Graduated Driver's License Programs

The AAFP supports graduated driver's licensing programs as an approach to help reduce the incidence of motor vehicle related injuries and fatalities. While recognizing the need for variances by state, legislation for graduated licensing should minimally contain the following elements:

• Basic learner's permit conditions, to require a minimum age of 16 and mandatory holding period of at least 12 months. Include required classroom (in person or online) and behind-the-wheel instruction.
• A minimum of six months without an accident or traffic offense while on a provisional license before advancement to an unrestricted license.
• A limit of zero or one young passenger with adult supervision for individuals under the age of 18.
• Curfew during provisional licensure to restrict nighttime driving between 10 PM and 5 AM or longer.
• Physical distinction between provisional and unrestricted license identification.
• Zero blood alcohol concentration allowed during the provisional licensure state.

"Use and Lose" provisions should be added to state graduated driver’s license programs to address illicit and illegal drug use, in addition to alcohol use while driving. Implementing accommodations for drivers with adaptive needs, may address discrimination against ableism. (1995) (September 2022 COD)