 of those hours must be at night.

Commit to driving on a daily basis so you can experience a variety of driving situations. Ask your passenger for feedback and continue to practice your weaker areas. You also can set up a mock driver's test for yourself by practicing the exact maneuvers you'll have to do on test day, like backing up or parking in a straight-line spot.

Enrolling in a behind-the-wheel driving program will give you the practice and feedback you need to improve your skills. Behind-the-wheel training is mandatory for drivers under the age of 18 who apply for a license but is optional for adults. You can find an approved behind-the-wheel program on the Florida DMV website.