Florida Summer Driving: The Local Laws and Risks Teens Often Miss

Florida summers bring distinctive driving challenges—from pop-up thunderstorms to unique teen driving laws that often get overlooked. Here’s how to navigate them confidently and legally.

Real-World Driving Risks That Heat Up in Florida

Pop-Up Thunderstorms and Hydroplaning
Under Florida Statute 316.185, you are required to adjust your speed when road conditions worsen. Sudden rainstorms can cause hydroplaning—with slick oil residue on your tires—so slow down and activate headlights when using your wipers.

Tourist Traffic and Sudden Stops
With beaches and attractions packed, defensive driving is essential. If you're prepping for your road test, check out our guide Acing the Florida Driving TestWhat Skills Are Tested Florida Drivers License Road Test Trending to practice real-world scenarios like unexpected stops and lane changes.

Blinding Sun and Fogged Windshields
Per Statute 316.217, headlights are required anytime visibility is reduced—not just at night. Don’t rely on daylight running lights. Use full headlights during glare, fog, or heavy rain.

Florida Laws Teens Commonly Miss

Texting and Driving (F.S. 316.305)
Florida bans texting while driving—even at red lights. It's a primary offense, so an officer can pull you over just for that. Learn more in our comparison of teen vs. adult drivers ed formatsFlorida Drivers Ed Teen Vs Adult Whats Difference Trending.

Move Over Law (F.S. 316.126)
You must move over or slow down 20 mph below the limit when passing emergency or service vehicles with flashing lights. It's heavily enforced—don’t risk the fine or points.

Teen Driving Curfew (F.S. 322.16, F.S. 322.1615)
Teens under 17 may only drive between 11 p.m.–6 a.m. (or 1 a.m.–5 a.m. if 17), unless accompanied or commuting. Breaking curfew can result in suspension or limitations—find the full guide in the FLHSMV Teen Driving FAQLicensing Requirements Teens Graduated Driver License Laws Driving Curfews Frequently Asked Questions Driver Licenses Id Cards.

Passenger Limitations
Florida’s GDL system limits passengers for new drivers. Learners must drive with a licensed adult, and newly licensed teens face restrictions on non-family passengers. Details are in the FLHSMV Licensing Requirements for TeensLicensing Requirements Teens Graduated Driver License Laws Driving Curfews Driver Licenses Id Cards.

Even If You Feel Confident, These Laws Still Apply

Even experienced teenage drivers can miss these key points:

• Thinking daylight running lights are enough? Visibility laws disagree.

• Assuming texting only during motion is banned? Florida says zero texting—anytime.

• Believing local curfews are flexible? They’re state law—and enforceable.

Smart Summer Habits for Florida Drivers

• Prep for weather surprises: check for rain before driving

• Use full headlights with wipers or low visibility

• Stick to curfew rules

• Be patient around busy beach zones

• Silence your phone—every time

Want to Dive Deeper?

• Reducing insurance costs? Read Understanding Florida’s drivers ed and insurance discount connectionUnderstanding Floridas Drivers Ed And Insurance Discount Connection Trending to learn how completing a state-approved course can save you 5–15%.

• Curious about online teen courses? See our post on How to Take Florida Driver’s Ed Online (Updated for 2025)How Take Florida Drivers Ed Online Trending for all you need to know about DETS requirements.

• Looking for law updates? The 2025 Senate Bill 994 / HB 889, effective July 1, 2025, now requires a 50‑hour classroom driver education course plus DETS—see the Florida House Bill summary for details.

Quick Recap for Florida Teen Drivers

Florida’s summer driving comes with serious risks: sudden storms, tourist traffic, and strict laws teens often miss. Key things to remember—slow down in rain, use full headlights with wipers, don’t text behind the wheel, follow curfews, and move over for emergency vehicles. Knowing these laws can help you avoid tickets—and accidents. Need a full refresher? Start your Florida drivers ed courseFlorida today.