Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers | August 26, 2024 | Car Accidents
Like many other states, New York has adopted the graduated driver’s license model that slowly introduces the responsibilities and benefits of driving to young drivers. Young drivers are involved in more auto accidents than any other age group. A graduated license system helps keep them safer.
The first year after getting a learner’s permit is often the most dangerous. New drivers are still building confidence and skill. In New York State, graduated driver licensing (GDL) has decreased auto crashes involving 16- and 17-year-old drivers by 80%.
Because of GDL, the legal driving age in New York is technically three different ages: 16, 16.5, and 17.
Phase One: Junior Permit
New York residents are eligible to apply for a junior driving permit, also known as a learner’s permit, at the age of 16. They must provide proof of identification, complete the DMV form MV-44, and pass a written test and an eye test.
Restrictions on drivers holding a junior permit include the following:
- Driving is allowed only under adult supervision
- Only a supervising driver can sit in the front seat
- Only one passenger under the age of 21 is allowed if a supervising driver is not a parent or guardian
- Every passenger must wear a seat belt or use the correct child restraints
Restrictions are for the safety of the driver and others who share the road, including pedestrians. Certain roadways are off-limits, including but not limited to any tunnel or bridge under the jurisdiction of the Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority.
Phase Two: Junior License
Within a minimum of six months, a phase one driver can qualify to apply for a junior license. To move to phase 2, a young driver must take a pre-licensing course and complete 50 hours of supervised driving. Fifteen of those hours must be after sunset. Once they have completed the DMV form MV-262, the driver can schedule and take the road test.
Restrictions on the junior license include the following:
- Only one passenger under 21 is allowed if no supervising driver is in the car
- Every passenger must use proper restraints
- Driving between the hours of 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. is restricted unless for authorized activities
- No driving as part of employment (e.g., making deliveries)
Driving a car, truck, or any other motor vehicle within New York City is prohibited with a junior license.
Phase 3: Unrestricted License
Anyone holding a junior license after their 18th birthday will receive an unrestricted (adult) license in the mail. Qualifying teens can apply for an unrestricted license at 17 if they complete an approved driver’s education course and receive a certificate of completion.
A teen must surrender their MV-285 to receive a full license. Once they have earned a full license, teen drivers are subject to all the same laws and responsibilities of older drivers.
More To Consider
Driving privileges may be limited geographically depending on where you live in New York. Those holding a junior permit or license may not legally drive out of state. Drivers of all ages are subject to the laws and restrictions of each state they are driving in. Make sure to check on state restrictions before getting behind the wheel.
Each phase of getting a New York driver’s license requires different fees. Some New York residents must also pay a Metropolitan Commuter Transportation District fee to maintain a junior permit or license.
Driving Safely In New York
The process of getting a driver’s license is exciting and a little stressful. It may seem disappointing to wait so long before having full driving privileges, but the GDL system helps teens gain confidence as drivers. With a little patience and a lot of practice, young drivers can start enjoying their time behind the wheel before they know it.
Contact Our Car Accident Law Firm in New York City
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Manhattan, NY, and need legal help, contact our New York City car accident lawyers at Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation. We also serve in Brooklyn and the Bronx.
Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers – New York City Office
100 Wall St 24th Floor
New York, NY 10005
(212) 514-5007
Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers – Bronx Office
1578 Williamsbridge Rd suite 3b
Bronx, NY 10461
(212) 514-5007
(917) 905-2339
Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers – Brooklyn Office
32 Court St #704
Brooklyn, NY 11201
(212) 514-5007
(917) 920-7332