Did you know that if you are under 18 years of age, you need the consent and signature of an adult to apply for a permit and that the adult can be held responsible and liable should something happen while you are operating a motor vehicle? Under the law, a person who signs the application of a minor for a permit or license can be held responsible and liable for damages caused by negligence or willful misconduct of a minor while driving a motor vehicle.
Stage 1: Applying for an Instruction Permit
Requirements: Must be at least 15 years and 6 months old. Must pass a vision test and written test. The test may be taken online at home with guardian supervision.
Restrictions: Must have a licensed adult (21 or older) in the front seat of the car at all times.
Possible Consequences: Up to 4 months in jail, up to 2 years of probation, fines up to $750, and community service.
Stage 2: Graduated License
Requirements: Must be at least 16 years old. Must have held the Instruction Permit for at least 6 months. Must pass a road test or complete a driver education program.
Restrictions: For the first 6 months, no driving between 12:00 AM - 5:00 AM unless accompanied by a guardian. For the first 6 months, no more than 1 passenger under 18 unless accompanied by a guardian. More than 1 is permitted if the passengers are siblings. Restrictions don’t apply once a driver turns 18.
Possible Consequences: License suspension, mandatory traffic school, and fines up to $100.
Stage 3: Operator License
Requirements: Must be at least 18 years old. Not required to obtain.