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California Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Laws

Each year, more than 3,000 young drivers are killed1 and nearly 450,000 are injured2 in motor vehicle crashes, making car accidents the number one killer of teens in the nation3.

Discussing safe driving habits with your young driver can help prevent your teen from becoming a statistic. Following the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) laws in your state are just one way you can help your teen be a safer, more aware driver. GDL laws were created to help teen drivers gradually gain skills and experience behind the wheel before earning full driving privileges. Research has shown these laws can reduce crash rates among new teen drivers by 43%4.

Along with the Transportation Reauthorization laws that provide incentives to states that implement GDL laws, Allstate is focused on encouraging everyone to adopt these teen driving safety standards.

State Map

Laws are based on your current location.

California Graduated Driver Licensing Provisions

 
 
Minimum age
15 years and 6 months old
Learner stage duration
6 months
Required supervised driving hours
50 hours, 10 of which must be at night
Nighttime driving restriction
11 p.m. to 5 a.m..
Passenger restriction (family members are exempt unless otherwise noted)
No passengers under 20 years old during the first 12 months
Minimum age for full-privilege driving
17 years old


For more teen driving and GDL information, see the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's listing of GDL laws.

Learn more about California licensing requirements and teen driving in California.

When you have a teen driver, you have a lot on your mind. Navigating this milestone moment can be daunting, but Allstate will be there to help you through it. From figuring out how to educate your teen about safe driving to understanding the ins and outs of teen car insurance, your agent will be there to help answer your questions. When you have the right information, it's easier to choose the coverage levels deductibles that work best with your needs and your budget.

Insuring a new driver could mean you're eligible for new discounts. Your agent can help you find additional ways to save as you update your policy. If you're purchasing a new car for your teen driver, be sure to ask about new car discounts and check out the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's information on vehicle safety ratings and features.

Find an agent to learn more about insuring a young driver with Allstate.

Coverages and discounts are subject to availability and qualifications. Other terms, conditions and exclusions may apply.

1Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)

2The Teen Driver. American Academy of Pediatrics, 11 Jan. 2008. Web. 18 June 2013.

3"Leading Causes of Death." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 17 Sept. 2013. Web. 18 June 2013.

4"Graduated Driver Licensing." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 23 Apr. 2010. Web. 18 June 2013.

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