No Driving Test for Teens During Coronavirus

            Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has made it easier for teens to get their driver’s licenses, temporarily eliminating the in-person driving test due to the Coronavirus. Pursuant to an April 23, 2020, executive order, teens still must complete all driving requirements, but there will be no behind the wheel driving test. The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) is practicing social distancing; and, it is impossible to maintain social distancing while conducting a road test in the same vehicle. Teens who obtain their license without having to submit to the road test, will not have to take the test even when DDS is operating as normal again.

            Normally, to obtain a driver’s license in Georgia, applicants must:

-          Be at least 16

-          Have an instructional permit for one year and one day

-          Have obtained no major traffic violations

-          Complete a minimum of 40 hours of supervised driving, including six hours at night

-          If 16 or older, comply with Joshua’s law (requiring completion of a driver’s education course

-          Be able to pass a vision exam

-          Complete a road skills test

-          If 18 or under, have approval from a parent or guardian

            Parents are now on a sort of honor system to determine whether their child deserves a license. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teens in the United States. The CDC correctly points out that teenagers’ lack of driving experience, along with their risk-taking nature, heightens their risk of crashes. With as bad as drivers can be in an around Atlanta when there is a driving test, this could prove to be a short-sighted decision. 

            Now is a particularly good time to ensure you have good car insurance. Many courts in the metro Atlanta area are lenient with younger drivers, often resulting in more favorable dispositions than many of their older counterparts. Courts are not always concerned with restitution or ensuring that your damages have been paid for. If you have been the victim of an incident with a young driver consult with an attorney to learn more about your options.

            For more information or to set up a consultation, contact us today at 770-881-8081 or admin@knattorneys.com.