Teenage Drivers Permit!?

Avis de J.J. / J.J's Advice

It really depends where you're from, and I don't know specifically about Californian law.

Speaking generally, at 16 you take a theory test, and get your learner's permit. A learner's permit allows you to drive only for the purposes of learning, with an adult 25 years or older, holding a full license (usually a parent or driving instructor).
After a certain period of time (usually 6-12 months), you will take a practical driving exam, and if you pass, you'll get your license which you can then use to drive wherever you want, school or anywhere.
Some places first issue a "probationary license" which is valid for two years, and has certain restrictions, which may include zero-tolerance for DUI or moving violations, daytime driving only, limit on number of peers/passengers allowed in car, etc. This is generally kept for a period of two years, or until the driver turns 25.

As to the kids at your school who drive a car, this is certainly possible. Most kids turn 16 in grade 10, and could therefore get their license, and if they so chose, drive to school.

Looking at California-specific rules, I can see that you can obtain what's called a "provisional license" at age 15.5 after completing written exams on driving rules.

"Provisional Driving Restrictionsâ€”You must be accompanied and supervised by a licensed parent, guardian or other licensed driver 25 years of age or older or a licensed or certified driving instructor when you:
Transport passengers under 20 years of age at any time, for the first twelve months.
Drive between 11 pm and 5 am for the first twelve months.

To determine if these restrictions apply to you, look at the date on your driver license. The date printed just to the left of your photograph is the date these restrictions begin. The new restrictions apply for 12 months following this date. For example: If the date on your license is May 7, 2005, you will have the above restrictions through May 7, 2006. Violation of either restriction can result in a fine and/or community service.

Persons under 18 may not be employed to drive a motor vehicle. When you turn 18 years of age, the provisional part of your license ends. You may continue to drive as an adult using your photo license, which will expire on your 5th birthday after the date you applied.
Exceptions to Restrictions

When reasonable transportation is not available and it is necessary for you to drive, the law grants the following exceptions for minors to drive between 11 pm and 5 am or to transport an immediate family member unaccompanied and unsupervised.

The law allows the following exceptions when reasonable transportation is not available and it is necessary for you to drive. A signed note must be kept in your possession for any of these exceptions explaining the necessity and the date when the driving necessity will end (except emancipated minors).

Medical necessity when reasonable transportation alternatives are inadequate. The note must be signed by your physician, and contain the diagnosis and probable date of recovery.

Schooling or school-authorized activity. The note must be signed by your school principal, dean, or his/her designee.

Employment necessity and the need to operate a vehicle as part of your employment. The note must be signed by your employer verifying employment.

Your necessity or the necessity of an immediate family member. The note must be signed by your parent or legal guardian.
If you are an emancipated minor, no documentation is needed. However, you must have already declared yourself emancipated and provided DMV with Proof of Financial Responsibility (SR 1P) in lieu of your guarantorsâ€™ signatures."

So it looks like California driving laws for minors are pretty lax. Although I couldn't find any direct references, I infer from the name of the license that it's only valid within the state of California.

kumst

no, you can't driver alone until you're fully licensed. then after you get your license you can't driver with anyone but your parents for 6 months (siblings if you have a note from your parents). Don't try it, cops love pulling over young kids just for fun. If you don't wait the few months until you're fully licensed you may not get your license until your 18 if you get caught driving alone with just a learner's permit.

St N

No idea on California, but in most cases, if you only have a learner permit, then you will need an experienced driver in the front passenger seat and there may even be a requirement that the person be of a certain age. A signed note isn't going to cut it, but maybe you have an older sibling who could ride with you to school and then carry on to where ever s/he is going.

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