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Teen Driver Laws - GDL Program

Tennessee’s Graduated Driver License (GDL) Program is a multi-tiered program designed to ease young novice drivers into full driving privileges as they become more mature and develop their driving skills. By requiring more supervised practice, the State of Tennessee hopes to save lives and prevent tragic injuries. Tennessee’s GDL Program started on July 1, 2001. It places certain restrictions on teens under the age of 18 who have learner permits and driver licenses. The program requires parent/legal guardian involvement, and emphasizes the importance of a good driving record.

Graduated Driver License Guidelines & Requirements

  • Level 1: Learner Permit (PD)

Requirements:

  • 15 years old
  • Vision Exam
  • Knowledge Test
  • SF-1010 School Form
  • Parent Signature
  • Proof of U.S. Citizenship/Lawful Permanent Residency

Issued For: 12 months*

Restrictions:

  • Accompanied by licensed driver 21+ in front seat
  • No driving between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
  • Seat belts mandatory for driver, front seat occupants, and passengers under 18 (child restraint devices for 9 & under)
  • All cell phone use prohibited

    

Level 2: Learner Permit (PD)

Requirements:

  • 15 years old
  • 16 years old
  • Valid PD held for 180 days
  • SF-1256 Form certifying 50 hours driving experience (must include 10 hours at night)
  • Pass Driving Test
  • Cannot have 6 or more points in the last 180 days

Issued For: Until age 21

Restrictions:

  • One passenger in car
  • No driving between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m.
  • Seat belts mandatory for driver, front seat occupants, and passengers under 18 (child restraint devices for 9 & under)
  • All cell phone use prohibited

 

 

Level 4: Intermediate Unrestricted (IU)

Requirements:

  • 17 years old
  • Valid IR for 1 year • Must not have accumulated 6 or more points on driving record, an at-fault accident or a 2nd seat belt conviction. (Note: Conviction of 2nd seat belt violation adds 90 days waiting to the IR. )

Issued For: Until age 21

Restrictions:

  • Seat belts mandatory for driver, front seat occupants, and passengers under 18 (child restraint devices for 9 & under)
  • All cell phone use prohibited
 
 

Level 4: Regular Class D Drivers License

Requirements: 18 years old

Issued For: Until age 21 (“Under 21” indicator will remain)

Restrictions:

  • Seat belts mandatory for driver, front seat occupants, and passengers under 18 (child restraint devices for 9 & under)
  • All cell phone use prohibited

The procedures for obtaining a driver license for those under the age of 18 are covered in Section A-3 of the Comprehensive Driver Manual on the State Department of Safety website. Review Section A-3 of the Comprehensive Driver Manual for additional information on the Graduated Driver License Program.

In 2021, over 68,000
crashes occurred
involving teen drivers.

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Reduce TN Crashes is a traffic safety awareness and awards program for High School age students aimed at reducing crashes through activity and education. Sponsored by the Tennessee Highway Safety Office.
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