Why Is it Important to Abide by the Restrictions on Your Provisional License in California?

Provisional licenses are issued to teenagers between the ages of 16 and 18.

A California provisional, or distinctive, license is issued to teenagers between the ages of 16 and 18. Failing to follow the provisions included with this license can result in community service, fines and even suspension of your license.

Community Service

Discipline for violating provisional license restrictions include community service. A driver must complete between 8 and 16 hours for the first offense and between 16 and 24 hours for any subsequent offense. Failure to complete community service within 90 days will result in a $35 fine for the first offense and a $50 fine for any subsequent offense.

Fines

Drivers found in violation of the provisional license restrictions may be subject to fines. A $35 fine will be levied for the first offense and a $50 fine will be levied for any subsequent offense.

Restrictions

Once two or more violation points have accrued during a 12-month period, a driver will be placed on 30 days of restriction. During that 30 days the driver must be accompanied by a licensed parent, spouse, guardian, or other licensed driver 25 years of age or older.

Suspension

An accumulation of three or more violation points in a 12-month period is grounds for a six-month suspension of driving privileges and one year of probation. During probation, the driver must not break any laws or be responsible for any accidents.

References

• California Department of Motor Vehicles: Provisional License for Minors: Distinctive Driver's License