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Teen driving

Every year, thousands of new drivers in Connecticut get their license to operate a motor vehicle and take to the roads for the first time. Statistically, younger drivers (under 25) are more likely than older drivers to be involved in fatal crashes. While crashes sometimes result from simple inexperience, most fatal crashes are caused by illegal and preventable behavior such as speeding and driving impaired. 

Through strict laws and regulations, as well as numerous education initiatives, Connecticut is focused on reducing teen fatalities on our roadways.

By the numbers

3.5% of CT drivers are 19 and younger (2021).
There were 153 fatal crashes involving teens in 2021 in CT:

• 36.8% involved speeding
• 17.4% involved reckless driving
• 15.5% involved aggressive driving/road rage
• 14.8% involved drug or alcohol impairment
• 12.3% involved improper lane
• 5.2% involved distracted driving

Laws and penalties

• For the first 6 months after obtaining a driver license, drivers may only drive with parents or legal guardians at least one of whom holds a valid driver license, a licensed driving instructor or an instructor who has held a license for at least 4 years with no suspensions.
• For the second 6 months, drivers may also drive with immediate family members.
• Until 18, drivers may not drive between the hours of 11 pm – 5 am unless it is for employment, school, religious activities or medical necessity.
• Until 18, drivers may not use cell phones (even hands-free) or other mobile electronic devices while driving.
• Drivers must be 18 to drive at night.
• Penalties for failure to comply with the above regulations vary and can include immediate loss of license or suspension.

Teen driving facts

• Fatal crashes among teen drivers spike in the summer months.
• 36.8% of fatal crashes involving drivers aged 20 and younger took place between July and September (2017-2021)
• 61.1% of fatal crashes involving teens occurred at night, between 6pm and 2:59am (2017-2021)

Drive to save lives – what we’re doing

CTDOT joined a teen safe driving task force with the CT Department of Motor Vehicles and other community partners. Together, we created a statewide Teen Underage Drinking campaign, "Underage Drinking Destroys." The campaign, targeting both teens and their parents, is seen and heard by millions of Connecticut residents every year. It expresses just what families can lose if teens fail to drive safely.

• Advertising includes television, radio, internet, billboards and bus panels.
• To supplement paid advertising, we garner significant press coverage through frequent press conferences and news releases.
• Public outreach at sporting and concert venues, health and safety fairs and civic organizations reaches the public in person.
• HSO leaders also work with state legislators to promote stronger laws governing teen driving.

Not my kid

Most parents don't think it can ever happen to their child. This PSA helps to open their eyes to the real possibility it could be "my kid."

Drive to save lives – what you can do