The day you dreaded is fast approaching. Not only is your baby growing up but he’s spreading his wings. He’s nearly ready for the first rite of passage into independence: the learner’s permit. So what do you do now? North Carolina and Virginia each have different laws, so you’ll want to check your state’s specifics with the Division of Motor Vehicles. In this two-part blog, we’ll look at some of the requirements for a learner’s permit for each state.
Virginia
In the Old Dominion, learner’s permit regulations are fairly straightforward. Your teenager must be at least 15 and 6 months of age to be eligible, and you must consent in writing. There is a vision test and your child must pass the two-part knowledge exam. There are some driving restrictions as well. Your child must be accompanied by a licensed driver 21 or older, or an immediate family member 18 or older. A curfew makes it illegal for anyone under 18 to drive between the hours of 12 am and 4 am, with certain exceptions. Also, use of an electronic communications device while driving (even hands-free devices) is prohibited.
To qualify for a full driver’s license, your teen must log 45 hours behind the wheel and be at least 16 years and 3 months old. There is a court ceremony that you must attend with your child after which your child will receive the actual driver’s license. The courts have broad powers to revoke the license, however, for driving infractions, other legal troubles, or a child quitting school.
In our next blog, we’ll have a primer for learner’s permits in North Carolina. In the meantime, give us a call to talk about insurance for your new driver.
