Teens in Ohio can start working toward their driver's license six months after their 15th birthday. It all starts with state-approved driver's ed classes, and eventually, teens can get behind the wheel. But there are a lot of restrictions in place for teen drivers until they reach 18.
For good reason. Traffic accidents are the leading cause of death for teens across the country. In 2020 alone, 2,276 people died in crashes involving a teen driver. That's about six people each day! To keep everyone safe, Ohio has implemented a Graduate Driver License program — which health experts say could save 500 lives in the U.S. each year! Here is a rundown of what teen drivers can expect in the Buckeye State.
Teen Temporary Permit Restrictions
Say you've taken driver's ed classes and aced your written exam. Now what? It's time to apply for a learner's permit (also called TIPIC in Ohio). With it, you'll need to get 50 hours of driving experience, and 10 of those hours have to be at night. Keep in mind, you'll need a licensed adult over the age of 21 by your side at all times.
Ohio First Stage Probationary License Restrictions
Once you pass your road exam (after holding a TIPIC for at least six months), you move on to the first stage of your probationary driver's license. It comes with some restrictions and freedoms:
You don't need an adult in the car.
You can't drive between 12 a.m. and 6 a.m. unless you're:
Accompanied by a licensed adult, over 21
Driving to and from work, with documentation to prove it
Driving to or from a school- or religious-sponsored event, with documentation to prove it
You may only transport one non-family member as a passenger, unless you're:
Accompanied by a parent or guardian
Everyone must wear seatbelts (a step further than state seatbelt laws).
You can't use any mobile devices (including cell phones).
Second Stage Probationary License Restrictions
After holding your probationary license for 12 months, the rules get more relaxed. You've gained valuable practice and should feel relatively confident behind the wheel.
No driving from 1 a.m. to 5 a.m., unless you're:
Accompanied by a licensed adult, over 21
Driving to and from work, with documentation to prove it
Driving to or from a school- or religious-sponsored event, with documentation to prove it
Everyone must wear seatbelts.
You can't use any mobile devices (including cell phones).
At this point, you're free to drive around a group of friends. You're only limited by your vehicle's passenger capacity.
Getting a Full Ohio Driver's License
On your 18th birthday, the state of Ohio gives you a little gift: you may now get your full unrestricted driver's license. You'll follow the same driving laws all other adult drivers follow.
No more nighttime driving limits, passenger limits, or seatbelt usage (although you should definitely continue buckling up!). However, cell phone restrictions continue. As of January 2023, using a mobile device in Ohio, regardless of the driver's age, is a primary traffic offense, meaning you could get pulled over and fined.
What Happens When Teens Break Driving Laws?
Teens convicted of traffic offenses within the first six months of having a probationary license will be ordered to drive with a parent or guardian for six extra months (or until they turn 17). Breaking multiple traffic laws by 18 will likely result in a suspended license for six months or more.
Start Your Ohio Driving Journey Today
Ready to start conquering your freedom? You can now take driver's ed classes online at your own pace, no matter where you are in Ohio. Forget what you've heard about boring, lackluster in-person courses. Our approach is different: the best way to really understand the material is through interactive classes. Once you go through these modules, you'll be ready to ace that written test!
Updated 4/18/23