10 Things New Drivers Need to Know About Joshua’s Law in Athens, GA

Learning how to drive is an exciting time in our lives. We often think about getting behind the wheel, taking a road trip, or having fun driving to each stop on our to-do list for the day.

Having control of a vehicle comes with a few rules, especially when you’re driving in Athens, GA. If you’re a new driver or a parent helping your teen get behind the wheel, you need to know about Joshua’s Law.

1. Joshua's Law is About Your Safety

This law is named after Joshua Brown, a teenager who tragically died in a car crash in 2003. His parents fought to improve driver education requirements, and the result was this law that helps save lives. The goal is to help you feel more prepared before getting out there on your own.

2. Applies to 16- and 17-Year-Olds

Anyone under 18 must complete specific education and practice requirements before they’re allowed to test for their license.

3. Taking a State-Approved Course

One of the biggest parts of Joshua’s Law is completing 30 hours of classroom instruction. You can accomplish this requirement by taking in-person classes or completing them online (Athens Driving Prep does not offer this directly).

4. Mandatory Practice Time

In addition to the time in the classroom (including online), you also need 40 hours of supervised driving with a parent/guardian and/or driving instructor. Those figures include having six hours of practice time during night hours. You cannot take your test until you complete that 40-hour requirement. 

5. It Isn’t Optional

Driver’s Ed courses are sometimes seen as being something “extra.” However, Georgia doesn’t permit parents or unapproved providers from offering this education. If you skip the classroom, you cannot obtain your Class D license until you become an adult.

6. Get Your Learner’s Permit

Before you do anything, make sure you get your Georgia Learner's Permit. You need to be at least 15 years old, pass a written knowledge test, and bring the right documents to the DDS. That allows you to legally start getting those practice hours in behind the wheel.

7. Drive in Different Conditions

Joshua’s Law is meant to help you become a better driver when you first get started on this journey. Although you could just knock out all the driving time, we encourage you to embrace different conditions. Go out when it rains. Hit the highway at night. It’ll help you become more confident and prepared.

8. Class D License Restrictions

For the first 6 months, you can’t drive any passengers who aren’t immediate family. Then, for the next 6 months, you can have only one passenger under 21. After that, up to three passengers under 21 are allowed.

9. Insurance Discounts

Some companies offer car insurance discounts for new drivers if they’ve completed a state-approved driver’s ed course. Even when you turn 18 and get off your parent’s or guardian’s policy, the savings could be helpful.

10. Local Resources

Athens Driving Prep offers friendly, experienced instructors who know the ins and outs of Joshua’s Law and Georgia’s roads. We’ll help you reach your goals.

It can seem like a lot at first, but Joshua’s Law is just a structured way to help you become a safe driver. With the right training, you’ll be ready to get out there an explore in no time at all. Are you ready to get started?