11/29/07-Rep. Joe Micon, D-West Lafayette, is preparing legislation to toughen teen driving restrictions.
Indiana law now allows teens to obtain a learner’s permit at age 15. A probationary license can be obtained at 16 years and one month. A regular license is available three months later.
Micon wants young drivers to wait a little longer to get behind the wheel. He is pursuing legislation that would make teens wait until they are 15 years and six months to get a learner’s permit. Probationary licenses could be awarded to driver’s education graduates at 16 years and six months. Without the class, teens could get a permit at 16 and a license at 17.
Another provision sought by Micon would require teens with permits to complete 50 hours of supervised practice driving.
They also would need to carry a probationary license for six months, instead of the current three months. During the first three months, teen drivers could not transport other teens. After that, one minor passenger would be allowed during the probationary period.
Cell phones also would be prohibited for young drivers.
In addition, probationary drivers wouldn’t be allowed to be behind the wheel between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. throughout the week. Exceptions would be made for teens driving to and from school, work or religious activities.
Indiana law now prohibits such driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. Friday and Saturday.
The legislation can be considered during the regular session that begins in January.