Tips for Teens

• Always wear your seat belt.
• Don't drink and drive. Drinking under the age of 21 is illegal.
• Don't talk or text on your cellphone while driving.
• Obey the speed limit. Going too fast gives you less time to react.
• Don't eat or drink while driving.
• Adjust radio and climate controls before beginning your trip, have your passenger adjust the controls for you, or pull over to a safe place to adjust the controls.
• Since in many cases the teen driver shares a vehicle with a parent/guardian, the driver's seat and all mirrors should be adjusted prior to beginning a trip.
• If you cannot see a truck's mirrors, the driver cannot see you.
• Plan ahead; know where you are going and get directions.
• Leave early. Give yourself plenty of time to get there.
• Expect the unexpected. You never know what can happen.

Tips for Parents/Guardians:

• Set an example.
• Talk about driving with your teen even before they turn 16.
• Know the rules of the road.
• Make sure your vehicle is safe and well-maintained.
• Be familiar with the tasks and requirements of teaching your teen to drive. Use PennDOT's publication, Parent's Resource for Teen Driving.  
• Parents can also visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website for more tips in educating your teen driver.  
• Start out slow and simple, in a low-traffic area or a parking lot.
• Work your way into more difficult driving.
• Allow your teen to drive in all situations and all kinds of weather.
• There is no such thing as too much practice.

• Nighttime driving restriction begins at 11 PM: Even with a junior license, a young driver may not be behind the wheel between the hours of 11 PM and 5 AM. Exceptions for employment and volunteer or charitable service will apply, but young drivers must carry proper documentation regarding their need to travel.