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Start Smart: Provisional License Information

​Provisional driver licenses are given to people under 18 years old.  If you are under 18 and at least 15 ½ you can apply for a provisional driver license. The first step to getting your license is to get your instruction permit. Because you are under 18, your permit and driver license are called, "Provisional." This means you have additional restrictions placed on your permit and driver license that adults (18 and over) do not have.

First Year Restrictions

  • ​Shall not drive between the hours of 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless accompanied and supervised by a licensed driver who is the parent/guardian, a licensed driver who is 25 years of age or older, or a certified driving instructor.

  • ​Shall not transport passengers who are under the age of 20 unless accompanied and supervised by a licensed driver who is the parent/guardian, a licensed driver who is 25 years of age or older, or a certified driving instructor.

Exemptions

 

The following exemptions may apply*:

  • Medical necessity (with a letter from a physician)

  • Employment necessity (with a letter from employer)

  • School-authorized activities (with a letter from the school)

  • Parental consent (with a letter signed by parent) for immediate family member

  • Emancipated minor

    *Each exception requires specific documentation and must include the date the exemption will cease. For more information, please contact your local CHP office.

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