Act 81: Common Questions About Pennsylvania's Junior Driver Law
Act 81 of 2011 was passed to help junior drivers receive more comprehensive training and lower distractions through limiting the number of passengers they carry. Here are answers to a few common questions about the new law:
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I have my learner's permit. How many hours must I drive before I get my license? Learner's permit holders under 18 years of age must have supervised, behind-the-wheel skill building for a total of 50 to 65 hours. Ten hours must be dedicated to nighttime driving and five hours must be dedicated to driving in poor weather conditions.
How many passengers can I have? During the first 6 months of obtaining their junior license, junior driver license holders may not have more than one passenger under the age of 18, who is not an immediate family member, unless they are accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. If they are not convicted of a driving violation or not found partially or fully responsible for a reportable crash after 6 months, they can have up to three passengers under the age of 18 without a parent or legal guardian present.
Do I need to wear my seatbelt? YES. Drivers and occupants in a vehicle must wear a properly adjusted and fastened seatbelt. Children under the age of 8 must be in a securely fastened child restraint system.
Have More Questions? Check out the Act 81 Fact Sheet on PennDOT's website.
