Buying a Car with a Learner's Permit in Florida: What You Need to Know

Learner's permits are given to help teens learn how to drive safely. With a learner's permit in Florida, you are allowed to drive between daylight hours only for the first three months and always with a licensed driver over the age of 21. After three months, curfew is 10 p.m. It is possible to buy a car in Florida when you have your learner's permit, but you may face some complications.

Features

It is not required by law in Florida that you must have a license to purchase a car. Licensing is only required to drive a car and does not affect the purchasing process. However, dealerships may require a license if you are applying for a loan or a lease for the vehicle. You can pay cash to purchase a used car in Florida while only holding a learner's permit.

Considerations

An insurance company in Florida is not likely to provide you with an individual policy for the newly purchased car if you only have your learner's permit. Instead, they may be willing to add you and the car onto your parent's policy if you live at home. The reason that the insurance company requires a license is it gives them access to a driving record to rate you on.

Time Frame

Your insurance company may give you a time frame to meet licensing requirements to keep your policy active on your newly purchased car. According to the Car Insurance website, companies may require that you have upgraded your learner's permit to a full license within 30 days to continue coverage. The car may continue to be insured if you are not listed as a driver on the policy.

Significance

To register a vehicle in Florida, you must present the vehicle title and proof of insurance. If you were able to obtain both of these items with only a learner's permit, you can register the car. Once registered, you'll be given plates and allowed to drive the vehicle. However, you must still follow the restrictions placed on your learner's permit. Otherwise, you may have the permit taken away.