What is a provisional driver’s license?
A provisional license is a driving permit that includes special conditions. Also known as a provisional instruction permit or learner’s permit.
As you may already know, the driver’s license is a document through which a person is authorized to drive vehicles on public roads.
Generally, each country or state has its own criteria for issuing a driver ‘s license or permit .
In this article we will explain what a provisional driver’s license is and the requirements you must meet to obtain one.
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What is a provisional driver’s license or Learners Permit: frequently asked questions
1. At what age can I get a provisional driver’s license?
In the United States, this type of license is only issued to people who are between 15 ½ and 18 years of age.
Although youth can legally drive alone after the age of 16, they must have held a provisional driver’s license for the previous six months.
2. What can I do with a provisional driver’s license?
A provisional driver’s license allows you to drive accompanied by an adult 25 years of age or older who has a valid license.
Check with your state, but most provisional licenses include restrictions such as:
- Limits for passengers under the age of 20 in the car for the first year
- Curfews, such as not being able to drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. (there are exceptions for work reasons).
Read also: What is motor vehicle registration (MVR)?
IMPORTANT: Not obeying the restrictions can have serious consequences, such as fines, revocation of the provisional license and suspension of the moment in which you can obtain your permanent license.
How do you get a provisional license?
You must be at least 15 1/2 years old, have completed a driver’s education class, and have obtained your instruction permit.
To get your provisional license, you will need to go to your local DMV office and complete an application;
agree to comply with drug or alcohol testing requests (this is agreed upon by signing the application), and pass a vision test.
Depending on your state, you may be able to apply online.
Do I need my parent’s signature to get a Learners Permit?
Yes, the signatures of both parents are required on the provisional permit application. By signing that document, your parents will be financially responsible for you.
If you have not completed your driving training, you will also need your driving instructor’s signature.
Read also: Tips to clean your driving record
What does the DMV require to issue a provisional driver’s license?
- Your full legal name.
- Social Security number.
- Birth certificate or certified copy of your birth certificate.
- Proof of residency (a document issued by the school, medical or insurance documents, a paycheck or employment document if you work).
- Security test.
- Proof that you have completed a driver’s education test or are enrolled in a program that includes driver training.
- Successful completion of the driver’s knowledge test.
