Navigating the Road to Driving Independence: Georgia’s Graduated Driving Program
Understanding the Graduated Driving Program
The Graduated Driving Program in Georgia is designed for teen drivers aged 15 to 18 years old. It consists of three distinct stages, each with specific requirements and restrictions:
Stage 1: Learner’s Permit
The first step in the process is obtaining a learner’s permit. During this stage, the teen driver must complete a minimum of 40 hours of supervised practice driving, including 6 hours of night driving. Additionally, they must hold the learner’s permit for at least 12 months before progressing to the next stage.
Stage 2: Provisional License (Class D)
After meeting the requirements of the learner’s permit stage, the teen driver can apply for a provisional license, also known as a Class D license. This stage comes with certain restrictions, such as:
- Prohibited from driving between midnight and 6 a.m. (with some exceptions)
- Limited to carrying no more than three non-family passengers under the age of 21
- Prohibited from using any wireless communication devices while driving
The provisional license must be held for at least 12 consecutive months before advancing to the final stage.
Stage 3: Full Driver’s License (Class C)
Upon successfully completing the provisional license stage and reaching the age of 18, the teen driver can obtain a full driver’s license, also known as a Class C license. This license grants them the same privileges and responsibilities as any other licensed driver in Georgia.
Common Causes of Teen Driver Accidents
While the Graduated Driving Program aims to reduce accidents, it’s essential to be aware of the top causes of accidents involving teenage drivers:
- Inexperience – an immature driver does not know what to do.
- Distracted driving – this includes visual and manual distractions, the driver’s eyes are off the road due to cell phone or other screen usage.
- Speeding and reckless driving
- Drinking and driving
- Failure to wear seatbelts
By understanding these risk factors, parents and teens can work together to develop safe driving habits and minimize potential dangers on the road.
Legal Assistance for Traffic Violations
Despite the best efforts, accidents or traffic violations may still occur. If your teen driver finds themselves facing a speeding or traffic ticket, our team of experienced traffic attorneys is well-versed in handling successful traffic and speeding ticket violation cases in Georgia Traffic Courts for those under 21. We understand the unique challenges faced by young drivers and are committed to providing the necessary legal support and guidance. As your teen embarks on the journey towards driving independence, remember that patience, guidance, and a commitment to safety are crucial. By following the Graduated Driving Program and seeking professional assistance when needed, you can help ensure a smoother transition to responsible and confident driving.
Contact our office if you do need legal assistance, 404-315-9936, the consultation is free.
