Michigan teens would need supervised practice before advancing through license levels

Level 1 applicants would need at least six driving hours with an instructor and written parent or guardian approval. These rules cover teens seeking Michigan's first stage of supervised driving. Applicants would also need to pass a vision test and meet health standards. They could drive only with a licensed parent or guardian or, with their permission, another licensed driver age 21 or older. This bill would take effect only if Senate Bill 1204 also becomes law. Drivers would stay at level 1 for at least six months.

Level 2 applicants would need further driver education, supervised practice, and a driving test. These requirements cover teens seeking the next stage of Michigan's graduated license. Applicants would need to finish the second driver education segment. During the 90 days before applying, applicants could have no moving violation (a driving offense) resulting in a conviction or civil finding, or crash where the official police report indicates they committed a moving violation. A parent or guardian would certify at least 50 supervised driving hours, including at least 10 at night. Drivers limited to daylight driving would not need nighttime practice. This bill would take effect only if Senate Bill 1204 also becomes law. Applicants would need to hold level 1 status for at least six months before advancing.

Level 2 drivers would face nighttime and passenger limits, with exceptions. These limits cover teens with level 2 licenses. Both limits would allow exceptions for an accompanying parent or guardian, a licensed driver age 21 or older chosen by them, work trips, and certain allowed activities. The passenger limit would also allow additional passengers who are immediate family members. This bill would take effect only if Senate Bill 1204 also becomes law. Drivers would remain at level 2 for at least six months.