Graduated driver licensing: a plain guide for parents
Every US state lets new drivers earn their license in stages. Here is how the stages work and what to look up for your state.
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What graduated licensing is
Graduated driver licensing, or GDL, gives new drivers a chance to build experience behind the wheel in conditions that keep the risk low. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), all US states and the District of Columbia have graduated licensing, but the systems vary in strength: some states’ rules are stricter than others. In most states, the rules apply only to applicants younger than 18.
The three stages
| Stage | What it means | What to look up for your state |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Learner’s permit | Supervised driving only, while your teen learns. | Minimum age, who may supervise, how many practice hours, how long the permit must be held |
| 2. Intermediate license | Driving alone, with limits on higher-risk situations such as driving at night or with teen passengers. | The exact night hours, passenger limits and any exceptions |
| 3. Full license | Full driving privileges. | When the limits end |
IIHS describes these three stages as a supervised learner’s period, an intermediate license granted after the road test that limits driving in high-risk situations, and a license with full privileges. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) uses the same three stages.
Why parents matter
CDC says graduated licensing systems give longer practice periods, limit driving in high-risk conditions, and require greater participation from parents as their teens learn to drive. CDC also suggests a Parent-Teen Driving Agreement, so you and your teen agree on safe driving rules and write them down.
Exceptions exist
IIHS notes that all states allow at least some exceptions, so new drivers may drive for certain purposes during restricted hours. Check your state’s rules before you assume an exception applies.
Where to check your state’s rules
Your state’s driver licensing agency (often called the DMV) publishes the official handbook and the current GDL rules. Rules change, so check the agency’s own website rather than a summary.
A way to help at home
Playing short quiz games together is an easy way to keep road rules fresh for both of you, and it shows you which topics to talk about on your next practice drive.
Quick check
Which stage comes first?
A. Full license · B. Learner’s permit · C. Intermediate license
Show answer
B. Learner’s permit. The learner’s permit is the supervised first stage. Source: Reducing risk for teen drivers, CDC
Which limits are typical for the intermediate stage?
A. Night driving and teen passengers · B. Car color · C. Highway tolls
Show answer
A. Night driving and teen passengers. IIHS names nighttime driving and teen passengers as high-risk situations the intermediate stage limits. Source: Reducing risk for teen drivers, CDC
Where should you check your teen’s exact rules?
A. A friend in another state · B. Your state’s driver licensing agency · C. Any national website
Show answer
B. Your state’s driver licensing agency. GDL rules differ from state to state. Source: Reducing risk for teen drivers, CDC