Graduated Licensing in All 50 States

by Jim Thompson | Last Updated: June 24, 2021

When it comes to young drivers, vehicle collision reports state that teen drivers have three times the crash rate per mile driven when compared to drivers that are 20 and older. Immaturity and newly granted freedoms often lead to speeding and other risky behaviors. Teen drivers also often lack the experience to recognize or know how to respond to hazards appropriately.

To protect inexperienced drivers, all states have instituted graduated licensing programs. Graduated licensing allows young drivers to practice driving skills with supervision before they get their license and comes with driving restrictions after they are licensed. These restrictions generally include establishing minimum ages for driving permits and licenses, required hours of practice time, and limits on night driving and the number of passengers the new driver can carry in their car.

As explained by the Govenors Highway Safety Association, there are three stages to the GDL process:

• Learner Stage: supervised driving, cumulating with a driving test
• Intermediate Stage: limiting unsupervised driving in high-risk situations
• Full Privilege Stage: a standard driver’s license.

Most states began enacting graduated licensing programs in the 1990s. Many of these programs have similar limitations placed on young drivers while some are unique.

• Cell Phones/Texting: 37 states ban all cell phone use by novice drivers.
• Nighttime Driving Restriction: All states except Vermont restrict nighttime driving during the intermediate stage.
• Passenger Restriction: 47 states and D.C. restrict the number of passengers during the intermediate stage.
• Novice Driver Decal: New Jersey is the only state with a measure requiring those younger than 21 without full-privilege licenses to display a decal on their vehicle identifying them as new drivers.
• Seatbelt requirements: All states mandate the use of seatbelts by the novice driver and all passengers. Delaware’s GDL program is the only one with a specified penalty for non-compliance. If the driver or a passenger under age 18 is found not to be wearing a seat belt, the permit holder will have their license suspended for 2 months.

Let’s Break ‘Em Down

All states have some elements of graduated licensing, but the specifics vary from state to state. Here’s what the road to an unrestricted license looks like for teen drivers in all 50.

Alabama

The Alabama graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Learner’s Permit)
  • Must be 15
  • Must pass a written knowledge (permit) test
  • May drive only when accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, certified driving instructor, or other licensed driver age 21 or older in the front seat
  • Must complete 30 hours of practice driving; none if driver has completed drivers ed
• Stage II (Restricted License)
  • Must be 16
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive during the hours of midnight to 6 a.m. unless traveling to or from work, school, a church-sponsored event, or in the event of an emergency. Can only transport one passenger other than immediate family members.
• Stage III (Unrestricted or Regular License)
  • Must be 17 or older
  • Must have had Stage II license at least 6 months

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Alabama Drivers License Guide

Alaska

The Alaska graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Learner’s Permit)
  • Must be 14
  • Must pass a written knowledge (permit) test
  • May drive only when accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, certified driving instructor, or other licensed driver age 21 or older in the front seat
  • Must complete 40 hours practice driving with at least 10 after dark
• Stage II (Provisional License)
  • Must be 16
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive during the hours of 1 a.m. to 5 a.m. unless traveling to or from work or in an emergency situation. Can transport no non-family passengers unless accompanied by parent or legal guardian
• Stage III (Unrestricted or Regular License)
  • Must have held provisional license 6 months with no traffic citations

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Alaska Drivers License Guide

Arizona

The Arizona graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Instruction Permit)
  • Must be 15 1/2
  • Must pass a written knowledge (permit) test
  • May drive only when accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, certified driving instructor, or other licensed driver age 21 or older in the front seat
  • Must complete drivers ed or 30 hours practice driving with at least 10 after dark
• Stage II (Graduated License)
  • Must be 16
  • Must have held permit for 6 months
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive during the hours of midnight to 5 a.m. unless traveling to or from work or in an emergency situation. Can transport only one non-family passenger for the first 6 months unless accompanied by parent or legal guardian
• Stage III (Unrestricted or Operator License)
  • Must be 18

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Arizona Drivers License Guide

Arkansas

The Arkansas graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Learners License)
  • Must be 14
  • Must pass a written knowledge (permit) test
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May drive only when accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, certified driving instructor, or other licensed driver age 21 or older in the front seat
• Stage II (Intermediate License)
  • Must have held learners license for 6 months
  • May NOT drive during the hours of 11 p.m. to 4 a.m. unless traveling to or from work, school, church function, or in an emergency situation. Can transport only one non-family passenger unless accompanied by parent or legal guardian
• Stage III (Unrestricted or “Class D” License)
  • Must be 18
  • Must have had no serious accidents or traffic citations in the prior 12 months

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Arkansas Drivers License Guide

California

The California graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Minor’s Permit)
  • Must be 15 1/2
  • Must pass a written knowledge (permit) test
  • Must have completed (or be currently enrolled) in drivers ed
  • Must be enrolled (or have completed) high school
  • May drive only when accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, certified driving instructor, or other licensed driver age 25 or older in the front seat
• Stage II (Minor’s Driver License)
  • Must have held minor’s permit for 6 months
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive during the hours of 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. unless traveling to or from work, school, or in an emergency situation. Can transport only one non-family passenger unless accompanied by parent or legal guardian
• Stage III (Unrestricted or Regular License)
  • Must be 18
  • Accidents and tickets will lead to the suspension of a minor’s driver license

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time California Drivers License Guide

Colorado

The Colorado graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Minor’s Permit)—Stage I steps depend on your age
  • If you are 15 to 15 1/2, you must complete drivers ed
  • If you are 15 1/2 to 16. you must complete drivers ed or an approved 4-hour driver awareness program
  • All first-time teen drivers must:
    • Pass a written knowledge (permit) test
    • Complete 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training
    • Complete 50 hours of practice drive time
  • May drive only when accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, certified driving instructor, or other licensed driver age 21 or older in the front seat
• Stage II (Restricted Driver License)
  • Must have held learners license for 12 months
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive during the hours of midnight to 5 a.m. unless traveling to or from work, school, or in an emergency situation. In the first six months can transport no passengers under age 21 unless accompanied by parent or legal guardian. For the second six months, you may transport one. No more than one front seat passenger at any time.
• Stage III (Unrestricted or Regular License)
  • Must have held restricted license for 12 months

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Colorado Drivers License Guide

Connecticut

The Connecticut graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Learners Permit)
  • Must be 16
  • Must pass a written knowledge (permit) test
  • No passengers except for a licensed driving instructor, or licensed parents, or individual instructing the permit holder who is a licensed driver at least 20 years old and has been licensed four years
• Stage II (Restricted Driver License)
  • Must have held learners license for 120 days
  • Must have completed 30 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of on-the-road training
  • Parent/guardian must complete two hour specialized course
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive during the hours of 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. unless traveling to or from work, school, or in an emergency situation. No passengers (except those permitted with a permit) for the first six months; only immediate family members for the second six months
• Stage III (Unrestricted or Regular License)
  • Must have held restricted license for 12 months

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Connecticut Drivers License Guide

Delaware

The Delaware graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Level One Learners Permit)
  • Must be 16
  • Must complete drivers ed
  • Must pass a written knowledge (permit) test
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • For the first 6 months, no driving except with an adult age 25 or older licensed for at least 5 years
• Stage II
  • After the first six months of valid Level One Learner’s Permit driving possession:
    • Permit holder may drive unsupervised between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.
    • Permit holder may drive between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. in the following situations:
      • When under supervision
      • When traveling to and from school, work, or church activities
    • Only allowed one passenger unless a supervisor is present
• Stage III (Unrestricted or “Class D” License)
  • Must have held Level One license for 12 months

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Delaware Drivers License Guide

Florida

The Florida graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Learners License)
  • Must be 15
  • Must complete Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education course
  • Must pass a written knowledge (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied at all times by a licensed driver aged 21 years or older
    • For the first 3 months after getting your permit, you can only drive during daylight hours
    • After 3 months, you can only drive between the hours of 6:00 AM and 10:00 PM.
• Stage II (Restricted License)
  • Must be 16
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • Must have held learners license for 12 months
  • If 16:
    • Cannot drive between the hours of 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. unless you are driving to or from work OR accompanied by a licensed driver aged 21 or older
  • If 17:
    • Cannot drive between the hours of 1 AM and 5 AM unless you are driving to or from work OR accompanied by a licensed driver aged 21 or older

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Florida Drivers License Guide

Georgia

The Georgia graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Instructional Permit)
  • Must be 15
  • Must pass a written knowledge (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied at all times by a Class C licensed driver aged 21 years or older in the front seat
• Stage II (Provisional or “Class D” License)
  • Must be 16
  • Must have held a Class CP Learner’s Permit (Instructional Permit) for at least 1 year and 1 day
  • Must have had no major violations that resulted in the suspension of your learner’s permit
  • Must have satisfied Joshua’s Law Requirements
  • May not drive between the hours of 12:00 midnight and 5:00 a.m, no exceptions
  • During the first six (6) months, only immediate family members can ride in the vehicle
  • During the second six (6) months, only one (1) passenger under 21 years of age and who is not a member of the driver’s immediate family can ride in the vehicle
  • After one year, only 3 passengers under 21 years of age and who are not members of the driver’s immediate family can ride in the vehicle.
• Stage III (Unrestricted or “Class C” License)
  • Must be 18
  • Upgrade can be done online

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Georgia Drivers License Guide

Hawaii

The Hawaii graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Instructional Permit)
  • Must be 15 1/2
  • Must pass a written knowledge (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied at all times by a licensed driver aged 21 years or older in the front seat
• Stage II (Provisional License)
  • Must be 16
  • Must have held Instructional Permit for at least 180 days
  • Must have had no major violations that resulted in the suspension of your learner’s permit
  • Must have completed drivers ed
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive during the hours of 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. unless traveling to or from work, school, or in an emergency situation. May NOT transport more than one passenger under 18 during these hours unless accompanied by parent or legal guardian
• Stage III (Unrestricted or “Class C” License)
  • Must be 17
  • Must have held Provisional License for at least 180 days

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Hawaii Drivers License Guide

Idaho

The Idaho graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Instructional Permit)
  • Must be 14 1/2
  • Must pass an approved driver education class consisting of:
    • Thirty (30) hours of classroom instruction
    • Six (6) hours of behind-the-wheel instruction
    • Six (6) hours in-car observation
  • Must pass a written knowledge (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied at all times by a licensed driver aged 21 years or older in the front seat
• Stage II (Graduated License)
  • Must be 15
  • Must have held Instructional Permit for 6 months
  • Must have completed 50 hours of practice driving (10 at night)
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive sundown to sunrise and may NOT transport more than one passenger under 17 for the first six months
• Stage III (Unrestricted License)
• Must be 18

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Idaho Drivers License Guide

Illinois

The Illinois graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Instructional Permit)
  • Must be 15
  • Must pass (or be enrolled in) an approved driver education class
  • Must pass a written knowledge (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied at all times by a licensed driver aged 21 years or older in the front seat
• Stage II (Graduated License)
  • Must be 16
  • Must have held Instructional Permit for 9 months
  • Must have completed 50 hours of practice driving (10 at night)
  • Must have completed drivers ed
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Sunday-Thursday or 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. Friday-Saturday; may NOT transport more than one passenger under 20 (other than family) for the first year
• Stage III (Unrestricted License)
  • Must be 17 to drive after dark
  • Must be 18 to drive with non-family passengers

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Illinois Drivers License Guide

Indiana

The Indiana graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Learners Permit)
  • Must be 15 with drivers ed, 16 without
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • While holding permit:
  • Must be accompanied at all times by a licensed driver aged 25 years or older; younger if related by blood, marriage or legal status
• Stage II (Probationary License)
  • Must be 16 years, 90 days with drivers ed, 16 years 270 days without
  • Must have held Instructional Permit for 9 months
  • Must have completed 50 hours of practice driving (10 at night)
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive with any passengers for first 6 months except licensed drivers over 25 or immediate family members
• Stage III (Unrestricted License)
  • Must be 18 to drive after dark
  • Must be 16 years, 9 months to drive with non-family passengers (with drivers ed)
  • Must be 17 years, 3 months to drive with non-family passengers (without drivers ed)

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Indiana Drivers License Guide

Iowa

The Iowa graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Instruction Permit)
  • Must be 14
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied at all times by a licensed driver aged 25 years or older; younger if related by blood, marriage or legal status
• Stage II (Intermediate License)
  • Must be 16
  • Must have completed drivers ed
  • Must have held permit for 12 months
  • Must complete 20 hours of practice driving (at least 2 between sunset and sunrise)
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May drive without supervision from 5 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. and at any time with supervision
• Stage III (Full License)
  • Must be 17
  • Must have held Intermediate License for 12 months with no tickets or at-fault accidents
  • Must complete 10 additional hours of practice driving (at least 2 between sunset and sunrise)

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Iowa Drivers License Guide

Kansas

The Kansas graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Instruction Permit)
  • Must be 14
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied at all times by a licensed driver aged 21 years or older
• Stage II (Restricted License)
  • Must be 15 (but less than 16)
  • Must have completed drivers ed
  • Must have held permit for 12 months
  • Must complete at least 25 hours of practice driving
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May drive without supervision to and from work or school and at any time with supervision
  • May NOT transport passengers under age 18 (except family)
• Stage III (Full License)
  • Must be 17
  • Must have held Intermediate License for 6 months or until 17th birthday, whichever comes first

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Kansas Drivers License Guide

Kentucky

The Kentucky graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Permit Phase)
  • Must be 16
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied at all times by a licensed driver aged 21 years or older
  • May NOT drive between midnight and 6 a.m. (except for work/school events and in case of emergency)
• Stage II (Intermediate License Phase)
  • Must have completed drivers ed
  • Must have held permit for 180 days
  • Must have completed 60 hours of practice driving (10 at night)
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive between midnight and 6 a.m. (except for work/school events and in case of emergency)
  • May NOT transport more than one passenger under age 20 (except family)
• Stage III (Full License Phase)
  • Must have held Intermediate License for 180 days

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Kentucky Drivers License Guide

Louisiana

The Louisiana graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Learners License)
  • Must be 15
  • Must have completed drivers ed
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied at all times by a licensed driver aged 21 years or older, 18 if sibling
• Stage II (Intermediate License)
  • Must be 16
  • Must have held permit for 180 days
  • Must have completed 50 hours of practice driving (15 at night)
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. (except for work/school events and in case of emergency) unless supervised
  • May NOT transport more than one passenger under age 21 (except family)
• Stage III (Full or “Class E” License)
  • Must be 17
  • No traffic citations or at-fault accidents in previous 12 months

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Louisiana Drivers License Guide

Maine

The Maine graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Learners Permit)
  • Must be 15
  • Must have completed drivers ed
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied at all times by a driver aged 20 years or older, licensed for at least two years
• Stage II (Intermediate License)
  • Must have held permit for six months
  • Must have completed 70 hours of practice driving (10 at night)
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless supervised
  • May NOT transport passengers except family
• Stage III (Full or Unrestricted License)
  • Must have held Intermediate License for 270 days

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Maine Drivers License Guide

Maryland

The Maryland graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Learners Permit)
  • Must be 15 years, 9 months
  • Must have completed Learners Permit School (if under 16)
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied at all times by a driver aged 21 years or older, licensed for at least three years
• Stage II (Provisional License)
  • Must be 16 years, six months
  • Must have completed drivers ed
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • If under 18
    • May NOT drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless supervised
    • May NOT transport passengers (except family) for the first 151 days unless supervised
• Stage III (Full or Unrestricted License)
  • Automatically issued on 18th birthday

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Maryland Drivers License Guide

Massachusetts

The Massachusetts graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Learners Permit)
  • Must be 16
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied at all times by a driver aged 21 years or older, licensed for at least one year. Permit holders younger than 18 may NOT drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless accompanied by parent or guardian
• Stage II (Junior Operators License)
  • Must be 16 years, six months
  • Must have completed drivers ed
  • Must have held permit for six months
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • Must complete at least an additional 40 hours of supervised, behind-the-wheel driving
  • Parent must participate in 2 hours of instruction on the driver’s education course (unless they have completed one within the past 5 years)

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Massachusetts Drivers License Guide

Michigan

The Michigan graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Level 1 License)
  • Must be 14 years, 9 months
  • Must have completed Learners Permit School (if under 16)
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied at all times by a licensed driver aged 21 years or older
• Stage II (Level 2 License)
  • Must be 16
  • Must have completed drivers ed
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. (except to and from work, authorized activity, or in the event of an emergency) unless supervised
  • May NOT transport more than one passenger (except family)
• Stage III (Level 3 License)
  • Must be 17
  • Must have completed all requirements of Level 1 and 2

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Michigan Drivers License Guide

Minnesota

The Michigan graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Learner Permit)
  • Must be 15
  • Must have completed classroom portion of drivers ed
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied at all times by a licensed driver aged 21 years or older
• Stage II (Provisional License)
  • Must be 16
  • Must have completed driving portion of drivers ed
  • Must have held permit for six months
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • For the first six months:
    • May NOT operate a vehicle carrying more than one passenger under 20 years old that is not a member of their immediate family
    • May NOT drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless supervised by a licensed driver at least 25 years of age or driving to and from work or school
  • For the next six months:
  • May NOT drive with more than three unrelated passengers under age 20
• Stage III (Level 3 License)
  • Must be 18
  • Must have been accident free for 12 months

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Minnesota Drivers License Guide

Mississippi

The Mississippi graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Learner Permit)
  • Must be 15
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied at all times by a licensed driver aged 21 years or older
• Stage II (Intermediate License)
  • Must be 16
  • Must have held permit for twelve months
  • May NOT drive between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. Sunday-Thursday or 11:30 p.m. to 5 a.m. Friday-Saturday unless supervised by a licensed driver at least 25 years of age or when driving to and from work or school
• Stage III (Full License)
  • Must be 16 1/2
  • Must have held Intermediate License for six months
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Mississippi Drivers License Guide

Missouri

The Missouri graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Learner Permit)
  • Must be 15
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied at all times by a driver aged 25 years or older licensed at least three years, 21 if permit holder is at least 16
• Stage II (Intermediate License)
  • Must have held permit for a minimum of 182 days
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. unless supervised by a licensed driver at least 21 years of age or when driving to and from work or school
  • For the first six months:
    • May NOT operate a vehicle carrying more than one unrelated passenger under age 19 unless supervised
  • For the next six months:
    • May NOT drive with more than three unrelated passengers under age 19 unless supervised
• Stage III (Under 21 Full License)
  • Must be 18
  • Must satisfy the requirements for an Intermediate License, including having no alcohol-related offenses or traffic convictions in the last 12 months.
  • Must have a valid intermediate license. Your driving privilege cannot be suspended, revoked, or denied when you apply for a full license.

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Missouri Drivers License Guide

Montana

The Montana graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Learner Permit)
  • Must be 14 1/2 with drivers ed, 16 without
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied at all times by a licensed parent or guardian or other licensed driver authorized by parent or guardian
• Stage II (GDL Restricted License)
  • Must have held permit for one year or until 18th birthday
  • Must have completed 50 hours supervised practice driving (10 hours at night)
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless supervised by a licensed driver at least 21 years of age or when driving to and from work or school
  • For the first six months:
    • May NOT operate a vehicle carrying more than one unrelated passenger unless supervised
  • For the next six months:
    • May NOT drive with more than three unrelated passengers unless supervised
• Stage III (Under 21 Full License)
  • Must be 18 or after successful completion of Stage I and II

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Montana Drivers License Guide

Nebraska

The Nebraska graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Option I, Stage I—School Learner Permit (LPE)
  • Must be 14 but younger than 16
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied at all times by a licensed driver age 21 or older
• Option 1, Stage II—School Permit (SCP)
  • Must be at least 14 years and two months
  • Must complete drivers ed or show proof of 50 hours supervised driving
  • Must pass road skills (driving) test
  • May drive unsupervised to and from school or anytime while supervised
• Option II, Stage I—Learner Permit (LPD)
  • Must be 15
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied at all times by a licensed driver age 21 or older
• Stage III—Provisional Operators Permit (POP)
  • Must be 16
  • Must complete drivers ed or show proof of 50 hours supervised driving
  • Must pass road skills (driving) test
  • Must have held LPE, SCP, or LPD for six months
  • May NOT drive between midnight and 6 a.m. unless supervised by a licensed driver at least 21 years of age or when driving to and from work or school
  • For the first six months, may NOT operate a vehicle carrying more than one unrelated passenger under age 19 unless supervised
• Stage IV (Unrestricted License)
  • Must be 17
  • Must have held POP for one year
  • Must not have accumulated more that 3 driving record points

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Nebraska Drivers License Guide

Nevada

The Nevada graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Instruction Permit)
  • Must be 15 1/2 with drivers ed completed
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied at all times by a driver age 21 or older, licensed at least one year
• Stage II (GDL Restricted License)
• Must be 16
• Must have held permit for six months
• Must have completed 50 hours supervised practice driving (10 hours at night)
• Must have no moving violations or at-fault accidents
• Must pass a road skills (driving) test
• May NOT drive between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless supervised by a licensed driver at least 21 years of age or when driving to and from work or school
• For the first six months:
• May NOT operate a vehicle carrying unrelated passengers unless supervised
• Stage III (Unrestricted or “Class R” License)
• Must be 18 or after successful completion of Stage I and II

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Nevada Drivers License Guide

New Hampshire

The New Hampshire graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Practice Driving)
  • Must be 15 1/2
  • No permit required
  • Must be accompanied at all times by a licensed driver
• Stage II (Youth Operator License)
  • Must be 16
  • Must show 20 hours of practice driving
  • Must complete drivers ed
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m.
  • May NOT operate a vehicle carrying unrelated passengers younger than 25
• Stage III (Unrestricted License)
  • Must be 18 or have held Youth Operator License for 13 months

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time New Hampshire Drivers License Guide

New Jersey

The New Jersey graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Instruction Permit)
  • Must be 16 with drivers ed, 17 without
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied at all times by a driver age 21 or older, licensed at least one year
• Stage II (Probationary License)
  • Must be 17
  • Must have held permit for six months
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
• Stage III (Basic Drivers License)
  • Must practice unsupervised driving for one year

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time New Jersey Drivers License Guide

New Mexico

The New Mexico graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Learners Permit)
  • Must be 15
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must have completed (or be enrolled in) drivers ed
  • Must be accompanied at all times by a driver age 21 or older, licensed at least three years
• Stage II (Provisional License)
  • Must have held permit for six months
  • Must have completed 50 hours supervised practice driving (10 hours at night)
  • Must have a clean driving record in the previous 90 days
  • Must have completed drivers ed
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless supervised by a licensed driver at least 21 years of age or when driving to and from work, school, church event, or emergency
  • May NOT operate a vehicle carrying more than one unrelated passenger unless supervised
• Stage III (Full License)
  • Must successfully complete Stage II
  • Must have a clean driving record in the previous 90 days

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time New Mexico Drivers License Guide

New York

The New York graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Junior Learner Permit)
  • Must be 16
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied at all times by a driver age 21 or older
• Stage II (Junior License)
  • Must have held permit for six months
  • Must have completed 50 hours supervised practice driving (10 hours at night)
  • Must have completed drivers ed or pre-licensing course
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless supervised
  • May NOT drive in New York City at any time and only limited daylight hours in Long Island
  • May NOT operate a vehicle carrying more than one unrelated passenger under 21 unless supervised
• Stage III (Full License)
  • Must be 17 with drivers ed, 18 without

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time New York Drivers License Guide

North Carolina

The North Carolina graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Limited Learner Permit)
  • Must be 15
  • Must have a Driving Eligibility Certificate and Driver’s Education Certificate
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Supervised driving restricted to 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. for the first six months
• Stage II (Limited Provisional License)
  • Must have held permit for 12 months
  • Must have completed 60 hours of supervised practice driving (10 hours at night)
  • Must have no tickets in previous six months
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. except to and from work or school, in emergencies, or for volunteer emergency service unless supervised
• Stage III (Full Provisional License)
  • Must have held Limited Provisional License for six months
  • Must have no tickets in previous six months
  • Must complete 12 additional hours of practice driving

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time North Carolina Drivers License Guide

North Dakota

The North Dakota graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Learner Permit)
  • Must be 14
  • Must pass written (permit) test
• Stage II (Limited Provisional License)
  • Must have held permit for 12 months for a restricted license (under 16) otherwise six months
  • Must have completed 50 hours of supervised practice driving (under 16 only)
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive between 9 p.m. (or sunset, whichever is later) and 5 a.m.
• Stage III (Full Provisional License)
  • Must be 16 unless parents agree to restricted license at 15

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time North Dakota Drivers License Guide

Ohio

The Ohio graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Temporary Permit)
  • Must be 15 1/2
  • Must have completed drivers ed
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied at all times by a licensed driver who is at least 21
• Stage II (GDL)
  • Must have held permit for six months
  • Must have completed 50 hours of supervised practice driving (10 after dark)
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive between midnight and 6 a.m. unless traveling to and from work, school, or church-sponsored event
  • May NOT transport more than one unrelated passenger unless supervised
• Stage III (Full License)
  • May NOT drive between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. for the first 12 months unless traveling to and from work, school, or church-sponsored event

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Ohio Drivers License Guide

Oklahoma

The Oklahoma graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Learner Permit)
  • Must be 15 1/2
  • Must have completed (or be enrolled in) drivers ed
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • May only drive from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. and must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21
• Stage II (Intermediate License)
  • Must have held permit for six months
  • Must have completed 50 hours of supervised practice driving (10 after dark)
  • Must have no traffic citations
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive unsupervised between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless traveling to and from work, school, or church-sponsored event
  • May NOT transport more than one unrelated passenger unless supervised
• Stage III (Full License)
  • Must have held Intermediate License for six months or have turned 18

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Oklahoma Drivers License Guide

Oregon

The Oregon graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Provisional Instruction Permit)
  • Must be 15
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21
• Stage II (Provisional Drivers License)
  • Must be 16
  • Must have held permit for six months
  • Must have completed 100 hours of supervised practice driving, 50 if completed drivers ed
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • First Six Months:
    • May NOT drive with an unrelated passenger under age 20 unless supervised by a licensed driver who is at least 25 years old
    • May NOT drive between midnight and 5 a.m. except to and from work or school unless supervised by a licensed driver who is at least 25 years old
  • Second Six Months:
    • May NOT drive with more than three unrelated passengers under age 20 unless supervised by a licensed driver who is at least 25 years old
    • May NOT drive between midnight and 5 a.m. except to and from work or school unless supervised by a licensed driver who is at least 25 years old
• Stage III (Full License)
  • Must have held Provisional Drivers License for six months or have turned 17

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Oregon Drivers License Guide

Pennsylvania

The Pennsylvania graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Learner Permit)
  • Must be 16
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 (18 if spouse)
• Stage II (Junior License)
  • Must be 16 1/2
  • Must have held permit for six months
  • Must have completed 65 hours of supervised practice driving, 10 after dark
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • Until 18th birthday:
    • May NOT drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. except to and from work, school, or volunteer service unless supervised
  • First Six Months:
    • May NOT drive with more than one unrelated passenger unless supervised
  • Second Six Months:
    • May NOT drive with more than three unrelated passengers unless supervised
• Stage III (Full License)
  • Must have held Junior License for 12 months crash and citation free or have turned 18

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Pennsylvania Drivers License Guide

Rhode Island

The Rhode Island graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Limited Instruction Permit)
  • Must be 16
  • Must complete drivers ed
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 20 with at least five years driving experience
• Stage II (Limited Provisional License)
  • Must be 16 1/2
  • Must have held permit for six months
  • Must have completed 50 hours of supervised practice driving, 10 after dark
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. except to and from work, school, or volunteer service unless supervised
  • May NOT drive with more than one unrelated passenger under age 21 unless supervised
• Stage III (Full Operators License)
  • Must have held Limited Provisional License for 12 months or have turned 18

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Rhode Island Drivers License Guide

South Carolina

The South Carolina graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Beginner Permit)
  • Must be 15
  • Must complete drivers ed
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Between 6 a.m. to midnight, must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21
  • Between midnight and 6 a.m., must be accompanied by any licensed individual listed on the Consent for Minor form
• Stage II (Limited Provisional License)
  • Must be 15 1/2
  • Must have held permit for 180 days
  • Must have completed 40 hours of supervised practice driving, 10 after dark
  • Must have completed drivers ed
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May drive unsupervised from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. (8 p.m. during daylight savings time)
  • May drive with a licensed driver, who is at least 21, from 6 p.m. (8 p.m. during daylight savings time) to midnight.
  • May drive with a licensed individual listed on the Consent for Minor form from midnight to 6 a.m.
  • May NOT drive with more than two unrelated passengers under age 21 unless supervised
• Stage III (Full Operators License)
  • Must have held Limited Provisional License for 12 months

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time South Carolina Drivers License Guide

South Dakota

The South Dakota graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Learner Permit)
  • Must be 14
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied by a licensed driver at least 18 years old
• Stage II (Restricted Permit)
  • Must have held permit for 180 days with drivers ed (275 days without)
  • Must have completed 50 hours of supervised practice driving, 10 after dark and 10 in bad weather
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive with unrelated passengers (unless supervised) for the first six months
  • May NOT drive with more than one unrelated passenger (unless supervised) after the first six months
• Stage III (Full Operators License)
  • Must be 16
  • Must have held Restricted Permit for 12 months

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time South Dakota Drivers License Guide

Tennessee

The Tennessee graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Learner Permit)
  • Must be 15
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied by a licensed driver at least 21 years old
  • May NOT drive between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
• Stage II (Intermediate Restricted License)
  • Must be 16
  • Must have held permit for 180 days
  • Must have no more than 6 driving record points in the previous 180 days
  • Must have completed 50 hours of supervised practice driving, 10 after dark
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive with more than one unrelated passenger (unless supervised)
  • May NOT drive between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m.
• Stage III (Intermediate Unrestricted License)
  • Must be 17
  • Must have held Intermediate Restricted License for 12 months
  • Must have no more than 6 driving record points

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Tennessee Drivers License Guide

Texas

The Texas graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Learner License)
  • Must be 15
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied by a licensed driver at least 21 years old
• Stage II (Provisional License)
  • Must be 16
  • Must have held permit for 180 days
  • Must have completed drivers ed
  • Must have completed 30 hours of supervised practice driving, 10 after dark
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive with more than one unrelated passenger (unless supervised)
  • May NOT drive between midnight and 5 a.m. except to work or school unless supervised
• Stage III (Class C License)
  • Must be 18
  • Must have held Provisional License for 12 months

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Texas Drivers License Guide

Utah

The Utah graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Learner Permit)
  • Must be 15
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied by an approved driving instructor or licensed parent/guardian
• Stage II (Provisional License)
  • Must have held permit for 180 days
  • Must have completed drivers ed
  • Must have completed 40 hours of supervised practice driving, 10 after dark
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive with unrelated passengers (unless supervised)
  • May NOT drive between midnight and 5 a.m. except for work, school, or emergency unless supervised
• Stage III (Full Unrestricted License)
  • Must be 18

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Utah Drivers License Guide

Vermont

The Vermont graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Learners Permit)
  • Must be 15
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied by a licensed parent, driving instructor, or other drivers at least 25 years old
• Stage II (Junior Drivers License)
  • Must be 16
  • Must have held permit for one year
  • Must have completed 40 hours of supervised practice driving, 10 after dark
  • Must have a “clean” driving record for the previous six months
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • For the first three months, may drive supervised or alone
  • For the second three months, may transport immediate family members
  • After six months, no passenger limitations
• Stage III (Full Unrestricted License)
  • Must be 18

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Vermont Drivers License Guide

Virginia

The Virginia graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Learners Permit)
  • Must be 15
  • Must complete drivers ed
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied by a licensed driver at least 21 years old (18 if a family member)
• Stage II (Provisional License)
  • Must be 16
  • Must have held permit for six months
  • Must have completed 50 hours of supervised practice driving, 10 after dark
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • For the first six months, no passengers under 20 (unless supervised)
  • After six months, no more than three passengers under 20 (unless supervised)
  • May NOT drive 1 a.m. to 5 a.m. except to and from work or school or when supervised
• Stage III (Full Unrestricted License)
  • Must be 18

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Virginia Drivers License Guide

West Virginia

The West Virginia graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Instructional Permit)
  • Must be 15
  • Must have current Drivers Eligibility Certificate
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied by a licensed driver at least 21 years old
  • May NOT have more than two other passengers
  • May NOT drive between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m.
• Stage II (Intermediate License)
  • Must be 16
  • Must have current Drivers Eligibility Certificate
  • Must hold permit for previous six months with no accidents or citations
  • Must have completed 50 hours of supervised practice driving, 10 after dark
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • For the first six months, no unrelated passengers under 20 (unless supervised)
  • After six months, no more than one unrelated passenger under 20 (unless supervised)
  • May NOT drive 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. except to and from work, school, church activity, or in an emergency or when supervised
• Stage III (Full Unrestricted License)
  • Must be 18
  • Must have current Drivers Eligibility Certificate
  • Must have held Intermediate License for one year

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time West Virginia Drivers License Guide

Wisconsin

The Wisconsin graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Instruction Permit)
  • Must be 15 1/2
  • Must be enrolled (or have completed) drivers ed
  • Must be enrolled in school
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied by a licensed driver at least 19 years old
  • May NOT drive with unrelated passengers
  • May not drive after dark without parent, guardian, or licensed driver over 25
• Stage II (Probationary License)
  • Must hold permit for previous six months with no accidents or citations
  • Must have completed 30 hours of supervised practice driving, 10 after dark
  • Must have completed drivers ed
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • For the first six months, no unrelated passengers under 20 (unless supervised)
  • After six months, no more than one unrelated passenger under 20 (unless supervised)
  • May NOT drive midnight to 5 a.m. except to and from work, school, or in an emergency, or when supervised
• Stage III (Full Unrestricted License)
  • After nine months of violation-free driving, GDL restrictions are lifted

For a look at the full licensing process, check out our First-Time Wisconsin Drivers License Guide

Wyoming

The Wyoming graduated licensing program breaks down like this:

• Stage I (Learners Permit)
  • Must be 15
  • May need permit to enroll in drivers ed
  • Must pass written (permit) test
  • Must be accompanied by a licensed driver at least 18 years old
• Stage II (Intermediate Permit)
  • Must hold learners permit 10 days
  • Must have completed 50 hours of supervised practice driving, 10 after dark
  • Must pass a road skills (driving) test
  • May NOT drive with more than one unrelated passenger under 18 (unless supervised)
  • May NOT drive 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. except to and from work, school, or in an emergency, or when supervised