Getting your first driver's license is an exciting milestone for a teenager. Your teen has probably been counting down for months until he is able to take the first step. With the Alabama Graduated Driver Licensing Program, the path to an unrestricted license comes in stages. It is important for both parents and teens to know what to expect along this journey.
Stage I – Learning to Drive
Teens can move into this stage when they turn 15 years old. While taking a driver's education course is not mandatory, a driving school in Alabama can help your teen learn the rules of the road and to provide practice in a safe environment. These classes include both classroom learning and time spent behind the wheel.
To get a learner's permit, your teen will need to take a written test. There is even an online practice test to help your teen become comfortable with the testing format. You will need to go to the local driver's license office and provide an original birth certificate and social security card. You will also need to provide proof of enrollment in school before taking the written test. There is also a testing fee and licensing fee.
Once your teen passes the test, he or she will receive a learner's permit that is valid for four years. He or she can drive as long as someone is in the front seat that is at least 21 years of age.
Your teen will need to log at least 30 hours of driving time, which is covered if he or she takes a driver's education class. This is required before moving on to stage two.
Stage II – Provisional License
Your teen can move into the next stage once he or she is 16 years old. This is a restricted license that he or she can receive after 30 hours of supervised driving. You will need to take your teen back to the local office with the same documentation as before, along with the Graduated Driver License form that has been signed showing the required hours of driving. You will also need proof of car registration and insurance.
Once your teen passes the driving test, he or she is given the restricted license. This must be for at least six months and until he or she is 17 years old. Your teen may not drive alone between midnight and 6 am with this license. It is also against the law to have more than one other person outside of immediate family in the car.
Stage III – Unrestricted License
Your teen can get this license once he or she reaches the age of 17 and has had the provisional license for six months. This allows the person to drive as an adult with no restrictions.
Getting a driver's license in Alabama is a step-by-step process. This is done to ensure that the teen has the knowledge and experience to make good driving decisions when left alone behind the wheel.