As of July 1, 2021, Georgia teens age 16 and 17 are required to complete a Driver Education course in order to obtain their Class D Provisional Driver’s License (i.e., intermediate license). This is a big change, as previously, teens age 17 were not required to complete a Driver Education course in order to earn their intermediate license.
In this post, we’ll explore how driver education works in Georgia, and what Georgia teens can expect when working towards earning their intermediate license. Let’s get started!
How does driver’s licensing work for Georgia teens?
Like other states, Georgia follows a graduated driver license program for teen drivers ages 15 to 18. The program is a three-step process that helps teens prepare for the responsibility of driving. As drivers progress from one step to another, their driving privileges increase and they’re given more responsibility. Along the way, they gain experience and knowledge of the roadway.
Let’s take a look at each step in the process.
Step One: Instructional Permit
You have to be at least 15 years old and pass a written examination to get your instructional permit. When you drive with this permit, you need to have a licensed driver who is at least age 21 in the front passenger seat at all times.
Step Two: Intermediate License
The next step is the intermediate stage. The Class D license is given to drivers between the ages of 16 and 18 who have met the following requirements:
- Have held an instructional permit for at least 12 months.
- Have passed a driving test.
- Have not been convicted of any major traffic violations that resulted in the suspension of your permit.
- For those under the age of 18, you must not be/have been withdrawn from school or have 10 or more unexcused school absences or any conduct infractions.
- Have met the requirements of Joshua’s Law (explained in more detail later in this post!).
Step Three: Full License
You must be at least 18 years old to get a full driver’s license, and you must have held an intermediate license without incurring any major traffic convictions during the previous 12 months.
What is Joshua’s Law?
Joshua’s Law requires Georgia teens age 16 and 17 to complete an approved driver education course in order to receive their intermediate driver’s license. There are a few options for teen drivers to meet the requirement:
- Complete 30 hours of classroom instruction at a certified driving school, 6 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction with a certified driving school, and 40 hours of supervised driving with a parent or guardian, with 6 of the hours at night.
- Complete 30 hours of classroom instruction at a certified driving school, and 40 hours of parent-taught behind-the-wheel training (this includes 40 hours of supervised driving with a parent or guardian).
- Complete 30 hours of online instruction with a certified online program, 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training with a certified school, and 40 hours of supervised driving with a parent or guardian, with 6 of the hours at night.
- Complete 30 hours of online instruction with a certified online program, and 40 hours of parent-taught behind-the-wheel training (this includes 40 hours of supervised driving with a parent or guardian).
You should choose the option that works best for you and your family. An online course is typically the easiest option, as you can complete it from the comfort of your own home!
How can I earn my intermediate license at age 16 or 17 in Georgia?
As we mentioned, teens age 16 or 17 will need to meet Joshua’s Law requirements in order to receive their intermediate license, including completing a driver education course. Here’s what you need to know about how Safe2Drive’s course works:
Once you’ve turned age 18, you can apply for your full license as long as you hold an intermediate license and are free of any major traffic convictions for the previous year.
What should I bring to the DDS Office?
In order to apply for your intermediate license, you’ll need to bring the following items with you to the DDS office:
- Proof of identity, address, Social Security Number, and U.S. citizenship/lawful presence in the U.S.
- Notarized Certificate of Attendance (DDS-1) that has been signed within the last 30 days OR High School Diploma OR GED
- ADAP or eADAP Certificate of Completion.
- Completed application for a driver’s license. The application must be signed by your parent/legal guardian/responsible adult (this only applies to emancipated applicants with court-ordered documentation)/professional driving instructor if you are under the age of 18.
- Proof of completion of the DDS-approved Parent/Teen Driving Guide OR Proof of 6 hours of on-the-road experience with a certified instructor. If you choose to do the 6 hours with a certified instructor, you must complete a cumulative total of at least 40 hours of other driving experience, including 6 hours at night.
- Certificate of Completion from a DDS-approved driver education program (this is required for teens age 16 and 17).
- License fee (you may pay by cash, money order, check, or credit/debit card).
- Valid insurance card and vehicle registration for the vehicle you will use for the road skills test. The vehicle’s tag must not be expired.
After receiving your intermediate license, the final step in the licensing process is earning your full driver’s license!
Online courses are usually more convenient for everyone’s busy schedule. Safe2Drive’s course is mobile and tablet-friendly, so your teen can complete it on the go, or at home! We’ll send you your Certificate of Completion via email so it’s easy to keep track of.
We’ve made sure our online course is educational while also being fun! We’ve included charts, illustrations, videos, and even games! We also provide step-by-step instructions and excellent customer service to make the process as smooth and painless as possible.
Are you ready to register for a Georgia Driver Education course? Click here to get started!