SB 15

This bill lowers the age of eligibility for and increases the duration of a motor

vehicle instruction permit and establishes a minimum age for a motor vehicle

probationary license.

Under current law, DOT may issue an instruction permit to a person who is at

least 15 years and 6 months of age, has passed a knowledge test, and, except for age

or lack of training, is qualified to obtain an operator's license. If the person is under

18 years of age, the person must also be enrolled in a driver education course. Subject

to certain restrictions, the permit authorizes the operation of motor vehicles,

excluding commercial motor vehicles, school buses, motorcycles, motor bicycles, and

mopeds. An instruction permit is valid for 12 months.

Under the bill, a person is eligible for an instruction permit at the age of 15, and

the permit is valid for 18 months.

Under current law, with limited exceptions, a probationary license is issued to

applicants who qualify for an original license and remains in effect for two years from

the date of the licensee's next birthday. During the first nine months following

issuance of a probationary license, a licensee under the age of 18 is generally subject

to restrictions on the operation of “Class D” vehicles, which are automobiles, light

trucks, and mopeds. A person must hold an instruction permit for at least six months

before being eligible for a probationary license. The bill retains this requirement and

provides that DOT may not issue a probationary license to a person who is under the

age of 16.