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New License - Under 18
GEICO could save you over $500. Get an instant insurance quote.www.GEICO.comSave on Auto Insurance with the Discounts You Deserve. Get a Quote.Allstate.comYou're young. You can't wait to get your driver's license. You see it as another step on the road to independence.
All of that is understandable. And, normal. But, you should also be aware that:
- The leading cause of death for teenagers is car crashes.
- Inexperienced driving is cited as the reason for most teenage crashes.
- 16-year-olds are about three times more likely to die in a crash as the average-aged driver.
- 16-year-olds have a higher crash rate than any other age of driver.
- About half of teenage deaths occur when there is another teen in the car.
- Death rates for 16- and 17-year-old drivers increase with each extra passenger.
These statistics aren't meant to scare you from driving. They're meant to alert you to the danger that is possible any time you get behind the wheel and turn the ignition.
If you are looking for the nuts and bolts about the restrictions on and the steps for young drivers to obtain driver's licenses, be sure to get all of the details. Surely those particulars are important, but so is the matter of learning to be a safe driver.
Safety Tips for New Drivers
So what can you do to help make sure that you―and your passengers―stay safe? Try the following safety tips:
- While driving, try to limit the use of your cell phone to emergencies. As a teen, it may seem that using a cell phone is as natural as breathing. However, numerous studies have shown that using a cell phone while driving greatly increases your risk of being in an accident. You may think you're paying attention to what's happening on the road, but it is extremely easy to miss little details that could lead to an accident. As a teen, while driving it is far better to just concentrate on your driving.
- Along the same lines, don't apply makeup, comb your hair, eat your lunch, flip around the radio, or talk excessively to your passengers while driving. Distractions often lead to accidents, no matter how minor the distraction may seem. In fact, it's the most common reason for crashes. So, keep your eyes on the road, and your attention on your driving.
- Be especially careful at intersections. This is where most accidents occur that involve teen drivers. Your inexperience may make it difficult for you to properly judge distance and speed. So, take it easy, and drive defensively. Don't assume that just because you have the green light that other cars will stop.
- Obey the speed limits. Yes, that sounds obvious. But, speed limits are there for a reason. While your reflexes as a teen may be good, your experience level is not. Going too fast simply gives you less time to react. So, give yourself a break, and just slow down. And, this doesn't even take into account the ramifications of getting a speeding ticket while you're a teen.
- Make sure to wear your seat belt, no matter how long you're planning to be in the car. Accidents can happen in the first few seconds after you begin driving, too. Also, make sure your passengers wear their seat belts, as well. It may seem like nagging, but if you're in an accident, that seat belt might help limit the injuries and possibly save your life, or the life of a friend. Just like speed limits, seat belts are there for a reason.
- Be especially careful when driving with friends. Studies have shown that the more passengers you have in your car, the more likely you'll be in an accident.
- If you're feeling tired or drowsy, don't drive. If you're already on the road, find a good place to stop. Then, take a brief nap, or just get out of your car and stretch or walk around for a bit. Doing so will enable your mind and body to be refreshed, so that you'll be more alert when you begin driving again.
Related Questions from DMV Answers
Where can I get an application for a temporary license plate?
Probably because of the amount of paperwork that’s required (copies of title/registration documents, proof of identification, proof of residency, proof of vehicle identification number, fees, etc.), most states require owners to apply for temporary license plates (or temporary permits or temporary registrations, as some states call them) in person at the DMV or other state motor vehicle licensing agency. If this is the case for you, sweep through your state’s Web site and look to see if an temporary license plate application form is available online before heading out; it could save you some time.No matter what state you live in, when you purchase a new or used vehicle from a dealership your salesperson will start most of the registration-related paperwork for you and issue you a temporary license plate or equivalent; therefore, the grid doesn’t reflect the dealership option.Check your state in the grid below.
Read more >>What is a Class C license?
It depends on the state. Different states use the term “Class C” to describe a certain type of license. In states like Oregon, a Class C license is a regular drivers license enabling you to drive a regular passenger vehicle. Some other states call a type of commercial driver’s license a Class C license. Massachussetts’ Class C is for drivers of 16 passenger vans and hazardous materials. California, on the other hand, has two types of Class C licenses. The Commercial Class C is for hazardous materials drivers, and California’s non-commercial Class C is for everyday drivers. If you would like to get a commercial drivers license, contact the commercial drivers licensing department of your state motor vehicle office. They will tell you which terminology they use. If you would like to get a regular drivers license, follow the directions for obtaining a new drivers license in your state.
Read more >>How much does it cost for license reinstatement?
Each state, as the grid shows below, mandates different license reinstatement fees. Most fees vary depending on the nature of the suspended license. Insurance-related suspensions, for instance, are usually higher than traffic-ticket suspensions. But again, it depends on your state, which should inform you of your exact reinstatement fee. Getting a drivers license reinstated requires more than just paying a reinstatement fee. For exact requirements, contact your local DMV office.
Read more >>Where can I get a release of liability form?
Not every state requires a specific release of liability form (see grid below) during a title transfer. If, however, you do reside in a state that requires this form, you can grab one from your local DMV office. Or, in some instances, download a copy from your state's DMV Web site. This form goes under many names. Arizona, for example, calls it a Sold Notice. California refers to it as a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability. And Ohio names it a Customer Request to Cancel Vehicle Registration form.Keep in mind that just because your state does not require a specific Release of Liability form, does not mean you're free from notifying your DMV office. In lieu of a specific form, many states substitute surrendering the vehicle's license plates as adequate notification. Others require a letter in writing. And some don't require any notification at all. The advantage of getting a release of liability on record is that should the new owner not properly file title transfer paperwork,...
Read more >>What is the cell phone law in my state?
Before trying to contact a friend or family member while driving, know the cell phone law of the state you're in. Otherwise you may receive a traffic ticket with a hefty fine. This also applies to text messaging, which many states, over the last year, have enacted laws banning this practice.If you need to know your state's cell phone traffic law, contact your DMV or state police. Or, if you need to know now, consult the grid below.
Read more >>
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