Graduated Drivers License Changes

The Graduated Drivers License Changes For Drivers Under The Age of 18

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Graduated License Laws for Teen Drivers

These Laws apply for any Teen ages 16 and 17 that did not take a Drivers Education Course (MV-285).

  • Every passenger must be wearing a seatbelt regardless of age.
  • Teens can only drive unsupervised between the hours of 5am and 9pm unless for employment (must carry proof of employment) or a school course (no extracurricular activities, sporting events or social clubs).
  • No more than one passenger under the age of 21 in the vehicle unsupervised unless the members are of your immediate family.
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Parents Make a Big Difference When it Comes to Teen Driving

When parents understand the graduated license laws and enforce them, they instill responsibility and safety in teen drivers. Setting a good example by driving properly, especially when teens are in the car, will encourage safe driving habits.

Did you know…

  • 89% of teens say their parents are the most influential in encouraging safe driving.
  • Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of teen fatalities in the U.S.
  • Teens crash four times more often than any other age group.
  • Newly licensed teens are at the highest risk of getting into a fatal car crash within the first months of driving.
  • The first conviction of a cell phone use or texting violation will result in a suspension of the teens (16,17) driver license or permit for 120 days. A second conviction within six months of the license or permit (after the 120 suspension is finished) will be a revocation of at least one year for a drivers license or learners permit.
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Our Recommendations

Regardless of when the permit was issued, all junior permit holders (16,17) must wait 6 months and complete 50 hours of supervised driving (MV-272) prior to taking a road test. The only exception is if the individual turns 18 before the 6 months are up could they then take a road test.

We suggest that you hold off on taking the 5-Hour Course until at least 5 months into your 6 month waiting period. Here’s why:

  • The 5-Hour Certificate is only valid for one year from the issuance date, so why waste months of your certificate waiting for your 6 months to finish in order to take a road test?
  • You may have to wait weeks to take your road test after scheduling it. Due to high demand, we suggest scheduling your road test during the 5-Hour Course.
  • Some driving experience would be beneficial for building background knowledge prior to the 5-Hour Course.
  • Gigliotti’s strives to educate our students with the most current rules, laws and regulations that change frequently.