Learning to drive is a huge progress in a teenager’s life, though it comes with key responsibilities and legal requirements. In Minnesota, just like in other states, a licensed adult driver should be in the front seat with a permitted driver. These rules ensure that drivers gain the necessary experience in a safe environment. If you want to understand who can be in the car with a permit driver in MN, the legal team at Schmidt-Salita Law Firm can help.
Our Minnesota car accident attorneys outline the key regulations governing permit driving in Minnesota to help you understand your rights and responsibilities.
What Are the Driver Rules in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, navigating the journey from a learner’s permit to a full driver’s license involves adhering to several key regulations. Permit holders must always have a licensed driver who is 21 years or older in the passenger seat. This adult is responsible for supervising and guiding the permit driver as they learn the rules of the road.
Additionally, permit drivers must log a minimum of 50 hours of supervised driving, including 15 nighttime hours, prior to applying for a provisional license.
Once a teen driver progresses from a learner’s permit to a provisional license, there are additional passenger restrictions. During the first six months, the driver is permitted to carry only one passenger under the age of 20 in the vehicle unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. This rule is relaxed slightly in the following six months, allowing up to three passengers under the age of 20, provided a licensed adult is present.
Who Can Be in the Car with a Permit Driver in MN?
The state of Minnesota has clear regulations on who is eligible to accompany a permitted driver in the vehicle. Primarily, the supervising driver, who must be at least 21 years old and hold a valid driver’s license, is required to sit in the front passenger seat. This person plays the role of providing guidance and ensuring safety.
Besides the supervising driver, there are no specific restrictions on the number of passengers; however, it is recommended to limit distractions by keeping the number of passengers to a minimum, especially for inexperienced drivers.
What Are the Driving Restrictions for Minors?
Minnesota imposes specific restrictions on minor drivers to enhance road safety. For the first six months of holding a provisional license, minors are not allowed to drive between midnight and 5 a.m. except when driving to or from work or school events.
Additionally, during the first six months, only one passenger under the age of 20 is allowed in the car unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. After the first six months, up to three passengers under 20 are permitted.
However, those with provisional licenses and learner’s permits are not allowed to use any devices while driving. Nevertheless, in cases of emergency, they can make emergency calls. Call your car accident attorney to help you understand these restrictions to help you retain your driving privileges.
At What Age Can Someone Apply for a Full Driver’s License?
In Minnesota, teens can apply for a full, unrestricted driver’s license at the age of 18. However, they must first complete the graduated driver licensing (GDL) system, which includes obtaining a learner’s permit and then a provisional license.
To qualify for a full license, the applicant must have held a provisional license for at least 12 months without any alcohol or controlled substance violations and no at-fault crashes.
Were You Hit by a Teen Driver? Contact a Minnesota Car Accident Lawyer
If you were involved in an accident with a teen driver, handling the legal process and applying Minnesota driver’s law can be challenging. You must be able to validate your claim that the other party violated the law, resulting in your injuries. At Schmidt-Salita Law Firm, our Minnesota car accident lawyers can break down your rights and help you pursue proper compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation at (952) 473-4530.