License Requirements
Before getting a driver license, a teen must:
- Be at least 16 years old.
- Pass a traffic safety education course.
- Have an instruction permit for at least 6 months.
- Get at least 50 hours of supervised driving practice (including 10 hours at night) with someone who has been licensed for 5 years or more.
- Not have any traffic violations within 6 months of applying for the license.
- Not have been convicted of any alcohol or drug offense while holding an instruction permit.
Special Rules for Teen Drivers
| From issue date until age 18: |
First six months: |
After six months until age 18: |
| Restrictions on Passengers |
No passengers under age 20 except immediate family members |
No more than 3 passengers under age 20 except immediate family members |
| Restrictions on Hours of Driving |
No driving between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. unless accompanied by parent, guardian, or licensed driver at least age 25 |
| Restrictions on Wireless Devices |
You aren’t permitted to use wireless devices while driving, even with a hands-free device. This includes talking on cell phones and sending or receiving text messages. You may only use a wireless device to report an emergency. |
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| Exceptions |
- There are no restrictions on hours of driving or passengers if IDL holder is driving for agricultural purposes.
- There are no restrictions on hours of driving or passengers if after twelve month IDL holder is not involved in a collision, or has not been convicted of, or found to have committed a traffic offense. When you turn 18, these special rules no longer apply and your intermediate driver license automatically becomes a regular license.
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Penalties for Driving Violations and Accidents
Conviction of first traffic offense or IDL violation:
- Passenger and nighttime restrictions are extended until you’re 18
- Court fine and warning letter sent to parent or guardian
Conviction of second traffic offense or IDL violation:
- Court fine and six-month suspension or until age 18
- Notice of suspension sent to parent or guardian
Conviction of third traffic offense or IDL violation:
- Court fine and suspension until age 18
- Notice of suspension sent to parent or guardian
