Driving with children in Florida involves more than just safe driving habits. As a parent, you're also responsible for complying with specific state laws that prioritize child safety and responsible conduct on the road. Florida's regulations evolve over time, and 2025 brings updates that every parent should know before they buckle their kids into the car.

Child Car Seat Laws

Florida mandates child car seat usage based on age, height, and weight. Children aged five or under must be secured in a federally approved child restraint device. Infants and toddlers should be placed in rear-facing car seats until they exceed the manufacturer's height or weight limits. Once they graduate to forward-facing seats, they must still use a harness system until at least the age of four. Booster seats are mandatory until a child turns six, although many safety experts advise keeping kids in boosters until seat belts fit properly.

For more details on specific requirements by age and seat type, check out our Complete Guide to Child Car Seat Laws in Florida. It offers everything parents need to stay compliant in 2025.

Seat Belt Requirements for Older Children

Even after your child is no longer in a booster, Florida law still requires all passengers under the age of 18 to wear a seat belt. The shoulder strap must lie across the chest, not the neck, and the lap belt should rest across the upper thighs. Not complying can lead to fines and points against your driving record.

School Zone Speed Limits

Many parents drop off or pick up their kids from school every day. In these zones, Florida enforces reduced speed limits during specific hours. Typically, the limit drops to 15–20 mph when school is in session. Failing to observe this can result in hefty fines and increased insurance premiums. Speeding in a school zone is considered a serious infraction due to the high risk to children crossing the street.

No Texting While Driving Law

Distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of car accidents involving children. Florida law prohibits texting while driving under its Wireless Communications While Driving Law. As of 2025, stricter penalties are being implemented, including increased fines and license points. If you're in a school or construction zone, using a handheld device is completely banned, even at red lights. Parents should model safe, distraction-free driving habits for their kids.

Child Left Unattended in a Vehicle

Leaving a child alone in a car, even briefly, can lead to serious consequences. Florida law considers it a second-degree misdemeanor to leave a child under six unattended in a vehicle for more than 15 minutes. If the vehicle is running or the child appears to be in distress, even a shorter time could lead to criminal charges. Heatstroke can occur rapidly in Florida's climate, making this law essential for child safety.

DUI Laws and Child Endangerment

Driving under the influence is always illegal, but the penalties are far more severe when a minor is present in the vehicle. Florida classifies DUI with a child passenger as an aggravated offense. It can result in higher fines, mandatory jail time, and the potential loss of custody in extreme cases. Parents should be especially cautious about alcohol intake before driving—even a small amount can have serious legal consequences when children are involved.

School Bus Laws for Drivers

Many parents may be unaware of the strict regulations surrounding school buses in Florida. When a school bus stops and displays a stop sign, all vehicles traveling in the same direction must halt. On two-lane roads, traffic in both directions is required to stop. Failing to do so is a moving violation with steep penalties, including license suspension. This law exists to protect children who may cross the road unexpectedly.

Parking in School Zones and Fire Lanes

Parents often try to park close to the school entrance during drop-off and pickup times. However, parking in fire lanes or blocking entrances violates local and state ordinances. You must follow signage and never leave your vehicle in prohibited areas, even temporarily. Doing so can incur fines and cause traffic congestion that puts children at risk.

New 2025 Hands-Free Zones

Starting in 2025, Florida has expanded hands-free driving zones to include more public spaces. Beyond schools and construction sites, hands-free requirements now apply in playground zones and designated child safety areas. Drivers caught with a device in hand in these zones will face double penalties. These updates aim to reduce distractions and improve focus where children are most vulnerable.

Car Insurance Implications

Complying with Florida driving laws not only ensures safety but also affects your car insurance rates. Violations involving child safety, like improper car seat use or speeding in school zones, can cause premium increases or policy cancellations. Parents should understand that insurers view these infractions as high-risk behavior. Maintaining a clean record is essential for both legal and financial reasons.

Protecting Your Family

Ultimately, knowing the law helps you protect what matters most, your children. Laws around car seat use, distracted driving, and school zones aren't just regulations, they're safeguards. Florida's 2025 driving updates emphasize accountability, safety, and prevention. Parents who stay informed and lead by example help create a safer road environment for everyone.