Driving Age by State: What Age Can You Get a License in the U.S.?

For many of us, obtaining a driver’s license is a huge accomplishment. However, the age at which people are permitted to drive differs from state to state in the U.S. There are specific regulations for each state about “driving age by state”, and one must consider how the governing laws dictate when the teenage driver can drive legally. Ranging from learner’s permits to full licenses, most stages follow a pattern set by the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system, which helps novices accumulate experience without risk. Some states allow limited driving as early as 14 or 15, while some others require a person to be at least 16 years old to obtain either a provisional or full license.

Confused about your state’s driving laws? Have questions after a teen driving incident? Fernando J. Lopez Law Group is here to help. We provide trusted legal guidance for families navigating driving-related laws, accidents, and more.

What Is the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Program?

The purpose of the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program is to enable teenage drivers to progressively learn how to drive safely and effectively by gaining the needed practice. The program accomplishes this by starting with restricted driving privileges. 

The GDL programs aim to reduce accidents among novice drivers and enhance their driving skills by providing them with a safer environment for lower-risk conditions. Studies indicate that the implementation of Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) programs enhances road safety and reduces the number of fatal collisions among teenage drivers.

GDL typically includes three key stages:

1. Learner’s Permit – the initial stage that allows students aged 15 or 16 to drive under the supervision of a qualified adult. In many states, the legal age for obtaining a learner’s permit is set at 14 or 15 years. 
2. Intermediate (Provisional) License – once the permit obligations are met, teenagers can now drive solo but under certain conditions, like time restrictions for night driving as well as restrictions on passenger numbers.
3. Full/regular Driver’s License – at this stage, teenagers are now granted full driving privileges so long as they demonstrate safe driving routinely, satisfy age requirements, and meet necessary experience guidelines.

Although GDL laws vary from one jurisdiction to another, the methodology remains relatively uniform, as all aim for safe and responsible learning among teenagers and driving instructors.

Age to Get a Learner’s Permit in Every State

The age at which an individual can obtain a learner’s permit differs across states. Most states enable teenagers to apply for the permit between 14 to 16 years of age. For instance, South Dakota and Iowa allow teens to start the process at 14, whereas New Jersey is one of the states that allows the process only after turning 16. 

To apply for a learner’s permit, most states require an applicant to pass a written knowledge test, which includes basic road rules and signage. Most states also require parental consent for motor vehicle operation if the applicant is under the age of eighteen, and in some states, the learner has to complete a driver’s education course before or soon after obtaining the permit. 

In addition, most states require a minimum level of prerequisite mentored driving hours to be completed ranging from 20 to 70 hours of instruction which is to be completed during the day and night, which is to be completed before the next stage. 

What Age Can You Drive By Yourself?

Most states allow autonomous driving after clearing the requirements for a learner’s permit when one turns 16 or 17 years of age. If you’ve ever wondered, can you drive by yourself at 16? The answer is yes, but usually under an intermediate or provisional license. A learner is allowed to drive independently, subject to certain restrictions aimed at enhancing safety.

Absolutely, driving alone at the age of 16 is legal in some states, but with certain stipulations. Most states have curfews for when driving is allowed, like not permitting it between the hours of 10 pm to 5 am, and other regulations such as limiting the number of young passengers in the vehicle. The use of cellphones is usually prohibited for most drivers under 18, even hands-free devices.

Understanding Key Milestones in U.S. Driving Age Laws

In the United States, driving age laws are set individually by each state, meaning the specific age to start supervised driving or drive unsupervised varies. While the minimum driving ages typically begin with a learner license at around the age is 16, some states and areas like the District of Columbia have different thresholds. A learner license allows driving with a licensed adult, giving teens valuable driving experience before advancing. Most states require a driver education course and a clean driving record before moving forward.

The next step is often an intermediate license, which may allow only one passenger and restrict nighttime driving. Texting bans and phone restrictions also apply to young license holders, aiming to promote safety. Upon reaching the age of 18 or completing the program requirements, teens can apply for an unrestricted license or a full driving license.

Some states permit unsupervised driving as early as 16, while others wait until 18 years old. To move through the stages, drivers must pass a driving test, log supervised hours, and show they are responsible. Understanding these steps is essential when obtaining a driving license in any U.S. state.

What Age Do You Get Your License in the U.S.?

In the U.S., the full, unrestricted driver’s license age eligibility is state-specific, falling between 16 to 18 years. If you’re wondering when can you get your license, know that full licensure is granted in Alaska at 16 years and 6 months, while Florida mandates age 18.

In most cases, states require:  

• Permit’s minimum holding period (usually 6 to 12 months)  
• 40 to 50 hours of driving under supervision  
• Compliance with restrictions during the graduated licensing stage, e.g., curfew, driving limits, and passenger caps during night hours  

GDL (Graduated Driver Licensing) rule violations may have dire consequences. These include GDL delays for full licensure, active driving permit license suspension or revocation, with requirements to restart certain processes and stages. Penalties, however, can vary by region.  

The transition to full driving freedom requires understanding and respecting GDL rules set out in a region’s licensed state documents. 

Driving Age By State Requirements (Top U.S. States)

What State Can You Drive at 13, 14, or 15?

Most states in the U.S. require one to be either 15 or 16 years old to begin driving. However, there are a select few rural states that make exemptions for early driving at 13 or 14 years to assist families in secluded areas. Curious about what state can you drive at 13? Keep reading to find out which states allow it and under what conditions.

• South Dakota has one of the most lenient driving age restrictions in the country. Individuals aged 14 years and 3 months can apply for a learner’s permit, and with specific conditions, can obtain a restricted license by 14 years and 6 months.
• The state of Iowa also permits 14-year-olds to drive with a school-issued permit. With this, a student can legally drive to and from school or any farm-related employment, but only during set times and in designated zones.
• In the state of Alaska, a 14-year-old can apply for a provisional license, provided they reside in a rural area where public transportation is not available. This is particularly helpful for work or family-related reasons.

To provide functional independence without compromising safety, these states implement restrictive guidelines, such as no night driving, parental supervision, and route controls.

Example: How the GDL System Works in Texas

In Texas, Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) aims to foster young drivers’ skills while ensuring safety. Everything starts when the child is 15 years old, as they can now apply for a learner’s license.

In Texas, this permit allows one to drive only when there is a licensed adult of 21 years or older seated in the front passenger seat. After holding the learner’s permit for six months, turning 16, and then obtaining an intermediate license, passengers under 21 are allowed. At 16, one is able to drive more independently but is still guided with restrictions. Encountering an accident-free period from then on, at 18 years of age, they are entitled to a full, unrestricted driver’s license. The intention of the GDL framework in Texas is to enable teenagers to acquire driving skills in a progressive manner.

Need Help Navigating Driving Laws or Accidents Involving Young Drivers?

Lopez Law Group Can Guide You Through

Our team here at Fernando J. Lopez Law Firm has encountered families who have teenagers with driver’s licenses. We understand how complicated the driving laws can get and how stressful addressing a ticket, an accident, or even a GDL infraction can become. Our staff has dealt with problems ranging from teenagers to their parents. We have provided support in myriad issues, including how old do you need to be to drive, GDL, and even with the more complex cases, such as tackling a minor’s accident. We always provide full support throughout the process.

Get Legal Advice for Driving-Related Issues

If you need help with teenage-related car issues, such as an accident, insurance problems, or a suspended license, we can assist you. Lopez Law Group is prepared to offer legal assistance and support to address any challenges that these new drivers may encounter. Whether you’re wondering how old do you have to be to get your license or to drive, or dealing with more serious legal concerns, you don’t have to face these challenges by yourself. Reach out to us now at FernandoJLopez.com to get your free initial consultation.

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