New Driving Laws for Teens in the Washington, DC Area
Monday July 7, 2008
The Commonwealth of Virginia is making strides to prevent underage drinking and driving. Under new laws in Virginia, drivers younger than 21 who consume any alcohol, even if they are not legally drunk before getting behind the wheel, can be sited with a misdemeanor and a mandatory one-year driver's license suspension, among other punishments.
In October 2008, the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration will begin notifying the parents or guardians of a minor who receives a citation for any moving violation. Also a minor will be required to obtain a learner's permit before they get behind the wheel, even under the supervision of a driving instructor. The permit validation date will be extended and can be valid for up to two years after the date of issuance.
Changes to DC driving laws for teens have not been decided upon, but steps to prevent underage drinking and driving are being considered in the District as well.
What do you think about tougher penalties against teenagers who drink and drive? Are they too strict, not strict enough?
Drivers Licensing Info for the DC Area
Washington, DC Drivers Licenses
Virginia Drivers Licenses
Maryland Teen Driving Laws
In October 2008, the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration will begin notifying the parents or guardians of a minor who receives a citation for any moving violation. Also a minor will be required to obtain a learner's permit before they get behind the wheel, even under the supervision of a driving instructor. The permit validation date will be extended and can be valid for up to two years after the date of issuance.
Changes to DC driving laws for teens have not been decided upon, but steps to prevent underage drinking and driving are being considered in the District as well.
What do you think about tougher penalties against teenagers who drink and drive? Are they too strict, not strict enough?
Drivers Licensing Info for the DC Area
Comments
As the parent of a soon-to-be-driving teen, I applaud the stricter rules. Yes, it’s harder to get your license, and the process is complicated, but the Rookie Driver program has been shown to save lives.
I definitely think teens should be penalized for drinking and driving, since it’s against the law.
My personal (and unpopular) opinion is that our minimum driving age is too low - many other countries don’t permit teens to drive until they turn 18.