Short Answer
The Florida Basic Driver Improvement (BDI) course is a state-mandated 4-hour course. You may complete it in a single sitting or spread it out over multiple sessions — your progress is saved automatically.
State Requirement
Florida law requires the BDI course to be a minimum of 4 hours.
This rule is set by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV).
Every approved provider must meet this exact requirement — no more, no less.
Important: If a course claims to be shorter than 4 hours, it is not approved by the state.
Flexible Completion
You may complete the course in one continuous session or across multiple sessions.
Your progress is automatically saved, so you can pause and resume at any time.
Breaks do not count toward your course time — only active learning is recorded.
What Affects the Time It Takes You
Reading Speed: Some students finish close to 4 hours; others may take longer.
Breaks: If you log out or step away, your break time does not reduce the required 4 hours.
Quizzes/Review: Time spent on quizzes and reviews is part of the 4-hour course.
Final Exam: The exam itself is not timed and may add extra minutes to your total completion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I finish in less than 4 hours?
A: No. The system is designed to meet the minimum 4-hour requirement.
Q: Is there a maximum time limit to complete the course?
A: The course itself does not expire, but your court, clerk, or FLHSMV may set a deadline (commonly 30–90 days).
Q: If I stop halfway, does my time reset?
A: No. Progress and time tracking continue from where you left off.
Q: Do breaks count toward the 4 hours?
A: No. Only the time spent actively working in the course counts.
At a Glance: Florida BDI Course Timing
Requirement | Details |
Minimum Course Length | 4 hours (state-mandated) |
Set by | FLHSMV |
Flexible Completion | Yes – one sitting or multiple sessions |
Progress Saving | Automatic |
Breaks Allowed | Yes – but not counted in time |
Exam Time | Extra, not included in 4-hour minimum |
Why the 4-Hour Rule Matters
Ensures consistency across all approved providers.
Gives students enough time to learn defensive driving and Florida traffic law.
Prevents providers from offering “shortcuts” that would not meet state approval.
Protects your license by making sure your completion is fully valid statewide.