State of Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles

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Driving Restrictions for 16 and 17 Year Olds

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Passenger

Only a parent, legal guardian or qualified trainer for the duration of the permit.  Parents or guardian may accompany the instructor. 

Curfew

No curfew, but must be accompanied by a qualified trainer.

Seatbelts

All passengers in vehicle must use permanently installed seat belts.

Cell phones, etc.

May not use cell phones (even if hands-free) or other mobile electronic devices while driving.  This includes any hand-held computer or other device with a video display.

Driver's License Restrictions for 16/17 Year Olds:

Passenger

During the first six months the newly licensed
driver may not have any passengers in the vehicle
except for:

  • Licensed driving instructor; or
  • Parents or legal guardian, at least one of whom holds a valid driver license; or 
  • Person providing instruction who is at least 20 years old, has held a license for at least 4 years with no suspensions during the last 4 years

For the second six months, may drive with the above people or may also drive with immediate family (e.g., brothers, and sisters).

*See exemptions below

Curfew

Until 18th birthday, may not drive between hours of 11PM – 5AM unless it is for:

*See exemptions below

Seatbelts

Until 18th birthday, all passengers in vehicle must use permanently installed seat belts.

Cell phones, etc.

Until 18th birthday, may not use cell phones (even if hands-free) or other mobile electronic devices while driving. This includes any hand-held computers or other device with a video display.

*Passenger/Curfew Exemptions:

The passenger and curfew restrictions do not apply to:

  • active members of a volunteer fire company or department who are responding to, or returning from, an emergency or carrying out duties.
  • active members of a volunteer ambulance service or company who are responding to, or returning from, an emergency or carrying out duties.
  • active members of medical service organization who are responding to, or returning from, an emergency or carrying out duties.
  • assigned driver in a Safe Ride program.

Motorcycle Restrictions for 16/17 Year Olds

Passenger

·         For first 6 months, no passengers.

Motorcycle Restrictions for 18 Year Olds and Older

Passenger

·         For first 3 months, no passengers.

Additional Restriction for 16/17-Year-Old Permit/License Holders:

May not operate any public service vehicle, commercial motor vehicle or vanpool vehicle.