Passenger and Curfew Laws for Minor Drivers
Unless a minor driver's parent or legal guardian is present, state law prohibits any driver under age 18 from driving with:
- any passenger under age 21 who is not a member of the driver's immediate family until having held a driver license for at least six months; and
- two or more passengers under age 21 who are not members of the driver's immediate family until having held a driver license for at least one year.
In addition, occupants of vehicles driven by persons under the age of 18 must wear a seatbelt or be properly restrained.
The law allows exceptions to the passenger restrictions when:
- the minor's parent, legal guardian, or other responsible adult who has legally signed an affidavit of liability is in the vehicle;
- an adult who has held a valid driver license for at least one year is in the vehicle;
- a passenger who is under the age of 21 is in the vehicle due to a medical emergency; or
- a passenger who is under the age of 21 is an immediate family member and wearing a seatbelt.
Minor drivers who have not held a driver license for at least one year are also prohibited from driving between the hours of 12:00 and 5:00 a.m. Exceptions are provided if:
- the driver's parent or legal guardian is present in the vehicle;
- the vehicle contains a person over age 21 who has held a valid driver license for at least one year;
- or the minor is driving on account of medical emergency, to school or a school‑related activity, or to his or her place of employment.
A person in violation of the requirements commits a traffic infraction punishable by:
- 8 to 24 hours of community service;
- a fine of up to $50; and
- an assessment of two license suspension points.
A second or subsequent violation results in:
- 16 to 40 hours of community service;
- a fine of up to $150; and
- an assessment of two license suspension points.
Visit the Division of Motor Vehicles for additional information about minor drivers.