F-1 Student FAQs

1. How many credit hours must I complete to maintain my full-time status?

Undergraduate

• 12 credits (Fall/Spring)
• If Summer is your first semester at the University of West Florida, you must maintain a minimum of 12 credit hours.

Graduate

• 9 credits (Fall/Spring) (Department may require up to 12 credit hours)
• If Summer is your first semester at the University of West Florida, you must maintain a minimum of 6 credit hours.

2. What must I do if I am unable to maintain full-time status?

If there is a legitimate reason (i.e. academic or medical problem), you should contact  your international student advisor at the International Center for advisement.

3. How do I update my address?

Your address can be updated by submitting the request through your MyUWF account.

4. How do I transfer to another school as an F-1?

Follow these guidelines:

• Be admitted to the school where you want to transfer.
• Contact their International Center and ask them what they need to issue you an  I-20 as a transfer student.
• Obtain a transfer from UWF.
• Once we have transferred your record out and you have your new school's I-20, go to the International Student Advisor at the new school to finalize the transfer.

5. Can an F-1 student apply for work permission?

As an F-1 student, you are eligible to work on campus up to 20 hours per week when school is in session and up to 40 hours per week during authorized breaks.  An F-1 student may not work off campus. Permission to work off campus may be granted by the United States Citizen & Immigration Services (USCIS) when there is economic necessity due to unforeseen changes in financial circumstances. One cannot submit a request to USCIS for work off campus until they have completed 9 months of study.

6. Can the spouse or child on an F-2 visa work?

An F-2 cannot work on or off campus under any condition.

7. What is the expiration date of my I-94?

Almost every I-94 has an expiration date of D/S. This stands for Duration of Status – the period during which the student is pursuing a full-time course of study in any education program. If there is a specific date indicated on your I-94, please let the International Student Advisor know.

8. I did not turn in my I-94 when I left the U.S., what should I do?

Failure to turn in your I-94 (or I-94W) when you leave the U.S. can create a serious problem. Without this record of your departure, you will be identified in our records as an "overstay." Being identified as an overstay means that you will be denied re-entry into the U.S. If you failed to turn in your I-94, please send it - along with any documentation that proves you left the U.S. to ACS Inc.1084 South Laurel Rd., London, Kentucky 40744.
Documentation to prove your departure can include the boarding pass from your flight. If you exited the country by a land border, it is much harder to verify that you did - in fact - leave the country on the date you claim. If you have any documentation of your arrival in your home country (i.e. passport stamp), then you should send a copy of that. If the above office does not have any supporting documents to substantiate your claim to have left the U.S. on a certain date, there is no guarantee that you will be entered into the record as having done so. We strongly urge you to keep a copy of what you send to ACS Inc. and to carry it with you the next time you come to the U.S. in case the CBP officer has any questions about your eligibility to enter.
If you want to confirm that your I-94 was received by ACS, please give ACS 4 months to process the paperwork. Then you can write to the following address to determine whether or not your departure was recorded. If you turned in the I-94 when you left the U.S. as required, please do NOT request confirmation that it is on file. This process is only for people who did not turn in the I-94 when they exited the U.S.
You will need to provide your name, date of birth, passport number, and date of departure, in addition to asking whether or not your departure was recorded. U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air Sea Passenger Operations, Room 5.4D, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W., Washington D.C. 20229.

9. When may I take a vacation or holiday from my academic study?

Breaks between terms and Spring break are good times to travel for short periods of time.

If you maintain full-time status for Spring term and will have full-time status in the Fall term, then you can take the entire Summer off.

10. How do I visit Canada or Mexico?

You should first determine if a visa is required for citizens of your country to enter Canada or Mexico. If you need a visa, contact the nearest Canada/Mexico consulate office well in advance of your planned trip. In some cases, one month is needed to process a visa application.

For a trip less than 30 days in duration, you will need to take these documents:

• Valid I-94
• Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
• Endorsed signature page or a new I-20 or a DS-2019 form with endorsement on the front page
• A U.S. visa stamp (does not need to be valid unless it is marked with 212 (d)(3)(28) and is exempt from automatic re-validation)

11. How can I have my family join me in America if I have an F-1 visa?

Your spouse and/or children may be permitted to enter the U.S. on an F-2 visa, which may be obtained with a new I-20. Proof of sufficient financial support for your dependent is required before the request can be approved.
Current estimated fees are $ 1000.00 (US) per spouse and child for one semester.

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J-1 Exchange Visitor FAQs

1. What are the Required Visa Fees?

Each applicant for a visa must pay a nonrefundable $100 (U.S. currency) nonimmigrant visa application processing fee. If the visa is issued, there may be an additional visa issuance reciprocity fee for citizens of certain countries.

2. Do All Exchange Visitors have to pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee?

Most J-1 exchange visitors are required to pay a one-time SEVIS fee of $180 (U.S. currency).  All those applying for a J-1 visa for initial participation in a program must pay this fee. In addition, those already in the United States applying for a change of status to J-1 must pay the fee, as does an exchange visitor applying for a change of category.

Exceptions:
Government sponsored exchange visitors who are participating in programs with a program number that begins with G-1, G-2, G-3, or G-7 do not need to pay the fee.

Continuing exchange visitors do not pay the SEVIS I-901 fee when they:

• Reenter the United States to continue participation in an exchange visitor program or program of study as long as nonimmigrant status was maintained
• Already paid the SEVIS fee, but the visa was denied within the last 12 months, and they are applying again for a visa in the same exchange visitor category
• Transfer between programs in the same exchange visitor category, unless the new program requires a higher fee
• Apply to extend their stay in order to complete the current program within the maximum duration of participation of the category in which they are participating 

There are no fee waivers available for the SEVIS I-901 fee. For more information see:
https://www.fmjfee.com/i901fee/.

3. What Is the Visa Interview Like?

Once the exchange visitor receives the Form DS-2019 from the sponsor, he or she must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee and make a visa appointment at the U.S. embassy or consulate nearest his or her home. At the visa appointment, the consular officer will determine whether the potential exchange visitor qualifies for the visa. Applicants must demonstrate that they properly meet the requirements to be issued an exchange visitor visa, including the following:

• That they plan to remain in the United States for a temporary, specific, limited period;
• Evidence of funds to cover expenses in the United States;
• Evidence of compelling social and economic ties to their home country.

4. Which Documents Are Most Important for the Exchange Visitor?

The critical documents that each exchange visitor must protect for the duration of his or her stay in the United States are:

• All Forms DS-2019 issued
• Passport
• Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record (small white card stapled in passport by the Immigration Officer at the port of entry). 

It is the responsibility of the RO/ARO to make sure the exchange visitor understands what each of these documents signifies. Exchange visitors should be advised to keep a copy of their Form DS-2019 even beyond the end of their program in case it is needed at some future point.

5. What is the “Grace Period” for Exchange Visitors (J-1)?

The grace period for exchange visitors who have completed their program is thirty (30) days and is linked to the period of admission specified on the Form DS-2019. If an exchange visitor decides to go home early and does not complete the terms of his/her program, he/she is expected to depart immediately and is not afforded the benefit of the 30-day grace period for departure.

The Immigration and Nationality Act states that any nonimmigrant visa holder in the United States who fails to maintain the nonimmigrant status in which they were admitted is deportable [INA 237(a)(1)(C)(i).] Any exchange visitor who ceases to pursue his or her program falls out of status and could be found to be unlawfully present.

6. How does an exchange visitor “Maintain Program Status”?

Exchange Visitors are admitted to the United States for a specific period of time to engage in a particular program (activity), as described on their Form DS-2019. Exchange visitors must take care during their stay to maintain lawful (J-1) program status, as failure to do so can have serious long-term consequences.

Key Reminders:

• Exchange visitors must know the expiration date of their program (the end date in section 3 of the DS-2019 Form) and the expected departure date. If regulations permit and the Exchange visitors J-1 program is extended, the sponsor must use SEVIS to change the end date on the Form DS-2019 prior to the expiration date of the original Form, reprint the Form, sign it in blue ink and give it to the exchange visitor.
• When traveling outside the United States, exchange visitors must first obtain a “travel signature” on the Form DS-2019 to facilitate re-entry. Exchange visitors should be reminded to retain all copies of Form DS-2019 with their immigration papers.
• Exchange visitors must never accept unauthorized employment.
• Exchange visitors must comply with the Department of State's health insurance requirements for J-1 visa holders and their families. Willful disregard of this requirement will result in termination of the J-1 program.
• Exchange visitors must keep their passports valid. Passports can be renewed by foreign embassies in Washington D.C. and foreign consulates in other cities. For information about embassies, see http://www.embassy.org .

7. How do I extend my stay, change program sponsors, or transfer schools on a J-1 visa?

J-1 visa holders who wish to extend their stay will need to secure a new DS-2019 from their sponsor. This should be done prior to the expiration date on the DS-2019. If you are changing programs or transferring schools, you must have permission from your sponsor. Permission is indicated on the new DS-2019. Please check with the International Student Office if you have any questions.

8. Can J-1 and/or J-2 visa holders work?

J-1 visa holders can work on campus up to 20 hours with permission from their sponsor. J-2 visa holders (spouse or dependents of J-1) can request permission from USCIS to work if the additional income goes to support the J-2 visa holders only.

9. What does the notation “D/S” on the I-94 card mean?

Exchange visitors (J-1) are admitted to the United States for the period of time necessary to complete their program, and are given the notation “D/S” (Duration of Status) on their I-94 Arrival/Departure Record at the port of entry. They are permitted to stay to the end date listed on the Form DS-2019, plus the 30-day grace period, as long as they have participated actively in their program.

For nonimmigrants admitted with duration of status, unlawful presence begins to
accrue on the date U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services finds a status violation while adjudicating a request for an immigration benefit (for example, a request for a change of status), or when an immigration judge finds a status violation during proceedings.

For nonimmigrants admitted with a date certain (as opposed to D/S), unlawful presence begins to accrue on the datethe Form I-94 expires.

10. What are the sponsor’s responsibilities toward exchange participants in the event of a national emergency or natural disaster?

Though not a regulatory requirement, sponsors should have a plan in place for contacting and providing safety information and instructions to exchange visitor participants and their dependents, as well as prospective exchange visitors, in the event of a natural disaster or national emergency.

11. What should the exchange visitor do if the Form DS-2019 is lost or stolen?

The Exchange visitor should contact the International Student Office.  Forms DS-2019 can be reprinted in SEVIS when necessary, with an appropriate explanation entered in the exchange visitor’s record. 

12. What should the exchange visitor do if he or she loses his or her passport?

A foreign visitor in the United State who loses their passport must immediately contact their embassy or consulate to report the loss and find out how to replace it. The following website provides information on each of the embassies in Washington, D.C.
http://www.embassy.org/embassies/

13. Who signs the form DS-2019 issued for a dependent of the exchange visitor?

The exchange visitor should sign the form DS-2019 issued for his or her dependent, be it the spouse or children.

14. What are the implications when a dependent turns 21?

An accompanying family member who turns 21 years of age is no longer eligible to be in the United States as a dependent in J-2 status, and must depart the country or apply for a change to another type of nonimmigrant status.

15. Where Can I Find Useful Travel Tips?

http://usembassy.state.gov/
http://www.ice.gov/sevis/students/index.htm

16. Where Can I Find Information About Visas?

http://www.unitedstatesvisas.gov/visapolicy/faq.html
http://travel.state.gov/visa/visa_1750.html

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F-1 Employment FAQs

1. What qualifies as on-campus employment for F-1 students?
On-campus employment is defined at 8 CFR 214.2(9)(i).
There are two components for qualified on-campus employment:

• Limits on the type and location of the employment, and
• Limited to jobs that do not displace a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident

2.  Type and Location of Employment
On-campus employment for F-1 students is work that takes place either at your school or at an off-campus location that is educationally affiliated with your school. This work could be for an on-campus commercial business, like a bookstore or cafeteria, as long as the work directly provides services for students.
Employment located on-campus that does not directly involve services to students (such as construction work) does not qualify as on-campus employment. However, work with an employer that is contractually affiliated with the school is considered on-campus employment even if the work site is not located on the campus (such as a research lab affiliated with your school).
Educational affiliation means the job is associated with the school’s established curriculum or is part of contractually funded research projects at the postgraduate level.

3. What are basic guidelines for on-campus employment?
F-1 students may work at any qualifying on-campus job that does not displace a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR).
They can work up to 20 hours per week while school is in session. They may work full-time during those periods when school is not in session or during the student’s annual break.
F-1 students should report their work to the International Student Office and receive a certification letter to present to the Social Security Administration in order to be able to receive a social security number.  Work should not begin until the student has been given a social security number.
Not complying with these guidelines for on-campus employment may be a violation of status that could result in the student having to leave the United States.

4. What are the International Student Office’s responsibilities concerning F-1 student employment?

• Counsel the student concerning;
• Number of hours they can work
• Type of employment
• Need to maintain F-1 status
• Tax and social security implications
• Reporting changes in employment and hours worked
• Have a letter from each employer concerning the nature of the job and the work hours;
• Give the student a letter for social security purposes certifying that the job qualifies as on-campus employment and that the student is in F 1 status;
• Complete the Form I-9 and Foreign National Form
• Keep records on the student’s employment in the school files; and
• Terminate the student’s SEVIS record if the student engages in any unauthorized employment or works hours in excess of those allowed.

5.  When do F-1 students become eligible for on-campus employment?
F-1 students can begin working as much as 30 days before the start of classes. They need to have permission from the International Student Office before they begin work.
If an F-1 student finishes one program (such as a Bachelor’s Degree) and starts another program at the same campus, he or she may continue on-campus employment as long as he or she plans to enroll for the next term.

6. Where can on-campus jobs be located?
The job has to be physically located on the school’s campus or off-campus at the site of an educationally affiliated organization.

7. What qualifies as providing services for students?
Employment on-campus has to be for the school or for a company that contracts with the school to serve students directly.
For example, if your school contracts with a food service company, F-1 students can work for the company at school facilities. However, they cannot work for the same company at any off-campus locations.
F-1 students cannot work for a company:

• Contracting with the school for something other than student services

OR

• That does not contract with the school, even if they are physically located on school property.

For example, they cannot work for a construction company even if the job site is on the campus.
F-1 students can work for an educationally affiliated company, such as a school bookstore, even if it is not located on campus.

8.   What does educationally affiliated mean?
In the case of off-campus locations, educational affiliation means the location is associated with the school's established curriculum or related to contractually funded research projects at the post-graduate level.

9. Can F-1 students work on-campus if they enroll in a new program of study?
Yes. If an F 1 student finishes one program (such as a Bachelor’s Degree) and starts another program at the same campus, he or she may continue on-campus employment as long as he or she plans to enroll for the next term.

10. If otherwise eligible, can F-1 students continue to work on-campus with a pending application for reinstatement or change of status?
Yes.

11. How long can F-1 students continue to work on-campus?
As long as they are enrolled in school, maintaining their status, and following the guidelines for on-campus employment, F-1 students can continue to work. They should keep the International Student Office informed of any changes in employer and hours.
F-1 students cannot work on-campus after graduation unless they are continuing their education at the next program level at your school.

12. Do students have to wait one academic year before they can start working on-campus?
No.

13. Can F-1 students work at more than one on-campus job?
Yes, however, their total work hours for all jobs cannot exceed 20 hours while school is in session. They may work full-time during those periods when school is not in session or during the student’s annual break.

14. Can F-1 students work on-campus if they are participating in practical training (OPT or CPT)?
Yes, if it is pre–completion OPT. Part–time CPT can be used to supplement up to an additional 20 hours of on–campus employment. The initial 20 hours of on–campus employment are considered part of the regular allowable on–campus hours. If a student is participating in post–completion OPT, they may work full–time during the period OPT is authorized on page 3 of their I–20.

15. Can F-1 students work on-campus during the grace period after their program end date?
No. The 60 day grace period after graduation or post-completion OPT is for the student to prepare to leave the United States.

16. What are the requirements for students who transfer?

When a student transfers to your school, you have the jurisdiction over on-campus employment after the records release date. The student cannot work at the prior school after that date.
You can authorize work starting within 30 days of the program start date.

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Finances FAQs

1. I'm a Florida resident. Why am I considered an International Student?

At UWF, students who do not yet have their Green card/Permanent Resident status (approved) must apply through International Admissions. International students may be able to qualify as a Florida resident for tuition purposes if they have lived in Florida for a minimum of 12 months under one of the following statuses:
A-1, A-2, A-3, E-1, E-2, G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, G-5, H-1B, H-4, I, K-1, K-2, L-1, L-2, NATO 1,2,3,4,5,6,7, O-1, O-3, R-1, R-2, T-1, T-2, V
If you are on one of the statuses listed above and independent for Federal Income Tax purposes OR are claimed as a dependent by a parent who has one of those statuses, you can apply for Florida residency for tuition purposes by filling out a Request for Change of Residency Status Form. Completed residency forms and supporting documents must be submitted to the Office of the Registrar at least one week prior to the first day of classes for the applicable term of the semester in question.

2. How much does it cost to take classes at UWF?

The 2008-2009 estimated annual (Fall and Spring semesters) tuition and fees amount for undergraduate students is $13,080 and $16,416 for graduate students. This does not include living expenses, medical insurance, books, or food. The total expenses are estimated at $24,455 for undergraduates and $27,291 for graduates for one academic year. Please refer to the Estimated Expenses for International Students Worksheet for more information.

3. Does UWF have financial aid/scholarships for International Students?

Yes, but scholarships and financial aid are very limited and competitive. They cannot be relied on to finance your education. For more information about financial aid and types of available aid, please visit our Financial Assistance page, which lists our scholarship and linkage institute opportunities.

4. Can I get an assistantship from my department?

Yes. Some departments do offer assistantship positions, but the requirements vary for each department.  If you are interested in obtaining an assistantship position, please review the UWF Office of Graduate Studies web page for more information.

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Immigration FAQs

1. I want to study at UWF. How do I get an I-20?
You must complete the UWF International Student Application for Admission. You must provide all necessary personal, academic and financial information. If you are admissible to UWF, we will send you an I-20. You will then need to take it to the nearest Embassy or consulate to obtain your student visa for the length of time required for your requested degree.

2. I want to study English only. How do I get an I-20?
You must complete the UWF Intensive English Program Application. After you send the completed application form with the necessary financial guarantee documentation, UWF will send an I-20 to you. You will then take it to the nearest embassy or consulate to get your one-year student visa for English study only.

3. I want to study English and then study at UWF. How do I get an I-20?
You must complete both the UWF International Student Application for Admission and the UWF Intensive English Program Application. After you send the completed application form with the necessary personal, academic and financial information, UWF will send an I-20 to you. You will then take it to the nearest embassy or consulate to get your student visa for English study followed by UWF study.

4. How do I get a student visa?
Apply at the consulate nearest your home.   For more information on applying for your student visa please visit the U.S. Department of State’s website.

5. How much money do I need?
You will need to verify that you have enough for all tuition, fees and living expenses for a 9-month academic year. The estimated expenses document itemizes this information.

6. Am I considered an International student?
Generally, any student who is not a United States citizen or who does not hold a Permanent Resident Alien card (Green card) is classified as an international student – even if the student can claim Florida residency.

7. Do I have to enroll full-time?
Yes. Immigration regulations state that all international students in F-1 status (and most J-1 statuses) must enroll full-time each Fall and Spring semester. Students in other non-immigrant statuses may not have to enroll full-time. However, we advise you to clarify your immigration requirements with the International Student Office.

8. What is considered full-time?
Minimum full-time enrollment is 12 credit hours per Fall and Spring semester for undergraduate students and 9 credit hours per Fall and Spring semester for graduate students. Generally, summer study is optional for students who have studied at UWF for one full semester. Immigration regulations change frequently; therefore, please check with the International Student Office for more information.

9. If 12 hours equals full-time enrollment, does that mean I have to take 12 classes each semester?
No. Credit hours and classes are not the same thing. Think of credit hours as points. You need a certain amount of points to graduate. Each class is worth points – or credit hours. Some classes are worth 1 credit, some are worth 3 credits, and some are worth 4 credits, etc. If you choose to enroll in 4 classes that are 3 credit hours each, then you have fulfilled the 12 hours full-time enrollment requirement for undergraduate students.

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UWF and Pensacola FAQs

1. How do I get to UWF?
UWF is about 10 miles from the Pensacola Regional Airport. Taxis are available at the airport to take you to UWF, or you can complete the arrival form, giving your itinerary, and we can try to arrange for a pick up for you.

2. Is there public transportation in Pensacola?
Pensacola has taxis and a bus service (ECAT) that provides transportation to most areas.  As a student, you can receive two free bus passes per day at the Parking Services Department on campus.  In addition, the UWF main campus has a trolley service that provides transportation to a shopping area and medical facility. Pensacola’s public transit is not as convenient or efficient as in most large cities.

3. Does UWF have a medical clinic or doctor?
Yes, UWF’s Student Health Center  provides a free medical service to all enrolled students. Doctors and nurses are available Monday through Friday. Two area hospitals offer emergency care when the health center is closed.

4. What computer facilities are available at UWF?
General access computer labs are located in many buildings on campus. All labs offer lab assistants, and some labs are open 24 hours.

5. How do I find students from my country?
The International Student Office has a list of currently enrolled students.

6. What is Orientation? Do I need to go?
International Student Orientation is mandatory for all F-1 and J-1 Visa holders. Students must also complete personal Document Check-in at the International Student Office.  In addition, all first and second year (freshman and sophomore) F-1 students are required to attend UWF’s New Student Orientation.

7. Can I take classes online?
UWF offers a whole host of ways for students to take classes. Many classes are offered online. Students also have the option of earning a degree or certificate from UWF exclusively online from their home country. Students on F-1 and J-1 visas can only take one three-credit-hour class online per semester to maintain their full-time status.

8. Can I update my application for another semester?
No.  In order to change your admission to a new semester, you must complete a new application and resubmit it with the $30 application fee. Additionally, if you are a graduate student, you will need to check with your department to make sure that your admission (and financial aid, if applicable) is still valid.

9. Does UWF offer housing for students?
Yes. There are several residence halls available for UWF students. For more information about living on campus, please contact Housing and Residence Life.

10. Does UWF offer meal plans for students living on campus?
Yes. A vast array of meal plans and dining facilities are available for students living on-campus. You can view current meal plan options and rates by contacting Dining Services.

11. Do I need to have health insurance?
Yes. All international students in F-1 and J-1 status are required to have adequate health insurance as required by the State of Florida.  UWF has a policy that meets the standard requirements.  If you plan to purchase insurance from your home country or another company, you must have the insurance provider complete a health insurance compliance form. 
You will be unable to register for classes until AFTER you provide proof of enrollment in an adequate insurance plan.

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Driver's License and Car Registration FAQs

How do I obtain a driver’s license in Pensacola?
Anyone living in the state of Florida and driving a car here must have a Florida driver’s license.  An international driver’s license is not valid for more than 30 days after you take up residence in Florida. To get a Florida license, you must go to the Division of Driver’s License located at 100 Stumpfield Road (484-5015).  The hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. You will need to present your passport, visa, and I-94 card when you apply.  You will be required to take a written examination concerning driving laws and practices, and you may also be asked to drive your car while accompanied by a driver’s license examiner.  Before going to take the driver’s license exam, you should study the Florida Driver’s Handbook.  The booklet contains all the information needed to pass the written part of the test.  The Handbook is available at http://www.123driving.com/florida-driver-handbook.shtml.  A hard copy is available at the Division office. 

Getting Your First Drivers License in Florida

If you have never been issued a drivers license in any state or country, the state of Florida requires that you complete a First Time Driver education course.
Florida first time driver courses teach drivers how drugs and alcohol affect driving, traffic responsibilities and laws and techniques for safe driving.

Shortcuts to Florida DMV Approved First Time Driver courses

123Driving.com - Online first time driver course known as DATA

First Time Driver Course Names

Courses are commonly known as:

• DATA (drugs, alcohol, traffic, awareness)
• DATE (drugs, alcohol, traffic education)
• TLSAE (traffic law substance abuse education)

Adults who have never held a drivers license must take this course.
Florida Drivers Association - provides a DMV Approved First Time Driver Course online. All Florida Drivers Association traffic school courses are approved in all Florida counties.

The DMV Exam

Once you complete a first time driver course the State of Florida requires that you pass a written exam that tests your knowledge of road signs and road rules. The DMV exam is 40 questions. 20 of the questions test your knowledge of road signs and 20 questions test road rules.
Both the traffic schools listed above are approved by the state to offer the DMV exam online in combination with their first time driver course. You cannot take the DMV exam online stand alone - only in combination with the first time driver course.
Note: If you are 18 years old or older you cannot take the DMV exam online - you must take it at a DMV office.
To take the DMV exam at your local DMV office, you must produce a certificate of completion for a first time driver course (DATA course). You will get your certificate of completion from the school where you take your DATA course.
Note that HighSchooDriver.com has free practice tests for the DMV exam on both road signs and road rules..

Car Registration and Auto Insurance

Before registering your vehicle, you must obtain Florida Auto Insurance and have verification of the VIN number. The auto insurance must be purchased from an insurance company licensed by the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation. Florida's minimum coverage is $10,000 personal injury protection (PIP) and $10,000 property damage liability (PDL). If you have been involved in a crash, or been convicted of certain offenses, you may be required to purchase bodily injury liability coverage (BIL).

For additional information on the Department of Motor Vehicle in Escambia County, where Pensacola is located, please visit this site:  http://www.dmvflorida.org/escambia.shtml.

For additional information on car insurance, driving laws and safe driving tips please visit http://www.carinsurance.org/

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