What You Need to Know about the New York Graduated Driver’s License Program
The Graduated Driver’s License (GDL) program has been adopted by many states. However, the restrictions and specific permissions vary greatly in each one. In New York, the three-stage program begins when the teen turns 16 and ends with full privileges at age 17 or 18.
The Learner’s Permit
New drivers can take the vision and written knowledge test when they turn 16. The permit is held for at least six months during which time the driver is required to accumulate 50 hours or more of road experience with 15 of those hours being driven during the night.
The new driver is required to have supervision anytime they drive, however, certain areas in New York have specific restrictions including –
- No driving in New York City unless accompanied by a driving instructor in a vehicle with dual controls and only between the hours of 5 a.m. and 9 p.m.
- Between the hours of 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. the permit holder must be accompanied by a driver age 21 or older who is licensed in New York.
- When driving at night between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m., the permit holder must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or driving instructor.
- No more than one passenger can be under the age of 21 unless they are immediate family members.
The Intermediate License
When the new driver is 16 years and six months, and they have had their permit for at least six months, they can apply for their intermediate license. While operating on a restricted license, the driver –
- May not drive in New York City for any reason
- Can only drive in Upstate counties without supervision from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.; can only drive alone between the hours of 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. if they are going to or from school or work.
- Can operate a vehicle on Long Island anytime there have a parent or guardian in the vehicle with them; or when they are going to or from school; or when they are doing farm work. They can only travel alone to and from work if it is between the hours of 5 a.m. and 9 p.m.
- Can have no more than one passenger who is under the age of 21 unless they are a member of their immediate family.
Intermediate license holders are eligible for full privileges when they are 17 if they completed driver education or 18 if they have not.