Joshua's Law Requirements
Teen Driver Education - Senate Bill 226 also known as "Joshua's Law" requires 16 and 17 years old to do the following to get a Georgia Driver’s License:
If you are 16 years of age, applying for a Class D License or Motorcycle Permit (Class MP):
You must complete an approved driver education course with a certified private or public driver training school using one of the following methods. Approved classes are also offered online. You must also complete each item in the method you choose.
Method 1
- 30 hours of classroom instruction
- 6 hours behind the wheel training at the certified school
- 40 hours of supervised driving with a parent or guardian (6 hours of the 40 hours must be at night)
Method 2
- 30 hours of classroom instruction at the certified school
- 40 hours parent-taught behind-the-wheel training. Use the Parent/Teen Driving Guide (includes 40 hours of supervised driving with parent or guardian)
Download Parent/Teen Guide PDF
Method 3
- 30 hours of online instruction with a certified virtual program
- 6 hours behind the wheel training at a certified school
- 40 hours of supervised driving with a parent or guardian (6 hours of the 40 hours must be at night)
Method 4
- 30 hours of online instruction with a certified virtual program
- 40 hours of parent-taught behind-the-wheel training. Use the Parent/Teen Driving Guide (includes 40 hours of supervised driving with parent or guardian)
Download Parent/Teen Guide PDF
If you are 17 years of age, applying for a Class D License or Motorcycle Permit (Class MP), on or after July 1, 2021:
- You must satisfy the same requirements as a 16-year old. View
Joshua's Law Course Chart (printable chart) for more information.
If you are 17 and enlisted in the military:
- You may apply for a Class C License and will be exempt from holding your permit for one (1) year and one day.
- You must provide a completed
Verification of Enrollment in Military Service Form (DS-517)
Please keep in mind:
- The DDS-approved driver education courses are offered by various high schools and private driving schools. Prices generally start at around $250. DDS has also approved online virtual programs. Online Virtual programs are lower in cost. For a list of approved schools visit Driver Training Schools.
- All teens must hold a learner's permit for 1 year and 1 day before being issued a Class D license. A learner’s permit is required for the behind-the-wheel training.
- A driving log is not required for supervised driving or parent-taught behind-the-wheel training. But, a parent or guardian must be present when applying for the license at DDS. The parent will be required to attest to the teen’s completion of this training.
Related Links:
-
Joshua's Law Course Chart (printable chart)
- Joshua's Law FAQs