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- Must hold learner’s license for at least one year (12 months) OR reach age 18, whichever comes first; A parent, legal guardian or responsible adult over 21 years old must complete the Certification of Minor Driving Experience Form, certifying the driver has 50 hours of.
- 52 rows The minimum age to obtain a restricted driver's license in the United States varies from 14.
- License Renewal For Senior Drivers. Oklahoma drivers who are 70 years of age or older at the time their current driver license expires are generally required to renew their license in person at a local DPS office. In addition to taking a vision test (see below), you may in certain situations be asked to take a written knowledge test as well.
- Drivers Age 79 or Older. In addition to the regular driver license renewal requirements, if you are 79 years of age or older you will be required to renew your driver license in-person at your local driver license office. During your renewal: You will be required to successfully.
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A domestic driving permit from Spain, in the format of the standardised European Driving Licence style
A driver's license is an official document, often plastic and the size of a credit card, permitting a specific individual to operate one or more types of motorized vehicles, such as a motorcycle, car, truck, or bus on a public road.
In most international agreements the wording driving permit is used, for instance in the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic.The term driver's license is American English; the Canadian English equivalent is driver's licence, the Australian and New Zealand English equivalent is driver licence and in many Commonwealth countries and Ireland it is driving licence. In this article, the American terminology and spelling is used generally but in country specific sections, the local spelling variant is used.
The laws relating to the licensing of drivers vary between jurisdictions. In some jurisdictions, a permit is issued after the recipient has passed a driving test, while in others, a person acquires their permit before beginning to drive. Different categories of permit often exist for different types of motor vehicles, particularly large trucks and passenger vehicles. The difficulty of the driving test varies considerably between jurisdictions, as do factors such as age and the required level of competence and practice.
Sep 19, 2012 ARKANSAS: Licenses are renewed every four years for all drivers, with no additional requirements for older drivers and no legislative attempts to add any. CALIFORNIA: Licenses are renewed every five years, and until age 70 drivers may automatically be granted two five-year renewals.
- 2Use for identification purposes
- 3Permits for different categories of vehicles
- 3.1Africa
- 3.2Asia
- 3.2.6Japan
- 3.3European Economic Area
- 3.4Rest of Europe
- 3.5North America
- 3.6Oceania
- 3.7South America
- 5International and interstate considerations
- 5.1Issues when moving permanently from one country or one state to another
History[edit]
The world's first permit to drive a motor vehicle, issued to Karl Benz upon his request
Karl Benz, inventor of the modern car, received a written 'Genehmigung' (permit) from the Grand Ducal authorities to operate his car on public roads in 1888 after residents complained about the noise and smell of his Motorwagen.[1] Up until the start of the 20th century, European authorities issued similar permits to drive motor vehicles ad hoc, if at all.[1]
Mandatory licensing for drivers came into force on 1 January 1904[2] after the Motor Car Act 1903 received royal assent in the United Kingdom. Every car owner had to register their vehicle with their local government authority and be able to prove registration of their vehicle on request. The minimum qualifying age was set at 17. The 'driving licence' gave its holder 'freedom of the road' with a maximum 20 mph (32 km/h) speed limit.[3] Compulsory testing was introduced in 1934, with the passing of the Road Traffic Act.[4]
Prussia, then a state within the German Empire, introduced compulsory licensing on 29 September 1903. A test on mechanical aptitude had to be passed and the Dampfkesselüberwachungsverein ('steam boiler supervision association') was charged with conducting these tests.[1] In 1910, the German imperial government mandated the licensing of drivers on a national scale, establishing a system of tests and driver's education requirements that was adopted in other countries.[1]
In 1909, the Convention with Respect to the International Circulation of Motor Vehicles[5] recognized the need for qualifications, examination, and authorization for international driving.
In 1929, the notion of an 'International Driving Permit' was first mooted in an international convention.[6]
Screenshot of Annex 6 of the 'Convention on Road Traffic' volume 125 of Geneva convention 1949
In 1949, the United Nations hosted another convention on road traffic that standardised rules on roads, occupants, rules, signs, driver's permits and such. It specified that national 'driving permits' should be pink and that an 'International Driving Permit' for driving in a number of countries should have 'grey' covers with white pages and that 'The entire last page shall be drawn up in French'.[7]
In 1968, the Convention on road traffic, ratified in 1977 and further updated in 2011, further modernised these agreements.[8]
Its main regulations about drivers permits are in Annex 6 (Domestic Driving Permit) and Annex 7 (International Driving Permit). The currently active version of those is in force in each contracting party no later than '29 March 2011' (Article 43).
Article 41 of the convention describes key requirements:
- every driver of a motor vehicle must hold appropriate documentation;
- 'driving permits' can be issued only after passing theoretical and practical exams, which are regulated by each country or jurisdiction;
- Contracting parties shall recognize as valid for driving in their territories:
- 'domestic driving permits' conforming to the provisions of Annex 6 to the convention;
- an 'International Driving Permit' conforming to the provisions of Annex 7 to the convention, on condition that it is presented with the corresponding domestic driving permit;
- 'domestic driving permits' issued by a contracting party shall be recognised in the territory of another contracting party until this territory becomes the place of normal residence of their holder;
- all of the above does not apply to learner-driver permits;
- the period of validity of an international driving permit shall be either no more than three years after the date of issue or until the date of expiry of the domestic driving permit, whichever is earlier;
- Contracting parties may refuse to recognize the validity of driving permits for persons under eighteen or, for categories C, D, CE and DE, under twenty-one;
- an international driving permit shall only be issued by the contracting party in whose territory the holder has their normal residence and that issued the domestic driving permit or that recognized the driving permit issued by another contracting party; it shall not be valid for use in that territory.
Other countries in Europe also introduced driving tests during the twentieth century, the last of them being Belgium where, until as recently as 1977, it was possible to purchase and hold a permit without having to undergo a driving test.[9]
As traffic-related fatalities soared in North America, public outcry provoked legislators to begin studying the French and German statutes as models.[10] On 1 August 1910, North America's first licensing law for motor vehicles went into effect in the U.S. state of New York, though it initially applied only to professional chauffeurs.[11] In July 1913, the state of New Jersey became the first to require all drivers to pass a mandatory examination before receiving a license.[12]
A driver's license for the moon presented to then NASA Administrator James E. Webb
Use for identification purposes[edit]
Many countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States, have no national identification cards. Since many people do have driving permits, they are often accepted as proof of identity. In some territories, non-drivers can apply for identification-only cards with a similar format to a driving permit. Most identity cards and driving permits are credit card size—the 'ID-1' size and shape defined in ISO/IEC 7810.
Asia[edit]
A Hong Kong Driving Licence carries the same number as the holder's ID card, but has no photograph. As such, it is not a legal document for proof of age for purchase of alcohol. Upon control, both must be presented. Plans to make the newly phased in Smart ID contain driver licensing information have been shelved.
Similarly, the Saudi Arabian government require all drivers to carry an ID card in addition to a driving permit and present them whenever requested. In Saudi Arabia using a permit instead is only permitted if the request is made for on-site inspection/identification purposes, especially at checkpoints. Expatriates may be requested to present their visas as well.
In Japan, South Korea, and Singapore, driving permit cards are widely used as identification.[13]
Europe[edit]
Many European countries require drivers to produce their permit on demand when driving. Some European countries require adults to carry proof of identity at all times, but a driving permit is not valid for identification in every European country.[14]
In the United Kingdom most drivers are not required to carry their 'Driving Licence'. A driver may be required by a constable or vehicle examiner to produce this, but may provide it at a specified police station within seven days;[15] the police issue a form for this purpose.[16]
In Denmark, Finland, Norway, Spain and Sweden, the driving permit number is listed along with the bearer's national identification number. Banks and public authorities use the same number for customer databases, making the permit fully useful for identification purposes.
North America[edit]
In Canada and the United States, driving permits are issued by the provinces (or territories) and states, respectively and do not look the same nationwide. They are also used as a de facto or government-issued identification document for the holder.
Most government issuers of driving permits also provide a government-issued identification card with similar attributes to those residents within their jurisdictions who do not have or maintain a valid driving permit, making it easier for them to do things such as open a bank account and perform any other activities that require official identification. Identification cards serve as government-issued photo ID but do not enable a person to operate a motor vehicle, a fact typically noted on the ID via the phrase 'Not a driver's licence' or similar wording. This type of photo ID is referred to as a Photo Card in some jurisdictions (for example, the Ontario Photo Card). Government-issued ID cards are also issued to out-of-state residents e.g. college students enrolled in an institution of higher education outside their state of residence e.g. a domiciled Texas resident enrolled at UCLA where the individual retains their Texas Driver License and holds a California state issued ID card (as mentioned above e.g. bank account and financial affairs); also applicable to those who own business assets and not domiciled in a state or city as a resident e.g. one domiciled in Los Angeles and owning either a business or real estate property in Florida). In the U.S. no individual is permitted to hold multiple valid driver licenses simultaneously.
Ontario now plans to follow Quebec in phasing out their 'enhanced driver's licence' so that the only remaining issuing authorities will become British Columbia and Manitoba. These driving permits enhanced with an RFID chip are accepted in lieu of passports for border crossings between the Canada and the US.[17]
In Canada, the acronym DLN (frequently found on work applications) refers to 'Driver's Licence Number' and, in the U.S., 'Drivers License Number.
South America[edit]
In Venezuela and the Dominican Republic, the driving permit number is the same as the citizen's ID number.
Permits for different categories of vehicles[edit]
In a number of countries (including the United States, New Zealand, Australia, UK, Ireland and sometimes Canada as well) people who drive commercially are required to have special permits. The cost of taking the series of tests and examinations to obtain these permits usually means that an employer would subsidize his or her drivers.
Africa[edit]
Egypt[edit]
Egyptian citizens are entitled to a driver's licence once they have reached the age of 18. To obtain their licences, applicants must pass a driving test as well as several computer tests.
In order to pass, all a person had to do was drive six metres forward and then reverse six metres. However, the test was updated to make it more difficult; now the applicant has to answer 8 out of 10 correct answers in a computer test, then pass a forward and reverse S-track test in addition to an assessment of parking skills.
Ghana[edit]
Driver's licensing in Ghana is conducted by the nation's Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority. The legal driving age is 18.
Kenya[edit]
The legal driving age is 18 years old. The permit must include:
- Id number
- Name
- Date of issue
- Class of vehicle
Morocco[edit]
The legal driving age of Moroccan citizens is 18.[citation needed]
Nigeria[edit]
In Nigeria, the minimum age to qualify for a drivers licence is 18. The applicant would first attend training at an accredited driving school. Then, the driving school will present the applicant to a Vehicle Inspection Officer (VIO) for a driving test. Upon passing the driving test the applicant would obtain a certificate of proficiency from the VIO. The applicant then completes a drivers license application form at the Drivers Licence Centre (DLC) or downloads the form online. Afterwards he pays a licence fee online or at the Bank and presents his application form to the Board of Internal Revenue (BIR) Officer and VIO at the DLC for endorsement. After all these procedures he goes to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Officer at the DLC for biometric data capture. He is given a temporary drivers licence which is valid for 60 days. He picks up the original drivers licence at the BIR Office after 60 days.
South Africa[edit]
The minimum driving age in South Africa is 17, when you may drive with an adult who holds a valid driving licence, after passing your learner's theory test. At 18, a driving licence can be obtained after passing the road test. Small motorcycles may be driven from the age of 16. To obtain a permit, applicants must pass a written or computer-based test to obtain a learner's licence, and then pass a road test to obtain the driving license. Categories for permits include CODE B (normal vehicles), CODE C1 (LDV), CODE EC (heavy trucks), CODE A (motorcycle).The learners licence theory test will contain three sets of questions with multiple answer options; you will have to select the correct answer. Some Driving Licence Test Centres use computers for the test, whereas others require you to complete the test using a test paper and pen.[citation needed]
Tanzania[edit]
Driving licences are issued by the Tanzania Revenue Authority. The legal driving age for motorcycles is 16 and for other motor vehicles is 18.[18]
Zimbabwe[edit]
Zimbabwean drivers licenses are issued by the Vehicle Inspection Department (VID) which is an arm of the government under the Ministry of Transport & Infrastructural Development.[19] Drivers can be licensed for class 4 vehicles at the age of sixteen and eighteen for class 2 vehicles. Public transport vehicles are in class 1 and the minimum age is twenty five. A theory based learners license which has 25 questions is the first step. The questions for this test include diagrams, road rules and road signs and has to be answered in under eight minutes. After passing the test, the candidate gets a provisional learners license which enables the candidate to drive under supervision from a driving instructor or anyone with a full driving license.
Vehicle Class[20] | Type of Vehicles | Description | Minimum Age | Minimum Test score |
---|---|---|---|---|
Class 1 | Buses | Public service vehicles (for passenger transport) | 25 | 100% |
Class 2 | Trucks | Heavy vehicles vehicles with net mass above 2300kg | 18 | 100% |
Class 3 | Motorcycles | Motorcycles | 16 | 88% |
Class 4 | Cars | Light motor vehicles under 2300kg net mass | 16 | 88% |
Class 5 | Tractors/Earth moving equipment | Farm and construction vehicles | 16 | 88% |
After the theory test learner drivers have to start practical driving lessons covering key driving skills. To qualify for a driving test one must have completed thirty lessons.
Skills tested in the driving test include:
Skill | Description | Skill being tested |
---|---|---|
Hill Start | starting vehicle on an upward incline and proceeding without rolling backwards | clutch control |
Three Point Turn | turning a vehicle around to face the opposite direction in a limited space | use of gears, mirrors and vehicle control |
Parallel Parking | parking a vehicle parallel to the road in line with other parked vehicles | maneuvering around other vehicles, reversing and clutch control |
Reversing | commonly known as drums because candidates have to successfully reverse through a set of drums without bumping into any - an immediate fail | vehicle control in reverse and clutch control |
City Driving | driving through urban roads, route planning and avoidance of busy roads and intersections | observing road rules and signs attention to hazards. Special attention to pedestrians and cyclists. Paying attention to actions of other road users |
Asia[edit]
Azerbaijan[edit]
Hong Kong[edit]
Hong Kong has a minimum age of 16 for mopeds under 50 cc (3.1 cu in) and 18 for motorcycles producing more than 50 cc (3.1 cu in). Minimum age for holding a driving permit is 18 for cars and 21 for commercial vehicles[citation needed].
Drivers are legally obliged to carry a valid driving licence whilst driving and this must be produced if required to do so by a police officer.[citation needed]
People older than 70 have to undergo strict medical tests in order to obtain a permit that has limited validity and requires renewal after a certain period.
India[edit]
The minimum driving age in India is 16 for mopeds under 50 cc (3.1 cu in), and 18 for cars and motorcycles of more than 50 cc (3.1 cu in).[22] The Regional Transport Office (RTO/RTA) issue their own driving licences in various states. Drivers are legally obliged to carry a valid driving permit in India whilst driving, and it must be produced if required to do so by a police officer.
In India, people aged 50 or more, have to undergo strict medical tests in order to obtain a permit that has limited validity and requires renewal every five years. A Commercial Driving Licence is valid for 3 years and then requires to be renewed.
Indonesia[edit]
Front side of the Indonesian Driving License card 'A' class for driving normal 4 wheel car/jeep vehicle
Rear/back side of the Indonesian driving license card
In Indonesia, to drive a motor vehicle, one must own a legal Indonesian Driving License which is called (Surat Izin Mengemudi) or SIM in Indonesian. It is a card which legally permits one to drive a motor vehicle. In Indonesia, there are classes for each driving license for which is allowed to drive a type of motor vehicle:
- A – to drive private passenger or cargo vehicle with weight allowed not exceeding 3,500 kg (7,700 lb)
- A Public (A UMUM) - to drive commercial vehicles and goods carrier to the amount of weight that is allowed does not exceed 3,500 kg (7,700 lb)
- B1 – to drive private passenger or cargo vehicle with weight allowed exceeding 3,500 kg (7,700 lb)
- B1 Public (B1 UMUM) - to drive passenger vehicles and general freight allowed amount of weight over 3,500 kg (7,700 lb)
- B2 - to drive heavy equipment vehicles, towing vehicles, or motor vehicles with attractive patch or trailer train individuals with severe or patches are allowed to train more than 1,000 kg (2,200 lb) trailer/s
- B2 Public (B2 UMUM) - to drive commercial vehicles for towing or pull cart trailer with heavy patch that are allowed to train more than 1,000 kg trailer
- C – to drive motorcycles (two-wheeled motor vehicle)
- D – special vehicle for disabled person
The classes above are also allowed by the age of the driver according to the class of the driving license. The ages are accordingly issued to the different classes of the driver's choice:
- 17 years old for issue of Driving License class: A, C, and D
- 20 years old for issue of Driving License class: B1
- 21 years old for issue of Driving License class: B2
Israel[edit]
Japan[edit]
Japanese driver's licenses bear one of the following 3 colors on the expiration date.
Green[edit]
- New Drivers (first license in Japan) is valid for 2 to 3 years. Drivers with under one year of driving experience are required to display a 'Shoshinsha mark' (Young Leaf Mark) on their vehicle. This holds true if the driver acquires a license for a different class of vehicle, regardless of the length of driving experience on their previous license. However, such a mark does not indicate necessarily the color on the driver's license. A driver with a young leaf mark on their car could very well be a gold driver. This is because the gold status does not disappear with a change in vehicle class.
Blue[edit]
- Drivers who have fewer than 5 years of clean driving history or who do not have a clean driving record but more than 5 years of driving history. Valid for 3 to 5 years depending on age, violation history, etc.
Gold[edit]
- In addition to the regular license, the Gold Driver's License (ゴールド免許Gōrudo Menkyo), or Superior Drivers License (優良運転者免許証Yūryō Untensha Menkyoshō), is a special designation of license given to 'superior drivers' (優良運転者) in Japan. Holders of such licenses can be identified by the gold band printed over the expiration date of their driver's license.
Superior Driver's License, (Gold License)
The Gold License is granted to any driver who, at the point of license renewal, has at least five years of clean driving history (no driving infractions).[23][24] According to implications in the Road Traffic Laws Reforms that took place on May 10, 1995, all such licenses are marked with a gold band over the license's expiration date as well as the word 優良 (excellent) printed in black, below.
Those who hold a gold license have the added benefit of qualifying for the Superior Drivers Course at the time of renewal, a significantly shorter and less-expensive renewal process. In some cases, they can bypass the main license center and have their license renewed at a separate Superior Drivers License Renewal Center.[25]
Moreover, because such license holders are proven to have been free of accidents and moving violations for at least five years, they are deemed low-risk and qualify for optional car insurance discounts. To qualify, drivers must be accident and violation-free for 5 years and 41 days prior to their birthday on their license's expiration. The period in which the license holder's driving history is reviewed begins on the 40th day prior to their birthday of that year. Should the license holder be deemed to qualify, they will receive a decision in the mail with the word 優良 printed on it.
Even the so-called 'Paper Drivers' who hold licenses but never drive, who technically are without violation or accident, can lose their eligibility to obtain a gold license for several reasons including if their car is used by a drunk driver or to support drunk driving in any way.
Lebanon[edit]
Malaysia[edit]
The front side of a typical Malaysian driving licence.
The minimum age for obtaining a driving licence varies between 16 and 21, although there is a concern about teenage driving safety.[26]
As of November 2011, drivers can renew their licence on their birthday, rather than expiry date.[27]
Pakistan[edit]
The minimum age for eligibility for a learner's permit is 18 years. Drivers' information is recorded against the Computerized National ID Card number which is issued at the age of 18. The Licence Issuing Authorities vary in each district and work under the relevant District Police.
A new credit card format driving licence has been introduced. The licence bears the digital photo, signature and blood group information of the card holder. A record of traffic violations is stored automatically in the database. To obtain a driving licence one must register for a learner's permit at any of the local District Police's designated licence offices and then, after 42 days, one can apply for test for a regular full licence.
The test phase consists of a theory based test followed by a short practical test. Only those who pass the theory test are allowed to take the practical test. The whole test stage is a single day process where both tests are to be taken the same day. The driving licence currently issued holds basic information of the driver including name, Father's name, date of birth, address, authorized vehicle types, emergency contact, blood group, fingerprint impression, driver photo. The licence also has a magnetic strip though its viability is yet to be made public.
Singapore[edit]
Driving licences in Singapore are issued by the traffic police. The minimum age to obtain a provisional driving licence (PDL), which allows the holder to practice driving while under the supervision of an authorised driving instructor, is 18. A provisional driving licence is obtained once the individual has passed the basic theory test. PDL holders are then required to sit for and pass the final theory test before they are allowed to sit for the practical driving test. Once they have passed the practical driving test, they are issued with a driving licence which allows for driving without supervision, though new drivers are required to display probationary plates when driving for the first year after their licence is issued.
South Korea[edit]
In South Korea, one must be holding a driving license called '운전면허증' or an international driving license. The International driving license is valid for 1 years starting from the date of entry. If one is going to stay in South Korea longer than a year, it is necessary to change the international license to a local license by visiting the police office or driving license testing center.
For South Korean driving license, there are classes for each driving license for which is allowed to drive a type of motor vehicle:
- Type 1 (1종) – Commercial Vehicles
- Large (대형) – A license which allows one to drive every vehicle except trailers and wreckers. It allows one to drive cargo truck, passenger bus, construction equipment for commercial purposes.
- Normal (보통) – Allows one to drive a vehicle with less than 15 seats, an emergency motor vehicle with less than 12 seats, a cargo truck with a load limit of 12 tonnes, a construction equipment which weighs less than 3 tonnes (doesn't include trailers and wreckers), a special motor vehicle which weighs less than 10 tonnes (doesn't include trailers and wreckers).
- Small (소형) (No longer valid) – Allows one to drive a vehicle with three wheels and a motorcycle.
- Type 2 (2종) – Non-Commercial Vehicles
- Normal (보통) – Allows one to drive a vehicle with less than 10 seats, a cargo truck with a load limit of 4 tonnes, a special motor vehicle which weighs less than 3.5 tonnes (doesn't include trailers and wreckers).
- Small (소형) – Allows one to drive a motorcycle.
- Practice License
- Type 1 (1종) – Allows one to drive a vehicle with less than 15 seats, a cargo truck with a load limit of 12 tonnes, when the driver is driving with somebody with a licens which isn't a practice license.
- Type 2 (2종) – Allows one to drive a vehicle with less than 10 seats, a cargo truck with a load limit of 4 tonnes, when the driver is driving with somebody with a license which isn't a practice license.
Besides the type of the license, the license may have a special condition. Depending on the special condition given, the driver must satisfy the condition below to be able to drive. Driving a vehicle without satisfying the given condition is considered as unlicensed driving.
- A – Automatic Transmission Only
- B – Drive with prosthetic hand or arm
- C – Drive with prosthetic leg
- D – Wear hearing aid when driving
- E – Drive with Hearing-Impaired Sign + Convex Mirror
- I – Drive a car with a gas pedal located in the left.
Sri Lanka[edit]
New E-Smart Card driving licenses are available in Sri Lanka. These cards are intended for the use in the proposed 'Point System'.
In Sri Lanka, a driving license is the official document which authorizes its holder to operate various types of motor vehicles on public roads. They are administered by the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT). The minimum age is 18 years for all vehicle types.
Thailand[edit]
Driving in Thailand without a driver's license is prohibited and is punishable by fines. Moreover, in case of a road accident, a driver without a license can be considered as the guilty party. Also, an unlicensed driver who was in road accident will be refused medical insurance payment
It isn't difficult to receive a driver's license in Thailand. In fact, it is accessible to foreigners too. When the package of documents will be collected person need to appeal to the Transport Authority and sign up for the exam. Waiting time usually is near one month.
The exam includes theoretical and practical parts held on the same day. Reaction's tests are conducted before the exam. The complainant gets a temporary ID valid for one year. It may be extended for five years, but only if the complainant lives in Thailand on non-immigrant visa. An International driver's license is recognized in Thailand. With its help it is easy to get a license without doing the exams.
There are different plastic cards for motorcycles and vehicles. Therefore, documents and exams need to be done twice.[28]
Privileges of driver's license holder:
- A driver's license can be used as ID.
- Discounts (up to five-fold discounts) for sightseeing, museums, etc. can be obtained by the license.
- Thai (5-years extended) license is valid in the following countries: Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Brunei, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Philippines.
- International driver's license (5-years validity) can be obtained on the basis of 5-years Thai license.
Vietnam[edit]
In Vietnam, to drive a vehicle, one must own a legal Vietnamese Driving License which is called 'bằng lái'. It is a card which legally permits one to drive a motor vehicle. In Vietnam, there are classes for each driving license for which is allowed to drive a type of motor vehicle:
- A – to drive private passenger or cargo vehicle with weight allowed exceeding 3,500 kg (7,700 lb).
- B1 – to drive private passenger or cargo vehicle with weight allowed not exceeding 3,500 kg (7,700 lb). B1 is issued to drivers who are younger than 21 years old. B1 license is valid for 5 years.
- B2 - to drive private passenger or cargo vehicle with weight allowed not exceeding 3,500 kg (7,700 lb). B2 license is identical to B1 license but issued for drivers who are 21 years old or older. B2 license is valid for 10 years.
- C – to drive motorcycles (two-wheeled motor vehicle)
- D – special vehicle for disabled person
The classes above are also allowed by the age of the driver according to the class of the driving license. The ages are accordingly issued to the different classes of the driver's choice:
- 17 years old for issue of Driving License class: A, C
- 20 years old or younger for issue of Driving License class : B1
- 21 years old for issue of Driving License class: B2
European Economic Area[edit]
Driving permits within the European Union are subdivided into different categories.
The European Union has adopted a common format for driving permits within all 31 European Economic Area member states (EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway), and a common set of driving permit categories. They were introduced to replace the 110 different plastic and paper driving permits. The common format with the same information in the same place on all permits allows documents to be understood, even if they are in a different language.
The system for handling the penalty points remains different in each country, for the existence of points, initial number of points, revolving, and number of points removed (or added) for each penalty.
Austria[edit]
Belgium[edit]
Bulgaria[edit]
Croatia[edit]
Cyprus[edit]
Denmark[edit]
Finland[edit]
France[edit]
Germany[edit]
Greece[edit]
Iceland[edit]
The minimum age for getting a driver's license in Iceland is 17 for a B class license, a B class license will qualify a person to drive low powered motorcycles (50 cc (3.1 cu in) two stroke or equivalent, for more powerful bikes one will have to obtain an A class license), Tractors, ATVs and automobiles that do not exceed a GVWR of 3,500 kg (7,700 lb) or 8 passengers.
The minimum age in Iceland to get a C1 class (vehicles up to 7,500 kg (16,500 lb) GVWR) is 18, for a C class (vehicles exceeding 7,500 kg) one will have to have obtained a 12-point license (obtainable without getting a ticket for a whole year) and have reached the age of 21 years.
The minimum age in Iceland for a D1 class license is 21 years old and D class (and DE class) license is 23 years old, the same rules apply as with a C/CE class license.
Ireland[edit]
Italy[edit]
The Netherlands[edit]
Norway[edit]
The minimum age for getting a driver's license in Norway is 16 for A1, T (tractor), 18 for A-C1, 21 for C/D1 and 24 for D. The driver's licenses issued before 2013 are revoked when he/she has reached an age of 100. The driver's licenses for A-B, BE, S and T issued after 2013 are always revoked after 15 years, and can be renewed after that for more 15 years. For persons aged 60–75, the driver's license revokes before his/her 75th birthday, and after that, he/she needs a valid health certificate. Then a driver's license is issued with the length of the health certificate. The driver's licenses for C-D1E are revoked after 5 years, and can be renewed after that for more 5 years, and with a valid health certificate, new license for C-D1E is issued every year after he/she has reached an age of 70.
Poland[edit]
Romania[edit]
The minimum age for obtaining a driver's license in Romania is 18 ('Minimum legal age in Romania')
Spain[edit]
Sweden[edit]
United Kingdom[edit]
The minimum driving age in the United Kingdom is 16 for mopeds under 50 cc (3.1 cu in), and 17 for cars and motorcycles. Access to motorcycles producing more than 25 kW (34 hp) is restricted to riders with two years experience or aged 21.[29] The British Overseas Territories and the British Crown dependencies issue their own driving licences. There is no legal requirement for a non-professional driver to carry a driving licence in the UK whilst driving, although it must be produced at a police station within seven days, if required to do so by a police officer.[30]
In the United Kingdom, one must hold a Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) Licence to drive a vehicle with more than eight passenger seats for hire or reward, or a Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) Licence to drive a vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Weight (Maximum Authorized Mass) in excess of 3,500 kg (7,700 lb). Licences and Driver Certificate of Professional Competence qualification cards must be carried whilst driving vehicles in such categories. Special licences are also required in order to transport hazardous materials.
Rest of Europe[edit]
Albania[edit]
North Macedonia[edit]
Russia[edit]
Driving license, 2014
Russia was one of the first countries to create a driving licence. Russia's first licences were issued in 1900 by Saint Petersburg authorities, and Russia joined an international convention in 1909[citation needed]. However, due to a relatively small number of cars, the attempts to create a standardized Russian licence were rather sporadic and limited to major urban areas. No comprehensive system of driver licensing was present until 1936, when the Soviet government organized and standardized traffic and driving regulations, with the statewide system regulated by specialized police authorities.
Russia employs a system of driver's licences very similar to the EU standard. Since 2014 there are 14 main categories that require a driving licence: A, A1, B, B1, C, C1, D, D1, BE, CE, C1E, DE, D1E, M[31] and two additional categories: Tm (tram) and Tb (trolleybus).
The current licence style, introduced in 2011, is a laminated plastic card similar to the European driving licence card in dimensions and outward appearance, with the bearer's photo and name (in Latin and Cyrillic scripts), place/date of issue, allowed categories, and signature. The reverse of the card features a detailed list of allowed categories. This new style is fully compliant with the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, and therefore is acceptable in all its signatory states and countries. Older credit-card-style and booklet-style licenses are also occasionally seen although they are no longer issued and are increasingly rare as a result. The Russian driving licence is also sometimes supplemented by a special card called 'временное разрешение' (temporary permission), which serves for registering offense points and as a temporary licence if the primary license has been seized by the authorities for serious traffic offenses.[32] This supplement has been abolished and reinstated a countless number of times as the views of the traffic police change.
The legal driving age within the Russian Federation is 18 years (16 for motorcycles (A1 and M categories only, not A) and 20 for buses)[33] and to obtain a license one must be physically fit to drive (including certificates of mental fitness and no record of substance abuse). One must also pass a test administered at a local traffic police authority and pay a fee. Tests are divided into theory and practice. The theory test is usually a computerized multiple-choice test on various traffic rules. Twenty multiple-choice questions are asked, only two incorrect answers allowed for a passing grade.[34] A road test is then administered which includes a demonstration of basic driving skills (steering, slope starting for manual transmission vehicles and backing-up), obstacle course as well as a skills examination for road driving. Four minor errors are allowed for the road driving examination—the obstacle course is pass-fail. The number of retries is unlimited.
Driver's licences are issued by subdivisions of the General Administration for Traffic Safety of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and grant the right to drive on-road vehicles only. The right to drive off-road vehicles is granted by tractorist-machinist's license[2], which is issued by state inspections of the supervision of the technical condition of self-propelled machines and other machinery [3] (these state inspections are parts of the regional governments of federal subjects of Russia and may have different names). The Ministry of Agriculture approves the form of the license and the procedure for issuing it. There are 9 categories in tractorist-machinist's license: AI (quad bikes, snowmobiles and other off-road vehicles with steering that is similar to motorcycle's steering), AII (wheeled cross-country vehicles weighing less than 3,500 kg, including amphibious snow-and-swamp vehicles such as TREKOL-39294, VIKING-29031, etc.), AIII (haul trucks), AIV (off-road buses), B (wheeled and caterpillar tractors with engine power less than 25,7 kW), C (wheeled tractors with engine power from 25,7 kW to 110,3 kW), D (wheeled tractors with engine power over 110,3 kW), E (caterpillar tractors with engine power over 25,7 kW), F (self-propelled agricultural machinery). To obtain the tractorist-machinist's license with AII category applicant must have at least 1-year driving experience by category B of driver's license, AIII category - category C of driver's license, AIV category - category D of driver's license. For getting the tractorist-machinist's license applicant has to pass theoretical and practice exam on the program approved by the Ministry of Agriculture. If applicant doesn't have the driver's license he also has to pass theoretical exam on the program approved by the General Administration for Traffic Safety of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (knowledge of traffic rules). In the case of deprivation of driving licence by court decision, both licences are lost.
Switzerland[edit]
Even though Switzerland is a EFTA member state, it is not a member of the European Economic Area. Switzerland has, however, generally adopted much of the harmonized EU legislation with regard to driving licenses. Swiss licenses can be exchanged in most EEA countries. Switzerland has, since the 2000s, used the EU system of vehicle categories and issued EEA-style credit-card licenses.
To apply for a car driving license (category B), the applicant must be 18 years old. They must first attend first aid courses, and pass an eyesight test. Passing a theory exam is required to receive a learner's permit valid for two years. This allows holders to drive a car only if accompanied by an adult aged 23 or more who has had a full driving license for a minimum of three years. Before passing the practical exam, the candidate must attend 10 hours of theory lessons on 'sensibilization (familiarization) to road traffic'. Practical driving lessons are not legally required, but are considered a de facto prerequisite for passing the practical exam taken with a government official Driving Test Examiner. Upon succeeding the practical exam, a probationary driving license is issued for three years. To obtain the full, unlimited, driving license after these three years, the candidate must not commit a serious traffic offense, and attend two days of further driving training.
For motorcycles and heavier vehicles, the regulations are different, and some agrarian vehicles can be driven without a license. As of 2011, a 45-minute driving lesson costs around CHF 90, while the various fees and theoretical instruction costs associated with getting a car driving license can amount to up to CHF 600, without counting the costs for the two days of further training.
The theoretical exam must be taken in either German, French or Italian. In some cantons it is possible to take it in English.
Turkey[edit]
Turkey has been an associate member since 1963, and application to accede to the European Economic Community, the predecessor of the European Union (EU), was made on 14 April 1987.[35] Turkey signed a Customs Union agreement with the EU in 1995 and was officially recognized as a candidate for full membership on 12 December 1999, at the Helsinki summit of the European Council.
On 1 January 2016 new Turkish laws concerning driving licenses were implemented.[36][37] The changes are intended to bring Turkey more in line with existing EU driving regulations and concern all road users in Turkey. A foreign national can drive in Turkey with an EU license for 6 months. After 6 months he/she has to change it to a Turkish license. Application can be made to any Traffic Registration office, and the foreign driving licences will not be returned to holders. Instead they will be sent to the issuing authority of the country of origin i.e. for British nationals, DVLA. The DVLA says that expats can drive in the UK on a Turkish license for up to 12 months, and if they wish to settle back in the UK, the Turkish license can be exchanged for a UK license.[36]
In Turkey you must be at least 18 years old in order to drive a car and at least 17 to drive a motorbike. The driving test comprises a practical and theory test, which has been recently made tougher in order to meet European Union regulations.[38]
North America[edit]
Barbados[edit]
In Barbados, a person 16 years or over can apply for a Learner's Permit which allows them to drive for a specified period with an accompanying tutor. During that period they will be tested on their driving skill and their knowledge of road signs and traffic laws. On passing both the written and driving test the license is issued. Once issued a driver's license is valid for a period of one to five years depending on which period of time the driver chooses to pay for. On the expiry of the period for which the license is issued, it will become renewable on the last day of the driver's birth month and will again be valid for the time period for which payment is made. Visitors and non-nationals who are the holders of a valid driver's license issued in their country of residence or origin are not allowed to drive automatically in Barbados but must go to a police station to have a temporary local driver's license issued. The license is issued on payment of a fee and the production of the visitor's existing license.
Canada[edit]
The age to obtain a Driver's Licence/permis de conduire in Canada varies by province, as do the necessary procedures. The minimum age for obtaining a permit to drive unaccompanied in most provinces is 16.[citation needed]
Costa Rica[edit]
Every vehicle driver must carry a Licencia de Conducir, which is issued by COSEVI (Consejo de Seguridad Vial) of the ministry of transport and public infrastructure (Ministerio de Obras Públicas y Transporte).
For this permit to be granted there are three needed tests, practical driving (includes driving a car in simulated streets), theoretical driving (a multiple selection written test based on booklet issued by the education department or after taking a special course), and finally a medical test performed by a medical practitioner that tests eyesight, blood pressure and attests the presence of other diseases and behavior of the driver.
Every citizen can solicit a driver's license at age 18, after being issued the first time, the license must be renewed after two years, and every successive occasion after five years.[39] Foreigners may also obtain a drivers' license if they have residency.
Besides this document the driver must carry the national identity card (Cédula de Identidad), however both documents use the same identification number, the national identity card being the basis of the driver's license number.
El Salvador[edit]
All driver's licenses are given by the government agency SERTRACEN (Servicios de Tránsito Centroamericanos S.A. de C.V.).
Florida Driver License Age Limit
One needs a minimum of 15 years to receive a driver's license (a juvenile license).[40] To get a new license, one needs to pass a vision test, a written test, and a driving test. These tests are given at accredited driving schools. Foreigners with a license from another country can obtain an El Salvador license if they have residency. They will also have to pass a vision test.[41] The driver's license number is the same as the person's Tax ID number.
El Salvador licenses (as well as vehicle circulation cards) contain a chip which can be read by putting the card in a chip reader.
There are several categories of drivers' licenses in El Salvador:[42]
- Juvenil Particular—License for minors, allowing them to drive cars and pickup trucks
- Motociclista—Motorcycle license
- Particular—License for adults, for cars, vans up to 17 passengers, and pickup trucks.
- Liviana—Taxis, Light trucks up to 5 tons, and buses up to 30 passengers.
- Pesada—Buses greater than 30 passengers, and trucks greater than 5 tons.
- Pesada T—Trucks with more than 3 axles.
Jamaica[edit]
A Learner's Permit can be obtained at age 17. After passing both a written and practical test a full 'Driver's Licence' can be obtained which will expire on the holder's fifth birthday after the date of issue.[43]
Mexico[edit]
In Mexico the issue of a licencia para conducir is regulated by each state, and they all have different rules and requirements. However, all state issued driving permits are recognized across Mexico, and International Driving Permits (IDP) are also recognized.
A driver is allowed a learner's permit at the age of 15 (in some states), with a fee of approximately 100 US dollars, a year's validity, and a requirement to drive with an adult at all times. At the age of 16, the fee drops to about 30 US dollars, and a driving permit is issued with some usage restrictions, depending on the state, such as a curfew. When a driver turns 18, he or she is allowed a full permit.
Trinidad and Tobago[edit]
In Trinidad and Tobago, a Learner's Permit can be obtained from age 17. Driver's Permits are issued by the Licensing Authority, which is governed by the Ministry of Works and Transport. In order to legally operate any motor vehicle in Trinidad and Tobago, whether it is on or off public-owned-roads, the operator of the motor vehicle must be in possession of a valid Driver's Permit on their person and is legally endorsed for that class of vehicle. Contravening this provision could warrant a fine of up to TT$1,500 and imprisonment.[citation needed]
United States[edit]
The Florida driving permit and ID card issued since May 2019, displays small digits next to each data field. This is required by the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators’ design standard and has been adopted by many US states
Age requirements to receive a restricted driving permit by US state 14 years and 3 months
15 years and 6 months
16 years and 3-4 months
17 years
The eligible age to first obtain a driver's license varies substantially from state to state, from 14 years, three months, in South Dakota to 17 in New Jersey. In a majority of states one can obtain a license that allows driving without adult supervision by age 16, after passing the requisite tests. Since the driver's license is a commonplace document that carries much of the necessary information needed for identification, it has become the primary method of identification in the United States.[44]
In the United States, a holder of a driver's license is typically legally allowed to operate a motor vehicle up to 26,000 pounds if no hazardous materials and no more than 16 persons (driver included) are in the vehicle.Most jurisdictions that grant driver's licenses only permit the holder to operate a roadworthy vehicle consisting of four or more wheels. To operate a two-wheel motorized vehicle with a sustainable speed greater than 30 mph (48 km/h) requires an endorsement on the license, typically after successful completion of a theory (written) and practical test.
On the federal level, motor vehicles with a curb weight of GCWR of 26,001 lb (11,794 kg) or more, a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers (driver included), or a vehicle transporting hazardous materials can only be driven by an operator carrying a Commercial Driver License (Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986). Upon successful completion of theory and practical testing, endorsements can be applied to a CDL to allow legal transport of specialty types of goods:
- T Semi trailer Double or Triple (written test)
- Certain states, such as California,[45] Florida,[46] Michigan,[47] and New York[48] prohibit triple trailers statewide.
- A Class A license is required to obtain the T endorsement.
- P Passenger Vehicle (written and driving tests)
- S School Bus (written and driving test, background check, sex offender registry check, and P endorsement)
- N Tank Truck (written test)
- H Hazardous materials (written test and background check through the Transportation Security Administration)
- X Combination of Tank Vehicle and Hazardous Materials (written test)
- W Tow truck. (written test)
- M Motorcycle License (written and practical test)
Various state statutes also mandate that a CDL must be held to operate vehicles not covered by federal statutes.
Oceania[edit]
Australia[edit]
The minimum driving age varies between 16 and 18 years of age in different States and Territories. After the minimum age, a graduated licensing scheme operates, with state variations.
Cook Islands[edit]
A Cook Islands 'License to Drive a Motor Vehicle'is issued at police headquarters in Avarua on the main island of Rarotonga, on production of a valid permit from the visitor's home country. To use a scooter or motor cycle (the main hire vehicles for tourists) a short test has to be taken by anyone whose home permit is only valid for cars, in which a police officer observes the applicant riding up and down the main street of the capital.
New Zealand[edit]
There are three different types of 'Driver Licence' in New Zealand: learners (blue), restricted (orange) and full (green). Learner licences allow the person to drive, with a wide number of restrictions.[49] Restricted licences allow driving alone between the hours of 5am to 10pm, and require the person to be at least 16 years 6 months old. Restricted licence drivers who passed their practical test in a vehicle with an automatic transmission are not allowed to drive vehicles with manual transmission until they have their full licence.[50] Full licences are restricted to those 18 and over, or 17 years 6 months old if an approved advanced driving course has been successfully completed.[51]
There are six different classes of vehicle that are licensed:[52]
Class Number | Vehicle | Requirements for learner licence | Requirements for restricted licence | Requirements for full licence |
---|---|---|---|---|
Class 1 | Car | Must be 16 years or over | Must be 16 years 6 months old or over, must have learner licence for at least 6 months | Must be 17 years 6 months old or over. Must have restricted licence for at least 12 months if completed a valid defensive driving course or 18 months without. |
Class 2 | Medium rigid vehicle | Hold a full 'Class 1 Licence' for at least 6 months and pass a theory test[53] | N/A | 6 months on the 'Class 2 Learner Licence' plus a practical test, or immediately upon passing an approved course |
Class 3 | Medium combination vehicle | Hold a full 'Class 2 Licence' for at least 6 months (under 25) or 3 months (25 and over) then pass a theory test | N/A | 6 months on the 'Class 3 Learner Licence' plus a practical test, or immediately upon passing an approved course |
Class 4 | Heavy rigid vehicle | Hold a full 'Class 2 Licence' for at least 6 months (under 25) or 3 months (25 and over). No theory test required. Apply and pay the required fee | N/A | 6 months on the 'Class 4 Learner Licence' plus a practical test, or immediately upon passing an approved course |
Class 5 | Heavy combination vehicle | Hold a full 'Class 4 Licence' for at least 6 months (under 25) and pass a theory test | N/A | 6 months on the 'Class 5 Learner Licence' plus a practical test, or immediately upon passing an approved course |
Class 6 | Motorcycle | Must be 16 years or over | Must be 16 years 6 months old or over, must have learner licence for at least 6 months | Must be 18 or over and have had a restricted licence for 18 months or must be 17 years 6 months old or over and have had a restricted licence for 12 months if an approved advanced driving course is completed |
There are also different and separate endorsements, that can allow full licence holders of different classes to carry passengers for commercial use (e.g. buses, taxis, Uber) or specialist equipment (e.g. Forklifts, Excavators)
South America[edit]
Brazil[edit]
Peru[edit]
The minimum age for a driving license is 18 years old. It is obtained via a test in a car, a computer and the applicant must present a vision test which says they are permitted to drive
Venezuela[edit]
In Venezuela there are four categories of driving licenses:
Seconde Degree License (Motorcycles): to 16 years old persons (Type 'A', for motorcycles less than 150 cm3 engine capacity) and to 18 years old persons (Type 'B', to drive motorcycles of any engine capacity).
Third Degree License (motor vehicles for the private transportation of persons, with a capacity of up to nine seats, including that of the driver; vehicles destined to the transport of load, whose maximum weight does not exceed two thousand five hundred (2500) kilograms): Type 'A', to people over sixteen (16) years and under eighteen (18), subject to the special legal regime; Type 'B', to persons over eighteen (18) years of age.
Fourth and Fifth Degree Licenses: To persons over 21 years of age to drive vehicles with a capacity of up to nine (9) seats destined for public transport of passengers and cargo vehicles, whose maximum weight does not exceed six thousand (6,000) kilograms. Persons over twenty-five (25) years old, to drive all types of vehicles whatever their capacity or use.[54]
Organ donations[edit]
Licensing departments in many countries add an organ donation option on application forms. Sometimes a small picture of a heart or the term Organ Donor is printed on the driving permit, to indicate the holder's agreement to donate their organs in case of sudden death, such as after a collision.
In the United States, this is governed by the Uniform Anatomical Gift Act. In New Zealand and the Republic of Ireland, willingness to donate organs for transplant is also listed on driving permits. In Australia, the system of notating organ donation requests on permits was replaced in July 2005 with a national registration system and the issue of special cards. In Great Britain (England, Wales and Scotland), code '115' is printed on the reverse of their driving permit to indicate that details are on the National Health Service (NHS) Organ Donor Register.
International and interstate considerations[edit]
Many groupings of countries have agreed to recognize driving permits issued by the authorities of any of their members. Examples include the European Union and the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC), where holders of permits issued by any member state can drive in all member states. Most countries worldwide will also recognize the permits of citizens of foreign states wishing to drive as visitors. All EU member countries now issue permits in a standard format, regardless of the language of the permit.[55]
The International Driving Permit (IDP) (sometimes erroneously called the International Driver's License) is a booklet which is an authorized translation of a driver's home permit into up to ten languages (including languages with non-Latin scripts such as Arabic, Chinese, Greek, Japanese and Russian).[56] In many cases, it is obtained from a motoring organization such as the Automobile Association or the equivalent in the driver's home country. In other cases, it is delivered by the same government services that deliver ordinary permits. The IDP has no validity except when used in conjunction with the driver's own domestic permit. The existence of the IDP is necessitated by many countries refusing to recognize driving permits written in foreign languages without accompanying certified translations.
Temporary visitors from the United States to France (less than 90 days) are permitted to drive with a valid US state driver's license. In addition to holding a US driver's license, visitors are advised (but not required) to carry an International Driving permit, or attach a French translation to their US state driver's license.
China, at present, does not recognize IDPs and requires drivers to get an additional Chinese licence before being officially allowed on all roads. Holders of foreign permits are exempt from certain requirements when obtaining a Chinese permit.
A minimum driving age often exists regardless of possession of a foreign permit; an American cannot drive below the local minimum age in Europe, nor can a 17-year-old Briton drive in mainland Europe where the minimum age is 18.[57]
Many countries have established a driver's license exchange arrangement after reviews of the foreign jurisdiction's licensing processes. Where standards in the other jurisdiction are comparable in areas such as medical standards, minimum driving age, and knowledge and road testing, an exchange of the foreign jurisdiction's license may occur.[58] This may also be called Driver's License Reciprocity.[59]
Issues when moving permanently from one country or one state to another[edit]
Most issuing authorities require holders of foreign permits taking up residence in their jurisdiction to obtain a local driving permit within a limited time, typically 6 months or 1 year. In most cases, the driver must follow the full local procedure for obtaining a permit, but some jurisdictions have mutual recognition agreements and will exchange the foreign permit for a local one without the need to undertake an additional driving test.
An exception is the EU, where permits do not need to be exchanged since the introduction of the 'common EU driving licence scheme'.
Australia[edit]
Each state in Australia has different rules for how long a visitor can drive on an international license or a license from a different state. For example, New South Wales allows three months[60] whereas Victoria allows six months.[61] Drivers that move permanently to another state must change their license to a local state license within the prescribed time. This is usually free. In some states, drivers with a full New Zealand driver licence are treated as interstate drivers.
Canada[edit]
British Columbia has a reciprocal licence exchange scheme with other Canadian provinces and territories as well as other countries provided the licence is still valid or has been expired for less than three years.[62]
In Ontario, if you have a (7L) licence, which is given out by British Columbia, Alberta and Saskatchewan, you are not restricted to being accompanied by a supervisor while driving in Ontario, until you get your full permit at the age of 18. Ontario has a reciprocal permit exchange scheme for Canadian provinces and territories, Canadian Forces Europe, and some other countries.[63]
Quebec has a reciprocal licence exchange scheme for Canadian provinces and territories, Canadian Forces Europe, American states and other countries.[64]
France[edit]
Drivers License Age Limit By State
US state driver's licenses can be exchanged from the 15 states below during the first year of legal residence in France: Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, New Hampshire, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Wisconsin.[65]
If you are a resident of France (holder of a carte de séjour or carte de résidence), you may drive in France with a valid US state driver's license for a one-year recognition period, beginning on the date of validity of the first carte de séjour (exception for students who are allowed to use their driver's license for the duration of their studies). In addition to having a US state driver's license, residents are also required to attach a French translation done by a sworn translator, or expert traducteur or traducteur assermenté.
Germany[edit]
The US Embassy, supported by the American Chamber of Commerce in Germany, continues to actively press all US states, territories, and the federal district to reach an agreement on the reciprocal recognition of driver's licenses with Germany, essentially a waiver of testing requirements.[66]
If approved, drivers from Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, Washington State, Wisconsin, and Wyoming will be exempted from road and written driving tests.
If approved, drivers from Connecticut, District of Columbia, Florida, Indiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, Oregon, Tennessee will be exempted from the road tests only.
Hong Kong[edit]
As stated on the application form for direct issue of a full Hong Kong driving licence (Rev. 11/2008),[67] when a person has documentary evidence to the Commissioner for Transport's satisfaction that all of the following apply, the person is eligible for direct issue of a Hong Kong permit:
- The person has held a full driving licence (not an International Driving Permit) for three years issued by one of the following countries or territories: Australia, Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, Bermuda, Canada, China, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Guernsey, Iceland, India, Ireland, the Isle of Man, Israel, Italy, Japan, Jersey, Luxembourg, Macao, Malaysia, Namibia, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Pakistan, Portugal, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, or the United States.
- The driving entitlement(s) for which one is applying must be equivalent to the class(es) which are authorized by the issuing country or place; and
- The driving licence was obtained by passing the relevant driving test(s) in the issuing country or territory; and
- Satisfies one of the three requirements below:
- The licence was originally issued on any date during a period of residence of not less than 6 months in the country or place of issue (entry and departure stamps on a passport, school transcript or employer's testimonial with employment period specified are accepted as proof); or
- The licence has been issued for not less than 5 years immediately before the application; or
- Hold a passport or an equivalent travel document of the country or territory in which the license was issued.
Singapore[edit]
A foreigner 18 years of age or older and holding a Work Pass/Dependent Pass/Student Pass may drive in Singapore with a valid class 3, 3A or 2B foreign permit, for a period of not more than 12 months. A Singaporean driving licence is required after 12 months. Those on short term social visits may drive with their foreign permit for up to 12 months each time they enter into Singapore. For licences not written in the English language, an International Driving Permit or translation is required.
Foreign licence conversion is only granted for class 2B and class 3 qualified driving licences.
In order to convert a foreign permit to a Singapore driving licence, passing the Basic Theory Test (BTT) is required. Overseas theory test results are not admissible for consideration.[68]
Sweden[edit]
Residents in Sweden having a foreign permit can exchange it to a Swedish licence, if it is from an EU country, an EEA country, Switzerland or Japan.[69] Foreign licences are valid if the holder has not been living in Sweden for more than a year (and some more requirements).
United Kingdom[edit]
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), which licenses drivers in Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) but not Northern Ireland, exchanges full driving permits issued by:[70]
- Northern Ireland. Although part of the UK, driving licences are issued by the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA or DVANI)in Northern Ireland
- Countries within the EEA and Switzerland,
- The British Crown dependencies of Guernsey, Jersey and the Isle of Man
- Gibraltar and other British Overseas Territories,
- Australia, Barbados, the Faroe Islands, Hong Kong, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.
- Canada (by default, Canadian driver's licences will only be exchanged for licences to drive automatic transmission cars, unless documentary evidence is provided that a manual gearbox (shift) test was passed in Canada)
United States[edit]
A Driver's License from any US state is valid for temporary use in any other US state, although most states require that a person have a license issued by their state of primary residence. Most states allow residents to convert an out-of-state license to an in-state license without any additional written or road tests.
Delaware has a reciprocal license exchange for Germany, France, and Taiwan to allow holders of those licenses to obtain a Delaware license without any additional written or road tests.[71]
A District of Columbia driver's license may be obtained while maintaining an out-of-country driver's license. D.C. driver's licenses may vary for non-US citizens, depending on visa classification. The written test is required for non-US citizens who possess an out-of-country driver's license.[72]
Florida has a reciprocal license agreement with South Korea, allowing South Korea licenses to be exchanged for a Florida license, and vice versa, without taking a written or road test.[73]
A New York State driver's license may be obtained by a resident of another country. If the driver has a driver's license from any nation except Canada, they must pass a written test, complete a 5-hour pre-licensing course, and pass a road test to qualify for a driver's license.[74]
Texas does not require drivers from Canada, France, Germany, or Taiwan to take the written and practical tests, but drivers must agree to a vision test.[75]
Washington State has a reciprocal license exchange, allowing holders of valid licenses from any other US state, British Columbia, Germany, South Korea, and Taiwan to exchange their license for a Washington State license without taking any written or road tests.[76]
Virginia has a reciprocal agreement with Canada, France, and Germany. The knowledge and skills tests may be waived if the driver meets residency and other requirements.[77]
See also[edit]
References[edit]
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The objective of this system is to monitor and control the issuance of driving licenses with a view to addressing the problem of fake licences which are the cause for many road accidents. This is because the system allows everybody to obtain any license and drive any car one prefers. However under the current system holders of driving license of certain class will be obliged to drive only such a class upon which he was tested for and not otherwise. At the initial stage the applicant will have to undergo biometric measures and finger prints.
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- ^'Production of Documents'. Sussex Police. Archived from the original on 2012-05-14. Retrieved 2012-03-27.
- ^Mopeds, a variant name of European AM category
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- ^ ab'Changes to Turkish driving license laws affect expats'. The Kalkan Turkey Web Site. 2016-01-07. Archived from the original on 2017-06-08. Retrieved 2017-07-04.
- ^Haber, Hürriyet (2016-02-22). 'Ehliyet yenileme randevu işlemleri nasıl yapılır?'. Gündem (in Turkish). Hürriyet Gazetecilik. Retrieved 2017-07-04.
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- ^Administrator. 'Clases de Licencia'. Retrieved 2015-10-13.
- ^[1]
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- ^'Appendix C to Part 658'. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Archived from the original on 2008-02-13. Retrieved 2008-02-04.
- ^'SOS - CDL Group Designations and Endorsements'. www.michigan.gov. Retrieved 2017-09-01.
- ^'New York State Commercial Driver's Manual'. Retrieved 2006-10-25.
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- ^'Advanced driving courses'. NZ Transport Agency. 2017-07-05.
- ^'About driver licences: New Zealand's driver licensing system'. NZ Transport Agency. Retrieved 2016-12-08.
- ^'How do I get my class 2 truck licence?'. August 21, 2017.
- ^'Guía Licencia' (in Spanish). Venezuela: Instituto Nacional de Transporte Terrestre. 2012. Retrieved 2018-08-15.
- ^'Transport - Driving license'. Ec.europa.eu. 2003-10-22. Archived from the original on 2012-02-11. Retrieved 2012-02-04.
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- ^'Application For Direct Issue Of Full Hong Kong Driving Licence'(PDF). Retrieved 2012-02-04.
- ^'Archived copy'. Archived from the original on 2016-01-16. Retrieved 2016-02-04.CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link)
- ^'Foreign Driver's Licences'(PDF). Retrieved 2012-02-04.
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- ^'State of Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles - Driver's License Over 18 FAQ's'. Dmv.de.gov. Retrieved 2012-02-04.
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- ^'Archived copy'(PDF). Archived from the original(PDF) on 2012-01-04. Retrieved 2012-01-20.CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link)
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- ^'Department of Motor Vehicles Virginia'(PDF). dmv.virginia.gov. Retrieved 2015-09-27.
External links[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Driver's licenses. |
Retrieved from 'https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Driver%27s_license&oldid=918472791'
(Redirected from Driver's license in the United States)
In the United States, driver's licenses are issued by each individual state, territory, and the District of Columbia rather than by the federal government because of the concept of federalism. Drivers are normally required to obtain a license from their state of residence and all states recognize each other's licenses for non-resident age requirements. A state may also suspend an individual's driving privilege within its borders for traffic violations. Many states share a common system of license classes, with some exceptions, e.g. commercial license classes are standardized by federal regulation at 49 C.F.R.383.[1]
- 3Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDL)
- 5Drivers licensing laws
- 7Use as identification and proof of age
History[edit]
As the number of motor vehicles reached tens of thousands, state and local governments assumed a new power: authorizing vehicles and drivers. In 1901, New York became the first state to register automobiles; by 1918 all states required license plates.[2] States were slower to require licenses for drivers. Only 39 states issued them by 1935 and few required a test, despite widespread concern about incompetent drivers.[2] Early motorists were taught to drive by automobile salesmen, family and friends, or organizations like the YMCA. By the 1930s, many high schools offered driver education.[2]
Massachusetts and Missouri were the first states to require a driver's license in 1903, but there was no test associated with the license.[3] “In 1908, Henry Ford launched the Model T, the first affordable automobile for many middle-class Americans. (In 1919, when Ford’s native state of Michigan started issuing driver’s licenses, he got his first one at age 56.) The same year the Model T debuted, Rhode Island became the first state to require both a license and a driver’s exam (Massachusetts instituted a chauffeur exam in 1907 and started requiring tests for all other drivers in 1920). California, now known for its car culture, started requiring licenses in 1913 and exams in 1927.”[3] It was not until 1959 that all the states required a license for the driver.[3]
Standard and special licenses[edit]
- Unrestricted Licenses are driver's licenses that most American drivers have in order to drive. Various states differ on what class they utilize to distinguish between a typical driver's license and special licenses, such as restricted, chauffeur, or motorcycle licenses. For instance, Tennessee designates Class D as a regular driver's license, while Class M is a motorcycle license and Class H is a hardship license (see below).
- Hardship licenses for minors are driver's licenses that are restricted to drivers between 14 and 15 (sometimes up to 18) years old who need to drive to and from home and school due to serious hardships, e.g. the driver's family has financial or medical problems; the driver needs to get to work or school and has no other practical way of getting to work or school. A hardship license for minors is distinct from hardship licenses granted for drivers with revoked or suspended licenses.[4] The table below includes states that provide hardship licenses for minors.
- Provisional Licenses are functionally the same as a driver's license, but are typically issued to new drivers under the age of 18, i.e. 14–17 years old. Almost all states, with the exception of South Dakota, have some form of a graduated licensing provision; however, the actual restrictions and the length of time a new driver must adhere to them vary widely by state. Restrictions frequently include:
- A curfew, after which night driving is not permitted (unless 18 years of age, or if the individual has completed an online course) without an adult present (typically 11 p.m., like Pennsylvania, or 1 a.m., like Wisconsin). However, some states (e.g. North Carolina) have curfews as early as 9 p.m. Some states such as New York provide exceptions for special situations, such as driving home from work or school functions, picking up family members, or for medical appointments, while others such as Massachusetts do not.
- Restrictions on the number of passengers under a specific age present in the vehicle. For example, in California, minors may not transport people under age 20 for the first 365 days of licensure unless said passengers are family members (brother, sister, cousin, niece, nephew, or anyone who is 21 or had their license for 1 year or longer etc.).
- Chauffeur Licenses are functionally the same as a passenger car license, but also allow the holder to drive a taxi, limo, or other livery vehicle for hire. Livery licensing in the United States is somewhat complicated. In the United States, chauffeur licenses are not considered commercial or professional driver's licenses, and (assuming the driver already holds a regular passenger license) a road test is usually not required to convert it to a chauffeur license; however, some states do require a short written exam on taxi-specific driving laws or a background check, and require the driver to be at least 18 years of age (although many taxi companies will not hire drivers under 25 for insurance reasons). This type of license is typically, though not universally, called 'Class E'. Some states simply add an endorsement to a regular license, while others require no special permission at the state level to drive a taxi or limo. Florida once issued chauffeur licenses through its Class D licenses, a designation that was eliminated in 2006. Regardless of whether and how the state handles chauffeur licensing, a permit or license must always be obtained from the city, town, or county the driver will be operating in.
- Motorcycle Licenses covers motorcycles only; frequently combined with a regular driver's license. In some states this does not include some types of mopeds, scooters, or motorized bicycles, but with a wide variety of different state-by-state definitions for these vehicles. A common but not universal criterion is an engine displacement of 250 cc (15 cu in) or less, but also wheel size, type of transmission, and more are sometimes used in the legal codes to distinguish mopeds and scooters from motorcycles. These vehicles sometimes do not require a motorcycle license, or in some states any license at all, as well as in some states avoiding insurance and registration requirements. Unlike EU states, no US state differentiates between low and full powered motorcycles for the purposes of licensing. Some states require an additional motorcycle license to operate a sidecar rig.[5]
- Enhanced Licenses are issued to U.S. citizens in Washington, Vermont, Michigan, California, Minnesota, and New York, and establish nationality in addition to driving privileges. An EDL is a WHTI compliant document, acceptable for re-entering the United States via land and sea crossings from Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean. A U.S. Passport, birth certificate, or another document proving citizenship is required to apply for this type of license. Motorcycle and commercial driver's licenses (see above and below) usually can also be issued as enhanced.
- Handicap Permits are issued to persons who meet the proper guidelines for requiring handicap driving and parking access. They are granted special access to improve their quality of life as a driver. In certain states, namely Texas, a handicapped person's drivers license can be revoked based on their disability.[6]
Some states also have additional classifications. Hawaii, for example, has a separate license category for drivers who only operate mopeds, while some more northerly states have separate categories for snowmobiles and ATVs. South Carolina and Georgia have non-commercial versions of every commercial class license for agricultural purposes.
Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDL)[edit]
Class C licenses are issued in all states, except Massachusetts, in both commercial and non-commercial status. A non-commercial Class C license may not be used for hire. Most recreational vehicles that do not fall into the class D/E category, such as converted buses, tractor, lawn mowers, or full size (greater than 40 feet (12 m)) campers require a non-commercial Class C license and the corresponding permit from the state with which you reside.
CDL endorsements[edit]
- Class A: Combination (tractor plus trailer) vehicle of 26,001 pounds (11,794 kg) or more. Includes split (coupled) buses.[7]
- Class B: Single (straight) vehicle of 26,001 pounds (11,794 kg) or more (includes most buses including articulated buses). Also includes combination vehicles for commercial use weighing no less than 26,001 lb.[7]
- Class C: Commercial vehicle that doesn't fit classes A or B, but is placarded for hazardous materials or is intended to carry 16 or more persons (excluding Georgia.) May include heavy-duty non-commercial vehicles with or without trailers, trailer must have a gross vehicle weight rating of less than 10,001 pounds (4,536 kg). Vehicles must have a gross vehicle weight rating of less than 26,001 pounds (11,794 kg). [7]
Professional drivers are usually required to add endorsements to their CDL in order to drive certain types of vehicles that require additional training. CDL endorsements requirements are mostly similar, but some vary slightly from state to state. The training and testing requirements are regulated by the US Department of Transportation. Endorsements are as follows:[8]
- P: Passenger Transport (buses carrying 16 or more persons. Vans for hire carrying 11 or more persons in California)
- H: Hazardous Materials (requires a TSA background check as well as an extensive written exam. The driver must be a US Citizen or permanent lawful resident to obtain an H or X endorsement.)
- M: Metal coil
- N: Tank Vehicles (Required for carrying liquids in bulk.)
- T: Double/Triple Trailers (Road trains) (Class A licenses only.)
- X: Hazardous Materials and Tank Combination
- L: Air Brakes
- S: School Bus (In addition to a standard bus endorsement, more stringent TSA and CORI background checks are required.)
CDL restrictions[edit]
Licenses can be restricted through any of the following ways:[8]
- B: Corrective Lenses are required while operating a motor vehicle.
- C: A mechanical aid is required to operate a commercial vehicle.
- D: A prosthetic aid is required to operate a commercial vehicle.
- E: The driver may only operate a commercial vehicle with an automatic transmission.
- F: An outside mirror is required on the commercial vehicle.
- G: The driver of a commercial vehicle is only allowed to operate during daylight hours.
- K: Drivers are authorized to drive a commercial vehicle within the state of issue (intrastate) only.[9] This restriction applies to any holder of a CDL license who is under 21 years old.
- L: Drivers are restricted from operating a commercial vehicle with air brakes. This restriction is issued when a driver either fails the air brake component of the general knowledge test or performs the CDL road skills test in a vehicle not equipped with air brakes.
- M: CDL-A holders may operate CDL-B school buses only.
- N: CDL-A and CDL-B holders may operate CDL-C school buses only.
- O: Driver limited to pintail hook trailers only.
- Z: Alcohol Interlock Device required in the commercial vehicle.
- T: 60-day temporary license.
Foreign officials and diplomats[edit]
In a rare exception to states and territories issuing driver's licenses, the State Department's Office of Foreign Missions (OFM) issues driver's licenses to foreign officials and diplomats, bypassing the states and territories in which they live. OFM-issued driver licenses are equivalent to a regular state-issued license.[10]
Drivers licensing laws[edit]
Restricted license age requirements by US requirements to receive a restricted driver's license by state 14 years and 3 months
15 years and 6 months
16 years and 3-4 months
17 years
Driver License Age Restrictions Essay
The minimum age to obtain a restricted driver's license in the United States varies from 14 years, three months in South Dakota to as high as 17 in New Jersey. In most states, with the exception of South Dakota, a graduated licensing law applies to newly licensed teenage drivers, going by names such as Provisional Driver, Junior Operator, Probationary Driver, or Intermediate License. These licenses restrict certain driving privileges, such as whether the new driver may carry passengers and if so how many, as well as setting a curfew for young drivers to be off the roads. For example, Utah drivers who are under 18 may not drive other people outside the family in their first six months with a license. Unlike in some states of Australia and some provinces of Canada, however, graduated licensing laws do not require lowered speed limits, displaying of L and P plates, restrictions on towing a trailer or boat, or prohibitions on highway driving or operating high performance cars.
Drivers under 18 are usually required to attend a comprehensive driver's education program either at their high school or a professional driving school and take a certain number of behind the wheel lessons with a certified driving instructor before applying for a license. Some states like New York also require new adult drivers to attend some form of driver's education before applying for a license.[11]
However, in some states all newly licensed adult drivers may be on probation for a set amount of time (usually between six months and two years), during which traffic violations carry harsher penalties or mandatory suspensions that would not normally apply to experienced drivers.
According to federal law, the minimum age to operate a commercial vehicle in interstate transit is 21; as a result the minimum age to apply for an unrestricted commercial driver's license is 21.[12]
Driving a school bus also requires a CDL, however the minimum age to drive a school bus is typically higher, usually 25. Some states issue restricted intrastate commercial driver's licenses, valid for operating commercial vehicles in that state only, to drivers aged 18 and older. Professional drivers who are aged 18–20 typically cannot be licensed to drive tractor trailers, hazardous materials, or school buses.
Licenses for adults and minors; GDL laws[edit]
Below is a list of Graduated Driver's Licenses (GDL) and hardship licenses for minors laws for each of the 50 states and the District of Columbia. The list includes the state agency responsible for issuing driver's licenses and the length of time that a full (unrestricted) driver's license is valid for.[4][13][14][15][16]
State | Hardship License for Minors | Minimum Age for Learner's Permit | Minimum Age for Restricted License | Minimum Age for Full (Unrestricted) License | Validity of Full (Unrestricted) License | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Alabama Department of Public Safety, Driver License Division [17] | No | 15 years | 16 years | 17 years | 4 years | Restricted license achievable after reaching age 16 and holding permit for six months. No driving from midnight to 6:00 a.m. and no more than three passengers for six months or reaching age 17, whichever is sooner. The learner must also log 30 practice hours or take driver training with permit. |
Alaska Department of Administration, Division of Motor Vehicles [18] | No | 14 years | 16 years | 16 years, 6 months | 5 years | The license holder must log 40 practice hours, become 16, and have had a permit for six months to get a restricted license. No passengers under 21 and no driving between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. until holding license for six months or reaching age 18, whichever is sooner. |
Arizona Department of Transportation, Motor Vehicle Division [19] | No | 15 years, 6 months | 16 years | 16 years, 6 months | 8 years; expires when driver turns 65 years of age, then 5 years after that. | The license holder must log 30 practice hours or take driver education. No more than one passenger allowed in the vehicle or driving between 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. until reaching age 18 or holding license for six months, whichever is sooner. |
Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration, Office of Driver Services [20] | No | 14 years | 16 years | 18 years | 8 years | Learner's permit must be held for six months and the driver must reach the age of 16. |
California Department of Motor Vehicles[21] | Yes, see notes. | 15 years, 6 months | 16 years | 17 years | 5 years | Permit upon completion of driver's education registration; cannot drive with a permit without a parent, guardian, or licensed adult aged 25 or older. Restrictions include not being able to drive anyone under the age of 20 and not being able to drive between the hours of 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. for one year after receiving the license or upon reaching age 18, whichever is sooner.[22][23] Learner's permit must be held for six months and learner must log 50 practice hours. Note: In California, to obtain a hardship license for a minor, the minor must be at least 14 but under the age of 18. The pertinent form is DL120 and is entitled 'Junior Permit Statement of Facts'.[24] |
Colorado Department of Revenue, Division of Motor Vehicles [25] | No | 15 years | 16 years | 17 years | 5 years | Learner's permit must be held for one year. 50 practice hours must be logged, 10 of which must be at night. Drivers under 18 cannot have any passengers under 21 for the first 6 months of being licensed, unless it's an immediate family member. At 6 months 1 passenger under 21 is allowed and unrestricted after 1 year. Driving between midnight and 5 a.m. is also prohibited until the driver has been licensed for one year or turns 18. |
Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles[26] | No | 16 years | 16 years, 4 months | 18 years | Either 4 or 6 years, at the discretion of the driver | Learner's permit must be held for four months and driver must log 40 practice hours. No passengers under 20 for six months, no driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. until the driver turns 18. |
Delaware Department of Transportation, Division of Motor Vehicles [27] | No | 16 years | 16 years, 6 months | 17 years | 8 years | Permit must be held for six months. Learner must have 50 practice hours. No driving from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. or any more than one passenger for six months. |
District of Columbia Department of Motor Vehicles [28] | No | 16 years | 16 years, 6 months | 18 years | 8 years[29] | Learner's permit must be held for six months and have 40 practice hours before obtaining provisional license. Provisional license must be held for six months and have 10 practice hours of nigh-time driving before obtaining a regular driver's license. Restrictions remain in effect upon issuance of regular driver's license until reaching age 18. |
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles[30] | No | 15 years | 16 years | 18 years | 8 years | Permit required for one year if under 18 years of age. 16 years - No 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. driving for one year unless with 21 year or older licensed driver or driving to and from work. 17 years - No 1 a.m. to 5 a.m. driving for one year unless with 21 year or older licensed driver or driving to and from work.[note 1] |
Georgia Department of Driver Services [31] | Yes, see notes. | 15 years | 16 years | 18 years | 8 years | Permit must be held for one year and learner must have 40 practice hours. One passenger under the age of 18 for first six months or 1000 miles. Up to three passengers permitted for the following six months or 1000 miles. After that no more than four passengers until reaching age 18. Also, driver may not drive from 1 a.m to 6 a.m. until reaching age 18. For more information visit.[32] Note: In Georgia, to obtain a hardship license for a minor, the minor must have a suspended license due to school conduct or attendance problems and needs an exemption in order to get to and from school or for family medical reasons. The minor must be old enough to already have a license. The pertinent form is DDS 7012.[33] |
Hawaii (Each island has its own requirements regarding driver's licenses. For Hawaii, Maui, and Kaua'i, as well as the City and County of Honolulu, see [34]) | No | 15 years, 6 months | 16 years | 17 years | 8 years | Permit must be held for six months. Only one passenger under 18 or driving from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. for one year or upon age 18, whichever is sooner. |
Idaho Transportation Department, Division of Motor Vehicles [35] | No | 14 years, 6 months | 15 years | 16 years | 4 years (if driver is aged 21 to 62, driver may opt for the license to be valid for either 4 or 8 years) | Permit must be held for six months. Learner must log 50 practice hours. Those under 17 must complete an accredited driver training program to receive an instruction permit. Those under 16 may only drive during daylight hours, unless supervised by a licensed driver 21 or over. For the first six months of license possession, the driver is only able to carry one non-family member under age 17 in their car. |
Illinois Secretary of State, Driver Services Department [36] | No | 15 years | 16 years | 18 years | 4 years | If under 18, applicants must complete 50 hours of driving, complete driver's education, show proof of enrollment in school and hold permit for nine months before one can apply for license. If convicted of a moving violation during permit phase, the 9-month waiting period restarts. Anyone under 18 cannot drive between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. Monday - Thursday or 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. Friday - Saturday. If the teenage driver is coming from a job, school activity, or a family oriented place, this curfew is extended with proof of being there until the time of the event being over. Drivers under 18 for the first 12 months or until the driver turns 18, whichever occurs first, are allowed one passenger under the age of 18 unless those being transported are immediate family members or over 18. Driver must have not been convicted of a moving violation in the six months prior to turning 18 to receive full license privileges. If a driver is convicted of a moving violation in the first full year of licensing, this will result in extension of the passenger restriction for an additional six months. If a driver is convicted of a moving violation before turning 18, the Secretary of State will mail a warning letter to the driver and parents. If an under 18 driver is convicted of two moving violations in 24 months, this will result in a minimum 1-month license suspension. |
Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles [37] | No | 15 years | 16 years, 3 months | 18 years | 6 years | Learner's Permit must be held for 180 days and learner must be 16 and 90 days before getting a restricted license. If the learner is younger than 18 years of age on receiving the driver's license, it is considered probationary. Holders of a probationary driver's license must observe the following regulations: The driver may not use any telecommunication device while operating the vehicle. For the first 180 days of holding their license, the driver may not have any passengers, unless the passengers are over the age of 25 and hold a valid driver's license. Holders of a probationary driver's license must comply with state and local curfew laws.[38] |
Iowa Department of Transportation, Motor Vehicle Division, Office of Driver Services [39] | Yes, see notes | 14 years | 16 years | 17 years | 2 years (16-18); 5 years (18-70); 2 years (70 and older) (8 years effective 01/01/19)[40] | Permit must be held for six months and learner must be 16. Learner must also log at least 20 practice hours. Restricted drivers can not drive between 12:30 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. unless there is a parent/guardian, immediate family member over 21, or a designated adult over 25. The driver may drive between these times if they are granted a waiver for travel to and from work or school related activities. The number of passengers is limited to the number of seat belts. Full license at 17 years old if the driver has no violation and accident free for 12 consecutive months, otherwise they must be 18 years old. Iowa driver's licenses can vary from two years to a maximum of five years; the license drops to a maximum term of two years after the individual holding the license reaches the age of 70.[41] Note: In Iowa, to obtain a hardship license for a minor, called a Minor School License (MSL), the minor must be at minimum 14 and a half years old, the minor must have completed an Iowa-approved drivers education class unless exempted due to hardship, the minor must have a valid instruction permit for the previous six months, the minor's driving history must be free of convictions for moving traffic violations, contributive accidents and license withdrawals during the six-month period immediately preceding application, and the minor must live at least one mile or more from the school he or she is enrolled in. The pertinent form is Form 430021, entitled 'Affidavit for School License', but the form must be completed by the school and signed by the minor's parent(s) or legal guardian(s).[42] |
Kansas Department of Revenue, Division of Motor Vehicles [43] | Yes, Farm Permit, see notes | 14 years | 16 years | 16 years, 6 months | 6 years | A farm permit shall entitle the licensee, who is at least 14 years of age, but less than 16 years of age, to operate the appropriate motor vehicles at any time: while going to or from or in connection with any farm job, employment or other farm-related work; on days while school is in session, over the most direct and accessible route between the licensee's residence and school of enrollment for the purpose of school attendance; when the licensee is operating a passenger car at any time when accompanied by an adult who is the holder of a valid commercial driver's license, class A, B or C driver's license and who is actually occupying a seat beside the driver. Permit must be held for six months. After logging 20 daytime and five nighttime hours of driving, if the learner is between age 15 and 16 the learner has the option of getting a restricted license. The learner must then log an additional 20 daytime and five nighttime practice hours and reach age 16 before getting a less restricted license. Applicant must provide affidavit showing at least 50 hours of adult supervised driving, with ten of those hours being at night, by a licensed driver at least 21 years old. At age 17, a full-privileges license may be obtained with the same requirements as the semi-restricted license.[44]Nonresident: At least 16 years of age and has in immediate possession a valid license issued by home state or country.[45] |
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Division of Driver Licensing [46] | No | 16 years | 16 years, 6 months | 17 years | 8 years (effective 01/01/19)[47] | Learner's permit must be held for six months and learner must log 60 practice hours. No driving from midnight to 6 a.m. and no more than one passenger under 20 for six months or reaching age 18, whichever is sooner. |
Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections, Office of Motor Vehicles [48] | No | 15 years | 16 years | 17 years | 6 years | Learners's Permit (Age 15): Must complete 30 hours of classroom instruction and eight hours behind the wheel driving instruction. May not drive without a licensed driver over 21 or a licensed sibling over 18. Intermediate License(Age 16): Must have completed the Learners's Permit requirements, pass the on-road drivers test, and have the Learner's Permit for at least 90 days. May not drive between the hours of 11 p.m. to 5 a.m.Full License(Age 17): Must successfully complete Learner's Permit and Intermediate License stages or be a minimum of 17 years of age prior to application for the first time. |
Maine Secretary of State, Bureau of Motor Vehicles[49] | No | 15 years | 16 years | 16 years, 9 months | 6 years | Learner must have permit for six months, be 16, and have 35 practice hours. Only immediate family and no driving from midnight to 5 a.m. for nine months or reaching age 18, whichever is sooner. Under 18 may not use cell phone while driving. |
Maryland Department of Transportation, Motor Vehicle Administration[50] | No | 15 years, 9 months | 16 years, 6 months | 18 years | 8 years | Learner must hold permit for nine months and log 60 practice hours. Anyone under 18 years of age with a provisional license may not carry passengers under 18 for the first five months of having the license or drive between midnight and 5 a.m. In Maryland, all new drivers regardless of age hold a provisional license for 18 months, but for adult drivers, the passenger and time restrictions do not apply (however the enhanced penalties do.) |
Massachusetts Department of Transportation, Registry of Motor Vehicles[51] | No | 16 years | 16 years, 6 months | 18 years | 5 years | Learner must complete driver's education, hold their permit for six months incident free (no accidents, no citations, no warnings), and log 40 practice hours with a licensed driver over 21. Junior operators cannot drive between 12:30 a.m. and 5 a.m. unless accompanied by their parent or legal guardian, or 1 a.m. if on their way home. Massachusetts law provides no exceptions for employment, education, or medical reasons. Additionally, junior operators cannot drive with passengers under the age of 18 (except immediate family members) unless accompanied by a licensed driver of 21 within the first six months of obtaining a License. The Massachusetts JOL law also takes a zero-tolerance stance towards speeding, drivers under 18 caught speeding are subject to a mandatory 90-day suspension for the first offense accompanied by a mandatory road rage education class and a mandatory retake of the both permit and road tests. A one-year revocation is mandatory for the second and each subsequent offense.[52] Drivers under the age of 18 may not use a mobile phone or any other mobile electronic device while driving, except in emergencies.[53] |
Michigan Secretary of State[54] | Yes, see notes. | 14 years, 8 months | 16 years | 17 years | 4 years | Learner must reach age 16, have permit for six months, and log 50 practice hours. To obtain a Level 1 License (Learner's Permit) the learner is required to complete Segment 1 of a Driver's Education Course. A Level 2 License (Junior License) permits the holder to drive unaccompanied with up to one person not in immediate family except between the hours of 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless accompanied by a licensed driver over 21 or driving to or from work, school sanctioned event, organized activity, or religious event.[55] Note: In Michigan, to obtain a hardship license for a minor, the minor, who is at least 14 years old, must be living on a family-owned farm, the minor's family income must meet specific levels depending on the number of family members, there must be a significant change in the farming operation, i.e. the loss of a previous driver, to warrant requesting a minor restricted license, and the minor has no alternative transportation available. The pertinent form is entitled 'Application for Minor Restricted License Special Farming Need Only'.[56] Due to the expense of the graduated licensing system (including driver education, it can reach upwards of $500 for the entire process), most poorer Michigan residents wait until they are 18, spend $11 to get the Temporary Instruction Permit, and then take a road test, which is no higher than $50. |
Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Division of Driver and Vehicle Services [57] | Yes, see notes. | 15 years | 16 years | 17 years | 4 years | Permit must be held for six months and learner must reach age 16 and log 40 practice hours. (50 if a supplemental parent course is not completed.) No cell phone usage before age 18, all passengers must wear seat belts. Effective August 1, 2008: junior operators can drive with minor passengers now. Driving curfew from midnight to 5 a.m. for first six months. Exceptions to these rules are traveling from home to place of employment, school, school events that offer no transportation, or other employment reasons. Note: In Minnesota, to obtain a hardship license for a minor, called a Restricted Farm Work License, the minor must be at least 15 years old and need the license to help a parent or legal guardian on a farm. The pertinent form is the Farm Work License Affidavit.[58] |
Mississippi Department of Public Safety[59] | No | 15 years | 16 years | 16 years, 6 months | Either 4 or 8 years, at the discretion of the driver | Must hold a learner's permit for one year before applying for an intermediate license, and is restricted for use between hours of 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. |
Missouri Department of Revenue[60] | No | 15 years | 16 years | 17 years, 11 months | 6 years | Must hold a learner's permit for six months before applying for an intermediate license. 40 hours of driving instruction are required including ten hours at night and reaching of age 16 and holding the permit for six months to be eligible for the restricted license. Restrictions include no driving between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. unless required for school and work. Exceptions include school events and driving to and from place to place. limitations of one passenger under 19 for the first six months after the license is issued and three passengers thereafter, and there must be no traffic or alcohol offenses for one year to advance to the full license.[61] The State recently passed a measure mandating all Missouri drivers tests be given in only English or American Sign Language (ASL); the law has yet to be passed. |
Montana Department of Justice, Motor Vehicle Division [62] | No | 14 years, 6 months | 15 years | 16 years | Expires at age 21; 8 years (ages 21-67); expires at age 75 (ages 68-74); 4 years (75 and older)[63] | Permit must be held for six months. Learner must log 50 practice hours. No driving from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. for one year. No more than one unrelated passenger under 18 for first six months. No more than three unrelated passengers under 18 for second six months. Note: The validity periods to the left are for Class D licenses. |
Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles [64] | Yes, see notes. | 15 years | 16 years | 17 years | 5 years | Learner must log 50 hours of practice, hold permit for six months, and reach age 16. Must have restricted license for at least one year before applying for your first unrestricted permit. Only one passenger under 19 allowed for first month. No driving from midnight to 6 a.m. for one year. Note: In Nebraska, to obtain a hardship license for a minor, both a School Learners Permit and a School Permit will be issued. A minor, who is at a minimum 14 years old, must have a School Learners Permit for at least 2 months before getting a School Permit. A School Permit will be issued for a minor, who is at a minimum age of 14 years, 2 months, who lives at least a mile and a half or more from school, who resides outside of a city with 5,000 people or more, or who attends a school outside a city of 5,000 people or more. The School Permit is to be used for the purpose of transporting the minor or any family member who resides with the minor to attend school, extracurricular, or school-related activities at the school, and the minor may drive under the personal supervision of a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old. If a minor has not completed a DMV-approved Driver Safety Course, then the minor is required to compile 50 hours of driving time with a parent, guardian or licensed driver 21 years or older. Information about the School Learners Permit and School Permit can be found here at [65] and the certification of 50 hours of driving time is located at.[66] |
Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles[67] | Yes, see notes. | 15 years, 6 months | 16 years | 18 years | 8 years[68] | Learner must have 50 practice hours and hold permit for six months. Underage drivers may not transport passengers under 18 for the first six months of being licensed, and may not drive between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. until they turn 18 (except with a letter from a school official or employer.) Additional restrictions apply in Las Vegas and Reno. Note: In Nevada, to obtain a hardship license for a minor, a minor restricted license cannot be approved for commercial driving purposes, to seek employment, or for public school students in Carson City, Clark, Douglas, or Washoe counties; workdays and hours are limited to a maximum of six (6) days per week, ten (10) hours per day; a physician’s statement is required if a minor is driving for medical purposes; a 'Verification of Need' affidavit must be completed by an unbiased individual (a member of the clergy or a social worker, etc.) and signed in front of a DMV authorized representative or notary public official if a minor is driving for medical appointments or to go to a grocery store; school authorities and parents/guardians must complete certain sections if a minor is driving to school. The form is entitled 'Restricted License Information'.[69] |
New Hampshire Department of Safety, Division of Motor Vehicles, Driver Licensing Office | No | 15 years, 6 months | 16 years | 18 years | 5 years | Learner's Permit - No formal learner's permit is required in NH, 151⁄2-year-olds may drive so long as they are accompanied by a licensed driver aged 25 or older.[70] Restricted License - 'Youth Operator Licenses' are issued to those between 16 and 21 years of age and expire when the person turns 21 years old (although drivers may operate unrestricted after they reach their 18th birthday). 16 and 17 years old applicants must obtain written consent from a parent or legal guardian, and a certificate of successful completion of a driver education course as provided in RSA 263:19. Youth Operators under 18 years are restricted from operating a motor vehicle in the following manner: between the hours of 1:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m.; the number of occupants exceeds the number of safety restraints in the vehicle; during the first six months after issuance of the license with more than one passenger less than 25 years of age who is not a member of the holder's family unless accompanied by a licensed responsible adult who is at least 25 years of age. The director of motor vehicles can issue a hardship license for a person between 16 and 18 who hasn't completed a driver's education course, if there is no readily available means of transportation exist to and from a school and the license requirements of RSA 263:14 would cause an undue hardship.[71] |
New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission[72] | No | 16 years | 17 years | 18 years | 4 years | Learner must reach age 17 and have had a permit for six months. No driving between 11:01 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. Driver may not drive with more than one additional passenger in the car unless the accompanying driver is the guardian to the permit holder, other than parents, guardians, or dependents, until a Basic License is obtained, which the minimum age to receive is 18. Since May 1, 2010, Kyleigh's Law took place, it requires any driver under age 21, who holds a permit or probationary (formerly provisional) driver license, buy a $4.00 pair of decals and display them on the top left corner of the front and rear license plates of their vehicles. Despite having over 250000 drivers that are required to display the decals, less than 80000 have been sold.[73] As some of the 80000 decals sold are for drivers with multiple cars, it is estimated that 75% of provisional drivers ignore this law.[74] All passengers must wear seatbelt. |
New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division [75] | No | 15 years | 15 years, 6 months | 16 years, 6 months | Either 4 or 8 years, at the discretion of the driver up to age 75. Licenses are 1-year, with passage of an eye exam required for renewal, for drivers age 75 and older. | Learner must log 50 hours of practice and hold permit for six months. No driving from midnight to 5 a.m. and no more than one passenger under age 21 for one year after receiving license. |
New York State Department of Motor Vehicles[76] | No | 16 years | 16 years, 6 months | 17 years | 8 years | The New York State DMV divides the state into three regions: New York City, Long Island (Nassau/Suffolk), and 'All Other Counties (includes Westchester and Rockland counties)'. Learner Permits: NYC has the toughest regulations of the regions, requiring an instructor's brake to be installed, and the accompanying driver must be a parent or professional instructor (driving school/driver's ed teacher), and prohibits driving between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. On Long Island, one must be accompanied by a guardian or professional instructor, and may not drive between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. In the rest of the state, one may drive while accompanied by a licensed driver over 21 from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.; other hours require parent or professional accompaniment. If you have a Class DJ or MJ junior license, you cannot drive within the five boroughs of New York City under any circumstances. Junior operator licenses (Class DJ or MJ) allows unaccompanied driving only in the 3rd 'All Other Regions' area from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. Between the hours of 9 PM and 5 AM, you may drive without a supervising driver only directly between your home and your employment (you must carry appropriate proof of employment) or to a school course, unless the driver is accompanied by their parent, legal guardian, or a certified driving instructor. In the Long Island Region, if you have a junior license (Class DJ, MJ or DJ/MJ), you may drive in Nassau and Suffolk counties between the hours of 5 AM and 9 PM without a supervising driver only directly between your home and your employment (you must carry appropriate proof of employment). A state-approved cooperative work-study educational program an approved program for credit in a post-secondary institution a state-approved registered evening high school while engaged in farm employment an approved driver education course.[77] Adolescent drivers must have their permit accident and ticket free for six full months before taking their road test, along with the completion at least 50 hours of supervised driving, 15 of which must be in moderate to heavy traffic. A full driver's education course is not required in New York State, although license applicants who do not have a driver's ed certificate must complete a five-hour pre-licensing course. For 17-year-olds, a junior license will be converted to a full standard license if the driver submits a Driver's Ed Certificate and a certified completion of 50 hours of driving plus 15 in moderate to heavy traffic. Otherwise, it will be converted on the driver's 18th birthday. A 12 a.m. curfew exists for drivers who have not completed the driver's ed program.[citation needed] |
North Carolina Department of Transportation, Division of Motor Vehicles[78] | No | 15 years | 16 years | 16 years, 6 months | 8 years (ages 18–65); 5 years (age 66 or older)[79] | Driver's education required for a Learner Permit to be issued. Permit must be held for twelve months with the last six months accident and point-free before obtaining a Limited Provisional License. Limited Provisional license holders cannot drive between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m, unless it is for work or an event for a volunteer fire department or emergency/ rescue squad if the driver is a member. School and church events are not included in this exception. A limit of one non-family member passenger under 21 applies. Driver may still drive with a supervising driver outside of the restricted hours. A Full Provisional License can be obtained after holding a Limited Provisional license for six months without an accident or points added to the license, and this license removes the time of day and passenger restrictions, but some restrictions remain until the license holder turns eighteen. |
North Dakota Department of Transportation, Driver License Division [80] | No | 14 years | 15 years | 16 years | 6 years | Those under 16 who have a license may only drive a car that is their parents'. Licensed drivers under the age of 16 may not drive with more passengers than the vehicle manufacturer's suggested capacity, no unsupervised driving between sunset or 9:00 PM whichever is later and 5:00 AM unless the driver is driving directly to or from work, official school activity, or religious activity. |
Ohio Department of Public Safety, Bureau of Motor Vehicles [81] | Yes, see notes. | 15 years, 6 months | 16 years | 18 years | 4 years (age 21 and up); until the 21st birthday (ages 16–20) | Learner must log 50 practice hours and hold permit for six months, if under 18. Those who are 151⁄2 with a valid learners permit may only drive with a parent or a drivers education instructor with a valid driver license. Those who are 16 and over with a learners permit may drive with anyone who is over 21 with a valid driver license. Drivers under 18 must complete driver's education. 18 and over have no permit hold time, driver education or practice time requirements. Under 17 either with a learner's permit or a driver license cannot drive between midnight and 6 a.m., under 18 either with a learner's permit or a driver license cannot drive between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m., unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. Drivers under 17 may only have one non-family member under the age of 21 in the vehicle; no restrictions on family members or those over 21. 18 and over have full license privileges and have no time or passenger restrictions. Special restricted license can drive after hours for purposes of employment, education, travel between home and school, vocational training, employment opportunities, and attending church services. Note: In Ohio, to obtain a hardship license for a minor, the minor, aged 14 or 15 years old, must be the only licensed driver in the household; any other licensed driver will be required to surrender his or her driver license; a hardship license may not be used for the child to drive themselves or siblings to and from school, work or social and school events; the license is valid only within a 10-mile radius of the home for obtaining groceries and other household necessities, to drive the disabled parent or guardian to medical appointments and medical emergencies; the parent or guardian must accompany the child at all times while driving; the family must live in an area where there is no public transportation or community services available to assist them; the parent or guardian must show proof that they can maintain financial responsibility insurance on the driver; the child must complete a driver education course and the graduated licensing requirements. To apply for a hardship license for a minor in Ohio, a minor and his or her family can send a letter to the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, P.O. Box 16784, Attention Driver License Special Case Division/Medical Unit, Columbus, Ohio, 43216-6784; the letter must explain the hardship and provide the BMV with the minor's full name, date of birth, social security number and the names, dates of birth and social security numbers of any licensed drivers in the household; the BMV must also receive a notarized statement advising that any other driver(s) in the home would be willing to surrender their driver licenses if a hardship license were to be issued; before a hardship license is authorized, an investigation is conducted to assist the BMV in determining whether the household qualifies. |
Oklahoma Department of Public Safety[82] | No | 15 years, 6 months | 16 years | 16 years, 6 months | 4 years | Learner must have 40 practice hours and hold permit for six months. Intermediate drivers cannot drive more than a single passenger of any age (family excluded) or drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless there is a licensed driver present or until the driver is 18 years of age and has a GDL (Graduated Driver's License). |
Oregon Department of Transportation, Driver and Motor Vehicle Services Division [83] | No | 15 years | 16 years | 18 years | 8 years | Learner must be 16, have had permit for six months and have either completed an ODOT approved driving course and 50 hours behind the wheel outside of class or 100 practice hours. Driving between midnight and 5 a.m. is prohibited during the first year of holding the license unless going between home, school, or work. No passengers under 20 for the first six months of being licensed (except family members.) For another six months, no more than three passengers under 20. All Passengers must wear seat belts. Small children must be in Approved car seats According to their size and age. |
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, Driver and Vehicle Services [84] | No | 16 years | 16 years, 6 months | 17 years, 6 months | 4 years | Those with a learner's permit must drive with an adult 21 years of age or older. The adult the learner's permit holder is driving with must have a valid driver's license in any U.S. state or the District of Columbia. It is required that a permit holder doesn't only get practice driving in perfect conditions, but also with driving at night and driving in inclement weather. Permit holders are also required to get practice driving on limited-access highways. A classroom driver's education course may be taken by 10th grade students in Pennsylvania, since that is the year when most students will turn 16 years old and will be getting their permit. Permit must be held for six months and the holder must log 65 practice hours before issuance of restricted license. Those with a restricted license may not drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless a family member 18 years or older is present. Exceptions to this curfew include school-sponsored events, religious events, work, and volunteer firefighters. Only one non-family passenger under the age of 18 is permitted for the first six months of holding a junior license. Only three non-family passengers permitted until the driver turns 18. A restricted license automatically becomes an unrestricted license on the learner's 18th birthday.[85] |
Rhode Island Department of Revenue, Division of Motor Vehicles [86] | No | 16 years | 16 years, 6 months | 17 years, 6 months | 5 years | Learner must hold permit for six months and have 50 practice hours. Junior operator under the age of 18 may not drive between the hours of 1 a.m. and 3 a.m. or carry more than one passenger under age 21 for one year or until they turn 18, whichever is sooner. Special restricted license can drive after hours for purposes of employment, education, travel between home and school, vocational training, employment opportunities, and attending church services.[87] |
South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles [88] | No | 15 years | 15 years, 6 months | 16 years, 6 months | 8 years[89] | A 16-year-old may apply on a restricted license for permission to drive between the hours of 6 p.m. and midnight. 16-year-old drivers who have held the Beginner Permit for a minimum of 180 days or hold a conditional license are eligible for the Special Restricted License. Applicants for the Special Restricted License must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian during the application process to sign the Special Restricted License application. Applicants must bring their Beginner Permit and submit a PDLA form certifying the following:
Teen drivers applying for the Special Restricted License must pass a vision screening and the DMV road test. Special Restricted License holders may drive unaccompanied from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or until 8:00 p.m. during daylight saving time. Outside of those hours the teen driver may drive until midnight if accompanied by a licensed driver that is a minimum of 21 years of age. Between midnight and 4:00 a.m. a Special Restricted License holder must be accompanied by a licensed parent or legal guardian. Special Restricted License holders may receive an exception for these time restrictions if they can prove that the restrictions interfere with employment, education, travel between home and school, vocational training, employment opportunities, or attending church services. Teen drivers must submit two statements to qualify the exception. One of the statements must be from a parent or legal guardian and the other must be a statement on letterhead from a school official or your employer. The statements must describe the reason the waiver is needed. Passengers under the age of 21 are limited to two unless they are immediate family members or students be transported to or from school or the license holder is accompanied by a licensed driver that is a minimum of 21 years of age. Teen drivers that hold the Special Restricted License for 16-year-olds for one year without a conviction for a traffic violation and have not been at-fault in an accident may obtain full driving privileges when they reach the age of 17. |
South Dakota Department of Public Safety [90] | No | 14 years | 14 years, 3 months | 16 years | 5 years | Learner can either take driver training and hold permit for three months or not take the course and hold permit for six months. Under 16 may not drive from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. |
Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, Driver License Services [91] | Yes, see notes. | 15 years | 16 years | 17 years | 8 years | Learner must have permit for six months and log 50 hours of practice driving. No driving from 11 p.m. to 4 a.m. or more than one passenger for one year or until reaching age 18, whichever is sooner. Note: In Tennessee, to obtain a hardship license for a minor, called a Class H license, if the minor is aged 14 or 15, the minor can operate a Class D passenger vehicle or Class M motorcycle (limited to 125 cc) or both; the minor must pass a vision screening, knowledge test, and road test to operate a Class D passenger vehicle; take the Class M knowledge and driving test in addition to the Class D knowledge test to drive a Class M vehicle; be limited to daylight hours only (5 am to 7 pm, no exceptions) and authorized locations only within a 25-mile radius from the minor's residence, as specified in the Department of Safety (DOS) letter. If the minor who has a Class H license is aged 15, the minor is treated the same as a Class PD (learners permit) license who drives with a licensed driver 21 years or older who sits in the front passenger seat. A Class H license will expire on the minor's 16th birthday. More information can be found at [92] and the form for application for a hardship license is located at.[93] |
Texas Department of Public Safety[94] | Yes, see notes. | 15 years | 16 years | 18 years | 6 years (84 and younger); 2 years (85 and older)[95] | Learner's must complete the classroom portion of driver training to receive a permit. Permit holders must be with someone age 21 while driving, also must be held for six months and learner must reach age 16 to get restricted license. Drivers with a restricted license (under 18 years old) may drive with no more than one other person under 21 who is not a family member as per TRC 545.424, may not drive from 1 a.m. to 5 a.m., and cannot use a cell phone while driving for the first six months. As of March 1, 2010, anyone age 18 through 24 must complete an approved driver education course and driving skills test to become licensed in the state of Texas in accordance with Texas Senate Bill 1317.[96] Provisions of this law only apply to first-time Texas driver's license applicants. Note: In Texas, for a minor to obtain a hardship license, the minor must be aged 14 to 18 years old; must have an unusual economic hardship on the minor's family, the sickness or illness of a member of the minor's family, or he or she is regularly enrolled in a vocational education program and requires a driver license to pursue the program and has completed an approved course in driver education. To obtain the pertinent form, called the DL 77 form, go to.[97] |
Utah Department of Public Safety, Driver License Division [98] | No | 15 years | 16 years | 17 years | 5 years | Drivers under 17 may not drive between midnight and 4 a.m. If under 18, must hold learner permit for six months and log 40 practice hours. Under 18, for the first six months no passengers that are not immediate family members; unless there is a licensed driver 21 years or older, or driver reaches age 18. |
Vermont Agency of Transportation, Department of Motor Vehicles[99] | No | 15 years | 16 years | 16 years, 6 months | Either 2 or 4 years, at the discretion of the driver | Learner must hold permit for one year and log 40 practice hours. Junior operators may not carry any passengers (including siblings) for the first 90 days after receiving their license, and immediate family members only for the second three months (passenger restrictions are waived if accompanied by a parent or another licensed adult aged 25 or older.[100]) |
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles [101] | No | 15 years, 6 months | 16 years, 3 months | 18 years | 8 years | Learner must hold permit for nine months and log 45 supervised driving hours, 15 of which must be at night. Under 18 may not carry more than one minor passenger for the first six months of being licensed and no more than three passengers until reaching age 18. All minors subject to a curfew between midnight to 4:00 a.m. until reaching age 18. |
Washington Department of Licensing [102] | No | 15 years | 16 years | 17 years | 6 years | Learner must reach age 16, hold permit for six months, and log 50 hours of practice driving. For the first six months, no driving with any passengers who are under 20 years old who are not members of the learner's immediate family. For the first year, no driving between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. unless with a licensed driver age 25 or older. After two violations of the restrictions, the driver's license is suspended for six months or until their 18th birthday (whichever is sooner). Also, a single traffic violation will extend the second phase (no more than three passengers under 20 and still no driving from 1 a.m. to 5 a.m.) until age 18 if license had not been held for one year before the traffic violation. |
West Virginia Department of Transportation, Division of Motor Vehicles [103] | No | 15 years | 16 years | 17 years | 5 years | Learner must reach age 16, hold permit for six months, and log 50 hours of practice or take driver education. No passengers under age 19 or driving from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. for one year. |
Wisconsin Department of Transportation, Division of Motor Vehicles [104] | Yes, see notes. | 15 years, 6 months | 16 years | 16 years, 9 months | 8 years | Learner must hold permit for six months and log 30 hours of practice. Passenger and nighttime driving restrictions removed after nine months, or upon reaching the age of 18 whichever is sooner. All first license holders, regardless of age, and out-of-state transfers under 21 or with less than three years' experience are initially issued probationary licenses valid for a three-year period and are subject to enhanced penalties after the first moving violation. Note: In Wisconsin, to obtain a hardship license for a minor, the minor must be at least 14 years of age, but under the age of 18; must appear in person, accompanied by his or her parent or legal guardian, before an examining officer with a birth certificate showing the minor is at least 14 years old; must have the usage of an automobile, farm truck, dual purpose farm truck, motorcycle with an engine of no more than 125 cc, moped, or motor bicycle owned and registered by the applicant's parent or guardian, or a farm truck leased to the applicant's parent or guardian; must pass an examination, including a test of the applicant's ability to safely operate the type of vehicle for which the minor is requesting the ability to use. The hardship license is valid only until the minor secures a full (unrestricted) driver's license or reaches the age of 18, whichever comes first. The minor is not permitted to drive in hours of darkness or in a city of more than 500,000 people; operate either a commercial vehicle or vehicle for hire (e.g. a taxicab). These restrictions are provided in Section 343.08 of the Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations.[105] |
Wyoming Department of Transportation, Driver Services Program [106] | Yes, see notes. | 15 years | 16 years | 16 years, 6 months | 4 years | Learner must reach age 16 and log 50 practice hours. No more than one passenger under 18 or driving from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. for the first six months or until reaching age 17, whichever is sooner. Note: In Wyoming, to obtain a hardship license for a minor, the minor must be aged 14 or 15 years, the minor's residence is more than 5 miles from the school they attend; the minor has a regular job (a minimum of 10 hours per week) more than 5 miles from the minor’s residence; the minor must have a license to work in his/her parents’ business; any other circumstances which the Wyoming Highway Patrol (WHP) finds to be an extreme inconvenience, i.e. the need to provide transportation for long-term medical treatment or conditions (not to include routine medical office visits). Instructions accompanying the Restricted License Affidavit must be read, the Restricted License Affidavit itself must be filled out, a school attendance verification form must be attached, if the license is to be used for transportation to or from school, or in conjunction with extracurricular school activities, a work verification form must be attached, if the license is to be used for transportation to and from work; a verification of parental ownership of business form must be attached, if the license is to be used in conjunction with a parental business; an insurance verification form must be completed and attached; the Restrictions form must be completed by the WHP. More information can be found at.[107] The instructions accompanying the Restricted License Affidavit can be found at.[108] The Restricted License Affidavit itself can be found at,[109] the School Attendance Verification form at,[110] the Work Verification form at,[111] the Verification of Parental Ownership of Business form at,[112] the Insurance Verification form at,[113] and the Restrictions form (only to be filled out by the WHP) at.[114] |
Decline in licensing among juveniles in the U.S.[edit]
According to a December 2, 2004 Los Angeles Times article, only 43% of American 15-17-year-olds had drivers licenses in 2002.[115] By comparison, the percentage of drivers licenses in this age group in 1982 was 52%.[citation needed]
Use as identification and proof of age[edit]
Driver's licenses issued in the United States have a number or alphanumeric code issued by the issuing state's department of motor vehicles (or equivalent), usually show a photograph of the bearer, as well as a copy of the bearer's signature, the address of the bearer's primary residence, the type or class of license, restrictions, endorsements (if any), the physical characteristics of the bearer (such as height, weight, hair color and eye color) and birth date. No two driver's license numbers issued by a state are alike. Social Security numbers are now prohibited by federal law from appearing on new driver's licenses due to identity theft concerns. In most states, to be compliant with AAMVA standards, the orientation of a driver's license for persons under the age of 21 is vertical while a driver's license for those over the age of 21 is horizontal. Since the driver's license is often used as proof of a person's age, the difference in orientation makes it easy to determine that a person is legally allowed to purchase or consume alcohol (the drinking age in all U.S. states is 21). Some states, however, do not require that a driver's license is changed to horizontal, such as Arizona, where it is optional to change to a horizontal license. Furthermore, the vertical license does not expire until age 65 in the state of Arizona. Most states require that when a driver establishes residence in a state, he or she must obtain a license issued by that state within a certain time frame.[citation needed]
A Vertical California Drivers License for people under the age of 21
Because there is no national identity card in the United States, the driver's license is often used as the de facto equivalent for completion of many common business and governmental transactions. As a result, driver's licenses are the focus of many kinds of identity theft. Driver's licenses were not always identification cards. In many states, driver's licenses did not even have a photograph well into the 1980s. Activism by the Mothers Against Drunk Driving organization for the use of photo ID age verification in conjunction with increasing the drinking age to 21 in order to reduce underage drinking led to photographs being added to all state licenses. New York and Tennessee were the last states to add photos in 1986. However, New Jersey later allowed drivers to get non-photo licenses; this was later revoked.[116] Vermont license holders have the option of receiving a non-photo license.[citation needed] All Tennessee drivers aged 60 years of age or older had the option of a non-photo driver's license prior to January 2013, when photo licenses were required for voting identification. All people with valid non-photo licenses will be allowed to get a photo license when their current license expires.[117] Thirteen states allow the option of a non-photo driver's license for reasons of religious belief: Arkansas, Indiana, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, North Dakota, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Washington, and Wisconsin.[118]
Later additions varied from state to state, and have included fingerprints, bar codes, magnetic strips, social security numbers, and tamper-proof features, most of which were added to prevent identity theft and to curb the use of fake IDs. States have now slowly been converting to digitized driver's licenses, which incorporate holograms and bar codes to prevent forgery.
Non-driver identification cards[edit]
Many states, usually through the same agency that issues driver's licenses, provide identification cards for people who do not drive.[119]
Real ID[edit]
The Department of Homeland Security has the power through the Real ID Act of 2005 to set standards relating to identification of applicants and license design for state-issued driver licenses and identification cards. States are not required to comply with Real ID, but if a state does not comply, any driver licenses or ID cards issued by that state will not be valid for any official purpose with the federal government, meaning they will not be accepted for entering federal buildings or boarding airplanes.
For a state to meet Real ID compliance, licenses and ID cards issued from that state must be approved by DHS in meeting Real ID requirements.
States can choose to issue both regular licenses and ID cards as well as Real IDs, but any non-Real ID must be marked 'Not for Federal Identification'. Real IDs are valid for 8 years.
Real IDs are allowed to be issued only to legal immigrants and citizens of the United States.
When a person applies for a Real ID, either as a new driver license or ID card applicant or renewing a current license or ID card, they must present a citizenship document (US passport, certified birth certificate or citizenship certificate) or proof of legal immigrant status, proof of a Social Security number if they have been issued one, proof of any name changes if using birth certificate, and two proofs of residency in the state. The state then must verify the documents and store them either electronically or on paper. No one may have more than one Real ID at one time.
A RealID can be identified several different ways depending on the state. It is a gold or black star design located on the top right third of the ID.[120] As of October 2011, Connecticut also issues them.[121] Starting in January 2013, Ohio is issuing RealIDs under the name 'Safe ID'.[122]California started issuing RealIDs on January 22, 2018.[123]
Enhanced driver's licenses[edit]
Additionally, some states, mostly those with an international border, issue enhanced driver's licenses and enhanced ID cards. Enhanced licenses combine a regular driver's license with the specifications of the new federal passport card. Thus, in addition to providing driving privileges, the enhanced license also is proof of U.S. citizenship, and can therefore be used to cross the Canadian and Mexican borders by road, rail, or sea, although air travel still requires a traditional passport book.[124] The enhanced licenses are also fully Real ID compliant.
As of May 2009, Vermont, New York, Michigan, and Washington were issuing enhanced driver's licenses and ID cards.[125] In January 2014, Minnesota became the fifth state to issue enhanced driver's licenses, while Ohio is set to become the sixth state once it has been approved by its legislature.[126]
On March 27, 2008, the Secretary of Homeland Security announced that Washington's enhanced driver's license[127] was the first such license approved under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative; according to a Homeland Security press release, the department is also working with Arizonan authorities to develop enhanced driver's licenses. On September 16, 2008, New York began issuing enhanced driver's licenses that meet WHTI requirements. Texas was expected to also implement an enhanced driver's license program, but the program has been blocked by Texas Governor Rick Perry, despite a state law authorizing the Texas Department of Public Safety to issue EDLs and a ruling by the state attorney general, Greg Abbott, that Texas's production of EDLs would comply with federal requirements.[128]
Digital driver's licenses[edit]
California,[129]Iowa, and Delaware have proposed digital drivers licenses as a means of identification. The license would be available as an app by MorphoTrust USA and installed on a user's personal cellphone.[130] Several questions have been raised about user privacy, since a police officer may ask for one's license and gain access to one's cellphone.[131][132]
Louisiana[133] passed House Bill 481 in 2016 which became Act 625, making Louisiana the first state with a legally accepted digital driver’s license via LA Wallet, an app created by Envoc that launched in July 2018.[134] The law allows Louisiana residents to present driver identification using LA Wallet '...upon demand of any officer or agent of the department or any police officer of the state, parish, or municipality...'.[135] The Louisiana digital driver's license requires no additional hardware to accept and includes a “no-touch” policy whereby the citizen remains in possession of the mobile device at all times. In October 2018, the Louisiana Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin approved usage of LA Wallet for voter identification at the polling stations. [136] In January 2019, the Louisiana Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control issued a notice legally approving LA Wallet, Louisiana's Digital Driver's License app for purchase age verification for tobacco and alcohol sales. [137]
See also[edit]
Notes[edit]
- ^The state of Florida allows persons with permits to operate a motor vehicle, as follows:(1) Any adult 'may apply for a temporary instruction permit.'(2) The department can 'issue a temporary permit to an applicant for a Class E driver's license permitting him or her to operate a motor vehicle ...'(3) Any person can 'apply for a temporary commercial instruction permit.'(4) Any teenager '17 years and three months can and may' get a 'Class E drivers' license if they already 'possesses a valid driver's license issued in any state; and ... is accompanied by a licensed driver who is 21 years of age or older, who is licensed ...'[citation needed]
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