Florida HSMV Form 72870 Student Driving Eligibility Guide

Florida HSMV Form 72870 Student Driving Eligibility Guide – Florida law links school attendance directly to a minor’s ability to obtain or keep a driver’s license or learner’s permit. When a student under 18 accumulates too many unexcused absences, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) may suspend or withhold driving eligibility. The official document used to restore that eligibility is HSMV Form 72870, commonly called the Student Notification for Driving Eligibility for Licensure.

This comprehensive guide explains what Form 72870 is, who needs it, how to complete it correctly, where to submit it, and the exact requirements under Florida Statute 322.091. All information is based on current official sources from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles and Florida school districts.

What Is Florida HSMV Form 72870?

HSMV Form 72870 is the official “Notification to the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles – Student Compliance with Attendance Requirements for Reinstatement of Driving Privilege/Eligibility for Licensure.”

The form verifies that a student who previously received a Notice of Intent to Suspend or Withhold Eligibility for Licensure has returned to compliance with the attendance rules in section 322.091(1), Florida Statutes. Schools issue the completed form after the student demonstrates 30 consecutive school days of attendance with no unexcused absences.

You can download the current official version (revised 03/24) directly from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles:

Download Florida HSMV Form 72870 (PDF)

Who Needs HSMV Form 72870?

The form is required for Florida minors (typically ages 14–17) in the following situations:

  • Students whose learner’s permit or driver’s license has been suspended for non-compliance with school attendance requirements.
  • Unlicensed students who have been notified that eligibility for a learner’s permit or driver’s license is being withheld.
  • Students who need to prove they have met the 30 consecutive school days of attendance after being reported for 15 or more unexcused absences within a 90-calendar-day period.

Home-education students use a different form (HSMV 72871). Students who have already received a high school diploma, high school equivalency diploma (GED), special diploma, or certificate of high school completion may also use Form 72870 or present the diploma itself.

Florida Law: Attendance Requirements and Driving Privileges (Statute 322.091)

Under Florida Statute 322.091, a minor is not eligible for driving privileges unless the minor:

  • Is enrolled in a public school, nonpublic school, or home education program and satisfies relevant attendance requirements;
  • Has received a high school diploma, high school equivalency diploma, special diploma, or certificate of high school completion;
  • Is enrolled in a study course preparing for the high school equivalency examination and meets attendance rules;
  • Is enrolled in other educational activities approved by the district school board;
  • Has been issued a certificate of exemption; or
  • Has received a hardship waiver.

School districts are required by section 1003.27, Florida Statutes, to report students ages 14–17 who accumulate 15 or more unexcused absences in any 90-calendar-day period (or who drop out) to the FLHSMV. The department then issues a Notice of Intent to Suspend or Withhold Eligibility.

To regain eligibility, the student must generally complete 30 consecutive school days of full-day attendance with no unexcused absences. The 30-day count begins the first day after the last unexcused absence. Any new unexcused absence resets the count.

How to Complete Florida HSMV Form 72870

The form must be completed by an authorized school official. Students and parents cannot fill it out themselves. Required information includes:

  • Student’s full legal name (First, Middle, Last)
  • Mailing address
  • Driver license or control number (if applicable)
  • Gender
  • Date of birth
  • Social Security number
  • District name and district number
  • School name and school/institution number
  • Date of completion
  • Authorized signature of school official (must be notarized or have the school seal affixed)
  • Title of the person signing
  • Typed or printed name of the signer
  • Notary public information (if used) or school seal

Original signatures are required. Photocopies or electronic signatures are generally not accepted unless specifically authorized by the FLHSMV.

Important: The form is valid only for 30 calendar days from the date of completion. After that period, a new form must be issued.

How to Submit Form 72870 and Reinstate Driving Privileges?

There are two main ways to use the completed form:

  1. If the license or permit is already suspended: Present the original completed Form 72870 in person at a Florida driver license office or tax collector’s office that offers driver license services. A $45 reinstatement fee is required.
  2. Mail, fax, or email submission: You may also send the completed form to:
    DHSMV
    2900 Apalachee Parkway, MS #39
    Tallahassee, FL 32399-0570
    Fax: (850) 617-5095
    Email: [email protected]

For the most current office locations and hours, visit the official FLHSMV website: www.flhsmv.gov.

Common Questions About Form 72870

Can a high school diploma replace Form 72870?
Yes. A high school diploma, State of Florida high school diploma, special diploma, or certificate of high school completion can be used for reinstatement. Schools may still complete Form 72870 dated with the graduation date.

What if the student was reported in error?
If the student should never have been reported and more than 20 days have passed, the school can issue a status letter on official letterhead addressed to the DHSMV. The letter must include the principal’s (or designee’s) signature, the student’s name, date of birth, Social Security number (if available), and a clear statement that the student should not have been reported.

Is there a hardship waiver?
Yes. A licensed minor or the minor’s parent/guardian may request a hardship waiver hearing within 15 calendar days after receiving the Notice of Intent to Suspend. The hearing is held before the school principal or designee.

Does the form work for home education students?
No. Home education students use HSMV Form 72871.

Tips for a Smooth Reinstatement Process

  • Contact your school’s attendance office or guidance counselor as soon as you receive the Notice of Intent to Suspend. Ask about the exact process for obtaining Form 72870 in your district.
  • Keep perfect attendance for the full 30 consecutive school days. Even one unexcused absence restarts the clock.
  • Verify that the completed form has either a school seal or a proper notarization before leaving the school.
  • Submit the form promptly—remember the 30-calendar-day validity window.
  • Bring the $45 reinstatement fee (cash, check, or credit/debit as accepted by the local office) if presenting the form in person for a suspended license.

Official Resources and Further Reading

School district websites (for example, Broward, Lee, Volusia, St. Johns, and Manatee counties) also publish local procedures that align with the state form and statute. Always confirm details with your specific school or district attendance office, as local processes for issuing the form can vary slightly.

Conclusion

Florida HSMV Form 72870 is the essential document for restoring a minor’s driving eligibility after an attendance-related suspension or hold. By understanding the 30 consecutive school days requirement, completing the form correctly through your school, and submitting it within the 30-day validity period, students and families can efficiently regain the privilege to drive.

Download the official form today, maintain strong school attendance, and contact your school administration or the FLHSMV Truancy unit if you have questions about your specific situation.

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