Joshua’s Law

Are you familiar with Joshua’s Law? It is a bill that changes the requirements that teen drivers must meet in order to obtain a Class D driver’s license starting on July 1, 2021.

To get a Class D driver’s license at the age of sixteen (16) or seventeen (17):

You must have completed a 30 hour driver education course approved by the Department of Driver Services and
You also must have completed a cumulative total of at least forty (40) hours of other supervised driving experience, including at least six (6) hours at night.

If you have not completed an approved driver’s education course, you cannot get your Class D driver’s license until you reach age eighteen (18). Remember, forty (40) hours of driving experience, including six (6) hours of driving at night, is always required for a Class D driver’s license.

Additional Resources

FAQ’s About Joshua’s Law

Who conducts the 6 hours of night training?

The Parent or Legal Guardian

What if my child is seventeen years old do the same rules apply?

Yes, they must have a 30 hour driver education course approved by the Department of Driver Services and 40 hours of supervised driving (6 of which must be at night) or 6 hours of behind the wheel driving with a licensed instructor.

When did the law change take place?

July 1, 2021

Am I able to get an insurance reduction when my child completes a state approved Driver's Education course?

Only a Certificate of Completion from a State Licensed School providing 30 hours of classroom instruction and 6 hours behind the wheel instruction would be eligible for a reduction in insurance premiums.

What is the cost of a driver's education course?

Costs are determined by the schools.

What if my child just moved in to the state of Georgia?

Any 16 or 17 year old must have taken an approved Drivers Education Course to be issued a license in Georgia. If you have taken a course out of state please contact DDS.