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In Florida you do not have to take your driver license exams at a state office. FLHSMV contracts private and public organizations, known as third party administrators (TPAs), to give the Class E knowledge exam and the driving skills test, and the state accepts their results. This page explains how TPA testing works, the online knowledge exam for under 18s, and the random retest you may be called for.
Florida third party testing: key facts
- Florida law (s. 322.56) lets FLHSMV authorize schools, companies, organizations and local government bodies to give the written and driving skills exams.
- A TPA test must be the same as the test the state would give (s. 322.56(2)).
- Under 18s can take the knowledge exam online through an approved TPA. Applicants 18 and over test in person.
- FLHSMV must retest a random sample of TPA-approved drivers at least once a year (s. 322.56(3)(e)). A random retest is free.
- The provider sets its own price. State retest fees after a failed exam are $10 (knowledge) and $20 (skills) under s. 322.12, as of November 2026.
Testing options in Florida
| Option | Knowledge exam | Driving skills test |
|---|---|---|
| Driver license office or tax collector office | In person, any age | Yes |
| Third party administrator, in person | Yes | Yes, with an approved TPA |
| Third party administrator, online | Under 18 only | No |
The online knowledge exam for Florida teens
Section 322.56(8) sets the rules for online Class E learner exams:
- Before the exam, your parent, guardian or responsible adult gives the provider their driver license number and certifies they will monitor you while you test.
- Security questions: you answer personal questions set before the exam, to deter fraud.
- Results go to FLHSMV electronically. That electronic record is the official proof you passed.
- At the office, before the learner’s license is issued, the same adult certifies that they monitored you.
Cheating has a cost: anyone found to have cheated or got around any part of the exam must retake it (s. 322.12(3)(b)). See the Florida knowledge test.
Taking the driving skills test with a TPA
- You must meet the same requirements as at a state office: 12 months on a learner’s license if under 18, a clean record, and certified 50 hours. See the 50 hour certification.
- The maneuvers and vehicle checks are the same. See every maneuver on the Florida driving test.
- Under s. 322.56(5), you must give FLHSMV proof that you passed before the license is issued. Bring the TPA paperwork the provider gives you.
The random retest: what to expect
Because state law requires FLHSMV to retest a random sample of TPA-approved drivers, you may be told at the office that you must take the exam again before your license is issued.
- The random retest is free and can happen without prior notice.
- Pass it and FLHSMV issues your license.
- Fail it and, according to FLHSMV, a re-exam fee is collected at your next attempt.
Prepare as if you might have to take the test twice.
How to choose a Florida TPA
- Ask the provider to confirm it is an FLHSMV-approved third party administrator for Class E exams.
- Ask for the full price up front, including the knowledge exam, any retake and the skills test.
- Ask whether you use your own car or the provider’s. Either way it must pass the vehicle inspection.
- Ask how results are sent to FLHSMV and what paperwork you need to bring to the office.
Common questions
Is a Florida third party test easier?
No. By law it must be the same test the state gives.
Can I take the Florida permit test online at 18?
No. Online knowledge exams are for under 18s only.
How much does a TPA charge?
Each provider sets its own fee. Compare a few before booking.
What happens if I am selected for a retest?
You take the exam again at the office at no charge. Your license is issued once you pass.
Do I still go to a driver license office?
Yes. Your license is issued at a driver license or tax collector office after your results are received.
Related: TLSAE and DETS, US road test by state. Back to the Florida learning to drive guide.
Sources
- Florida Legislature, “Florida Statutes s. 322.56, Contracts for administration of driver license examination” (leg.state.fl.us)
- Florida Legislature, “Florida Statutes s. 322.12, Examination of applicants” (leg.state.fl.us)
- Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, “Third Party Administrator Program” (flhsmv.gov)
- Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, “Class E Knowledge Exam & Driving Skills Test” (flhsmv.gov)