Millennials are the kids of the future. We want them to grow up to become strong leaders that make positive, life-changing decisions. Unfortunately, these teenagers are the ones whose frontal cortexes are not fully developed until the age of 21 which is the area of the brain where decision-making is located. This means that the choices that teens make while driving are equivalent to a drunk person driving. Provided below are the facts of teen driving that are worth the short read for valuable information.
To reduce the risk of teen car accidents, it is important to follow the Graduated Driver Licensing Law. The CT law follows three stages:
Learner’s Permit
- Minimum age of 16 to obtain a learner’s permit.
- Must have at least 20 out of 25 correct on the multiple-choice test in order to pass.
- May only drive with a licensed driving instructor, a licensed parent/guardian, or a licensed driver who is at least 20 years old and has had a license for over 4 years and has a clean driving record.
Driver’s License for ages 17 and younger
- Must have obtained a learner’s permit for at least 120 days for ones who have enrolled in driving school (180 days for home taught drivers).
- Completion of 30 hours of classroom instruction and 40 hours of on-the-road training with a 2-hour course for a parent/legal guardian.
- Pass a Road Skills Test at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Unrestricted Stage
- Minimum age of 18 years to earn an unrestricted driver license.
- Must obtain an Adult Learner’s permit and hold it for 90 days prior to taking the Road Skills Test.
Studies have found that enrolling this law led to 40% lower fatal crash rates and lower insurance claim rates among young teen drivers covered by the laws. Even though each state has the GDL law in place, it is up to the parents to enforce the most control in order for teens to stay safe on the road.
Enroll in an AARP driving course today for more info on road safety!
