Ohio

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1/8/07-Gov. Bob Taft signed a bill into law restricting when a teen can be behind the wheel and how many people can be in the vehicle with them.
The new law, previously HB343, restricts driving for those under age 18 with a temporary instruction permit. It outlaws driving between midnight and 6 a.m. - a restriction now in place for those 17 and under.
Teens with probationary driver's licenses between 17 and 18 years old will be prohibited from driving between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. Probationary license holders are exempted from the time restrictions if they are accompanied by a parent or guardian.
The law also forbids drivers under 17 from having more than one passenger who is not a family member.
A provision was dropped from the bill that would have made teens wait six more months before they can drive.

7/20/06-The House approved a bill this spring that would restrict when a teen can be behind the wheel and how many people can be in the vehicle with them.
Sponsored by Rep. Tom Raga, R-Deerfield, HB343 would restrict driving for those under age 18 with a temporary instruction permit. It would outlaw driving between midnight and 6 a.m. – a restriction now in place for those 17 and under.
Teens with probationary driver’s licenses between 17 and 18 years old would be prohibited from driving between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. Probationary license holders are exempted from the time restrictions if they are accompanied by a parent or guardian.
The bill also would forbid drivers under 17 from having more than one passenger who is not a family member.
A provision was dropped from the bill that would have made teens wait six more months before they can drive.
It is awaiting assignment to a committee in the Senate.
For bill status, call (614) 466-8842. In Ohio, call 1-800-282-0253.

Click here to read the 2005 legislative updates for HB343.