Georgia Driver’s License Requirements for Drivers Under 21
In Georgia, obtaining a driver’s license is an important milestone for young people. However, for drivers under the age of 21, there are specific requirements and restrictions that must be followed in order to obtain and maintain a Georgia driver’s license. In this article, we will explore the details of what it takes for young drivers to get behind the wheel in the state of Georgia.
To begin with, in order to apply for a Georgia driver’s license, individuals must be at least 16 years old. For drivers under the age of 18, there are additional requirements that must be met. These include completing a certified driver education course, having a learner’s permit for at least one year, and completing at least 40 hours of supervised driving with at least 6 hours of night driving.
Once these requirements are met, drivers under the age of 18 can apply for a Class D driver’s license. This license allows young drivers to operate a motor vehicle unsupervised, but with some restrictions. For example, drivers with a Class D license are not allowed to have more than one passenger under the age of 21 who is not an immediate family member in the vehicle with them. They are also not allowed to use any wireless communication devices while driving, such as cell phones or tablets.
Additionally, drivers under the age of 18 with a Class D license are subject to a graduated driver’s license program. This program imposes restrictions on driving hours and passengers in order to help young drivers gain experience and reduce the risk of accidents. For example, drivers under the age of 18 with a Class D license are not allowed to drive between the hours of midnight and 5 a.m. unless they are accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. They are also not allowed to have more than three passengers under the age of 21 who are not immediate family members in the vehicle with them.
In addition to these restrictions, drivers under the age of 18 with a Class D license are also required to adhere to Georgia’s zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving. This means that drivers under the age of 21 with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.02% or higher can be charged with a DUI, even if they are below the legal limit of 0.08% for drivers over the age of 21.
For drivers under the age of 21 who are caught driving under the influence, the consequences can be severe. In addition to fines, license suspension, and potential jail time, young drivers may also be required to complete an alcohol and drug education program and community service. These penalties are designed to deter underage drinking and driving and protect young drivers and others on the road.
Overall, obtaining and maintaining a Georgia driver’s license for drivers under the age of 21 comes with a unique set of requirements and restrictions. By following the rules and regulations set forth by the state, young drivers can gain the experience and skills necessary to become safe and responsible drivers. Remember, safety is always the top priority when it comes to driving, no matter your age.
