GDL Law – New Teen Driving Law: Frequently Asked Questions
Revised January 24, 2007
The Ohio Teen Driver Coalition has compiled the following list of Frequently
Asked Questions (FAQs) about the new GDL Law, Sub HB 343 that was signed
into law on Jan. 4. 2007.
WHAT IS THE NEW LAW?
Answer: The new law will require the following:
- Adds a passenger limit (no more than one non-family member) for
16-year-olds;
- Extends the night-time driving limitation to midnight to 6 a.m.
for 16-year-olds;
- Requires children between 4 and 15 years of age to be restrained
in either an approved child restraint system or in a safety belt.
WHEN DOES THE NEW LAW GO IN EFFECT?
Answer: The new law goes into effect on April 6, 2007.
CAN A 15 ½-YEAR-OLD GET A TEMPORARY LEARNER’S
PERMIT?
Answer: Yes, the new law does not change the age for
a learner’s permit. It stays the same, 15 ½.
HOW DOES THIS NEW LAW AFFECT 16-YEAR-OLDS WHO HAVE OBTAINED A PROBATIONARY
LICENSE?
Answer: The new law limits passengers for 16-year-olds
to one not counting family members. It also changes the nighttime driving
curfew for 16-year-olds to midnight to six a.m.
WHAT DOES A “PROBATIONARY LICENSE MEAN? IS THIS THE SAME AS A
“TEMPORARY LICENSE”? IS THIS A PART OF THE NEW LAW?
Answer: The term probationary license previously existed
and reflects the status of the driver as being under age 18, when full
licensure, without any restrictions, begins. It is not the same as a temporary
license.
I HAVE A CHILD THAT WILL BE 17 WHEN SUB HOUSE BILL 343 GOES INTO EFFECT.
SOMETIMES HE WORKS PAST 1 A.M. DOES HE NEED A NOTE IN ORDER TO LEGALLY
DRIVE HOME FROM WORK AT THAT TIME? WHO SUPPLIES THE NOTE, THE PARENT
OR THE EMPLOYER?
Answer: Yes, he will need a note to work past 1 a.m.
A note from the employer is what the law specifies.
HOW DOES THE NEW LAW AFFECT DRIVERS EDUCATION CLASSES WITH MORE THAN
ONE TEEN IN A CAR?
Answer: As long as a certified driving instructor is
present, there is no effect on Drivers Education.
