Graduated Licenses
So, what's a graduated license?
Think of it like adolescence — the older you get, the more you're allowed
to do. With a graduated driver licensing system, beginning drivers have limited
driving privileges that extend to full privileges as drivers mature and develop
their skills.
The three stages to a graduated system are:
- Instructional Permit period
- Intermediate License (after the driver test is passed) limiting unsupervised driving
in high-risk situations
- Full Privileges license.
Drivers must stay in the first two stages for a set minimum time period, after which
they can earn a full privileges license.
Find out if your state has graduated licenses:
Remember: Each state has different rules regarding graduated
licenses. Please contact your state's department of motor vehicles to get the specifics
that apply to you.
Instructional Permit:
Minimum Age:
Duration:
Supervised driving:
Intermediate License:
Minimum Age:
Nighttime restriction:
Passenger restrictions:
Full License :
Minimum Age:
The lowdown on the stages
Here are some key things you should know about the specific stages of a graduated
license:
Instructional Permit stage:
- Six months minimum time period
- Must pass required written and vision tests
Intermediate stage:
- Six months minimum time period
- Night driving restrictions, such as late-night unsupervised driving and transporting
teenage passengers
- Instructional permit holders must have certification showing they have driven a
minimum number of supervised hours
- Must pass road test given by the department of motor vehicles
Full privileges license:
- Must complete the other two stages first
Some states have additional requirements, including seat belt use provisions and
penalty systems that allow for license suspension or extended holding periods if
violations occur.
Note: The info above is derived from the National Committee
on Uniform Traffic Laws and Ordinances model graduated licensing law. Each state
has specific requirements that apply only in that state. Please ensure you get the
proper graduated license information for the state that will issue your license.
