New Driver’s License for Teen Drivers Under 18

If you are applying for your first driver’s license through your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Motor Vehicle Division (MVD), Department of Public Safety (DPS), Motor Vehicle Agency (MVA), Department of Revenue (DOR), or Secretary of State (SOS) office, you’ll need to satisfy your state’s new driver requirements.

Whether your state has a graduated driver’s license (GDL) program or not, you can generally expect to be asked to:

• Complete a Driver’s Ed program
• Apply for a learner’s permit
• Obtain a provisional license
• Upgrade to your unrestricted driver’s license

Each phase you complete will help you gain the skills and knowledge necessary to pass the DMV written test and driving test required to get your unrestricted driver’s license.

In response to a high number of traffic accidents and deaths among teen drivers, most states have adopted GDL programs and young driver laws to help new teenage drivers gain valuable driving experience, develop safe, responsible driving habits, and avoid distracted driving situations.

Your state’s page will include information on its teen driving laws and the necessary identification documents, certification forms, and fees you will need when applying for your learner’s permit, provisional license, and full driver’s license.

Many states are now issuing and requiring compliance with the REAL ID. Soon you will be required to own one in order to fly within the US.  For more information see dhs.gov/real-id.

Learner’s Permit and Provisional License Restrictions

While each state Department of Revenue (DOR) has its own specific teen driver laws, your new driver’s license restrictions will likely include:

• Completing a classroom Driver’s Ed program
• Behind-the-wheel driving practice with a driving instructor
• Parental consent or sponsorship
• Passing the DMV written test
• Supervised driving with a licensed adult during a learner’s permit phase.
• Passing the DMV road test
• Unsupervised driving during a provisional license phase
• Restricted driving hours
• A limit on the number of passengers allowed in the vehicle
• Allowing only family members as passengers

Most states will require you to hold your leaner’s permit and provisional license for a minimum amount of time and reach a minimum age before moving on to the next phase of your new driver’s license.

By searching online, you will find various Driver’s Education courses.  Online or in-person options are available which will help prepare you to take the written/driving exam.  Many times after completing a Driver’s Ed course, you can receive a discount on your insurance in addition to building your confidence in being on the road.  Check to see that the course you select qualifies in meeting your state’s criteria.