City Court

Effective July 1, 2006 there will be some changes to the Graduated Driver’s License Law.
WHO: Anyone under the age of 18 that does not currently hold a driver’s license or has not applied for a license or been issued a permit before July 1, 2006.

STEP ONE-- INSTRUCTION PERMIT (Traffic Education Learner’s License)

WHEN: Starts with instruction permit obtained in a state-approved driver education program as early as 14 ½ or without driver education as early as age 16.

HOW LONG: Minimum of six months.

CONDITIONS: 1. 50 hours of supervised driving—10 hours must be at night. 2. Supervision to be provided by a licensed parent/guardian. 3. Each occupant must wear a seatbelt. 4. Remain free from traffic violations or alcohol/drug offenses.

STEP TWO—RESTRICTED LICENSE

WHEN: Starts with successful completion of Step One—Instruction Permit, parent/guardian certification of no alcohol/drug offenses, and 50 hours of supervised driving practice.

HOW LONG: One year

CONDITIONS: 1. Each occupant must wear a seatbelt. 2. May not drive between 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m., some exceptions may apply. (EXCEPTIONS to night driving restrictions include emergencies; travel to and from school, church or work, and farm related activities.) 3. For the first six months may have only one passenger, more allowed if they are family members or supervised by a licensed driver age 18 or older. 4. For the second six months may have up to three passengers, more allowed if they are family members or supervised by a licensed driver age 18 or older.

Penalty for Step Two Violations

First Offense: Not less than 20 hours or more than 60 hours of community service.

Second Offense: Suspension of driver’s license for six months.

STEP THREE—FULL PRIVILEGE DRIVER’S LICENSE

When: Upon successful completion of Steps One and Two or reach age 18, whichever comes first.

For more information including how GDL applies to motorcycles see the GDL bill at http://data.opi.state.mt.us/bills/2005/BillPdf/SB0104.pdf.