Classification
Arizona has specific laws governing teen drivers to improve safety and support gradual learning through a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system.
Key points:
Minimum Age: Teens can apply for a learner’s permit at 15 years and 6 months old after passing vision and written tests.
Learner’s Permit Restrictions: The permit requires driving only with a licensed adult (at least 21 years old) in the passenger seat. Teens under 16 are prohibited from driving on highways, even with adult supervision.
Supervised Driving: Permit holders must complete at least 30 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night, and hold the permit for at least 6 months before applying for a provisional license.
Provisional License: At age 16, teens who pass the driving test can get a provisional license that allows independent driving but with restrictions:
No driving between midnight and 5 a.m. unless accompanied by a parent/guardian or for work, school, or emergencies.
Passenger limits usually restrict carrying more than one passenger under 18 unless they are family.
Safety: Young drivers lack experience and mature judgment, making them more vulnerable to accidents, especially at night or with distractions.
Legal Accountability: Following GDL laws reduces risks of crashes and legal penalties that can impact a teen’s driving privileges and insurance rates.
Skill Building: The gradual licensing process helps teens develop safe driving habits and gain confidence under supervision before driving independently.
Protecting Others: Restrictions on passengers and night driving reduce distractions and dangers for teen drivers and others on the road.
Why It Matters
Safety: Young drivers lack experience and mature judgment, making them more vulnerable to accidents, especially at night or with distractions.
Legal Accountability: Following GDL laws reduces risks of crashes and legal penalties that can impact a teen’s driving privileges and insurance rates.
Skill Building: The gradual licensing process helps teens develop safe driving habits and gain confidence under supervision before driving independently.
Protecting Others: Restrictions on passengers and night driving reduce distractions and dangers for teen drivers and others on the road.
Why It Matters
What You Can Do
Meet Age and Testing Requirements: Wait until you are old enough and pass all required tests for a permit and license.
Follow Permit Rules: Always drive with a qualified adult during the learner’s permit phase, staying off highways if under 16.
Complete Required Practice: Log supervised driving hours, including night driving, to gain experience.
Adhere to Provisional License Restrictions: Avoid night driving unless allowed, limit passengers as required, and obey all traffic laws.
Take Driver Education Seriously: Attend required safety courses and learn defensive driving skills.
Avoid Risky Behaviors: Never drive distracted, impaired, or recklessly. These increase accident risk and legal trouble.
Communicate with Parents: Keep parents or guardians informed about your driving, practice safe habits, and seek help if unsure about rules.
Respect the Law: Understand that violations lead to fines, points on your record, suspension, and can affect your future driving opportunities.