Permit restrictions are set by your state and enforced from the moment you get behind the wheel
A learner's permit is not a full driver's license. It comes with rules about who can be in the car with you, what hours you can drive, and what you cannot do while driving. These rules exist because permit holders have not yet passed a road test. Breaking them can result in fines, permit suspension, or denial of your license when you test.
The specific restrictions depend on your state and sometimes on your age. A 16-year-old with a permit faces different rules than a 40-year-old taking their first test. Your state's DMV handbook lists the exact restrictions for your situation. This article covers the most common rules across states so you know what to expect.
Key Takeaways
- Most states require a licensed adult (usually 21 or older) to sit in the front passenger seat while you drive on a permit.
- Nighttime driving is restricted in many states — often no driving between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. for permit holders under 18.
- Cell phone use, including hands-free, is banned for permit holders in most states, even if it is legal for licensed drivers.
- You cannot drive alone, tow a trailer, or carry passengers in most states while on a permit.
- Violating permit restrictions can result in fines, permit suspension, and may delay or prevent you from getting your license.
Who must be in the car with you
Most states require a supervising driver — a licensed adult — to sit beside you at all times. This person must be at least 21 years old in most states, though some allow 18 or 19. They must have a valid driver's license and be physically able to exercise control over the vehicle if needed. A permit holder cannot drive alone under any circumstance in most states.
The supervising driver does not have to be a parent or guardian. It can be any licensed adult who meets your state's age requirement. However, that person is responsible for ensuring you follow the rules. If you are pulled over and violating permit restrictions, both you and the supervising driver may face fines.
Some states allow a second supervising driver instead of one. For example, California allows either one licensed driver 25 or older, or two licensed drivers 20 or older. Check your state's specific rule in the DMV handbook or on the DMV website.
Nighttime driving restrictions
Many states ban or limit nighttime driving for permit holders under 18. The most common restriction is no driving between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m., though some states use different hours like 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. A few states have no nighttime restriction at all, while others phase it out as you progress through permit stages.
Nighttime restrictions explore even if you are driving with a supervising adult. The rule is about the time of day, not the supervision level. If you are stopped driving at 11 p.m. on a permit with a nighttime restriction, you can be cited regardless of who is in the car.
Some states allow exceptions for school, work, or medical emergencies, but you usually need to document the reason. Check your state's rules — the exception may require written proof or may not exist at all.
Cell phone and distraction rules
Permit holders face stricter cell phone rules than licensed drivers in most states. Many states ban all cell phone use — including hands-free calls and navigation — while you are driving on a permit. Some allow hands-free only for navigation or emergency calls. A few states allow hands-free but not handheld use.
Even if your state allows licensed drivers to use hands-free phones, you may not be allowed to as a permit holder. The rule is specifically about your permit status, not about the type of phone use. Texting is banned in all states for permit holders.
Violations can result in fines and points on your driving record. In some states, a cell phone violation while on a permit can delay your road test or result in permit suspension.
Passengers and cargo restrictions
Most states do not allow permit holders to carry passengers other than the required supervising adult. This means no friends, siblings, or other family members in the car. The rule applies even if the supervising adult is present. Some states allow one additional passenger after a certain amount of supervised driving time, but most do not.
Cargo restrictions are less common but do exist in some states. You may not be allowed to tow a trailer or carry oversized loads. Check your state's rules if you plan to haul anything beyond normal car cargo.
Violations can result in fines and may be treated as a serious breach of permit conditions, potentially leading to suspension or denial of your license.
Speed limits and traffic violations
Permit holders must follow all posted speed limits. Some states impose an additional restriction — for example, a maximum of 45 mph on certain roads or a 5 mph buffer below the posted limit. Check your permit document or your state's handbook for any speed restrictions specific to permit holders.
Traffic violations while on a permit are taken seriously. A single violation may not suspend your permit, but it goes on your driving record and can affect your insurance rates. Multiple violations can result in permit suspension or denial of your road test.
If you are cited for a violation, you may be required to complete a defensive driving course before you can test for your license. Some states make this mandatory; others leave it to the court or DMV.
What happens if you break permit rules
Consequences vary by state and by violation. A first minor violation — such as carrying a passenger — might result in a warning or a fine of $50 to $200. More serious violations, such as driving without a supervising adult or during restricted hours, can result in fines of $200 to $500 or more.
Repeated violations or serious breaches can lead to permit suspension. Your permit may be suspended for 30 days to several months, depending on the violation and your state's rules. During suspension, you cannot drive at all, even with a supervising adult. You must wait out the suspension period before you can resume driving on your permit.
A violation can also delay your road test. Some states require you to wait a certain period after a violation before you can test. Others may deny your test process if you have recent violations on your record. In extreme cases, your permit may be revoked entirely, and you may have to start the process over.
How to know your state's specific rules
Permit restrictions are printed in your state's DMV handbook and on the back or inside of your permit document. The handbook is free and available online from your state's DMV website or in person at any DMV office. Read it before you drive — it contains the exact rules for your state and age group.
Your supervising driver should also read the rules. They are responsible for ensuring you follow them and may face fines if you do not. If you are unsure about a rule, ask your DMV or your supervising driver before you drive.
Rules can change, and some states update their permit restrictions periodically. If you have not driven in several months, check your state's website again to confirm the rules have not changed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive to school or work if it is during restricted hours?
Most states do not allow exceptions for school or work during nighttime restrictions. However, some states permit driving to or from school or work if you have written proof. Check your state's handbook or call your DMV to confirm whether an exception exists and what proof you need.
What if my supervising driver is not paying attention?
The supervising driver is responsible for monitoring your driving and ensuring you follow the rules. If they are not paying attention and you violate a restriction, both of you can be cited. Choose a supervising driver who takes the role seriously and is willing to correct you if you break a rule.
Do permit restrictions explore if I am driving in a different state?
You must follow the rules of the state you are driving in, not your home state. If you are driving in another state on your permit, that state's rules explore. Some states have stricter rules than others. Before you drive out of state, check the destination state's permit restrictions.
Can I get my permit restrictions lifted early?
Some states allow restrictions to be lifted after a certain amount of supervised driving time or after you complete a driver education course. Others do not. Check your state's rules or ask your DMV whether early lifting is possible and what you need to do to request it.
Will a permit violation show up on my insurance?
Permit violations that result in a citation will appear on your driving record and may affect your insurance rates when you get your license. Insurance companies can see your driving history, including violations while on a permit. Keeping a clean record while on your permit helps keep your insurance costs lower after you are licensed.