Georgia Provisional License Requirements for Teens

In Georgia, teens progress through a graduated driver licensing (GDL) program known as the Teenage & Adult Driver Responsibility Act (TADRA). This multi-stage system helps new drivers build experience and develop safe driving habits. The Class D provisional license is the second phase in this program, following the instructional permit (Class CP).

Eligibility for a Georgia Provisional License

To apply for a Class D license in Georgia, the teen must meet the following criteria:

• Be at least 16 years old.
• Have held a valid Georgia learner’s permit (Class CP) for at least 12 months and one day.
• Have had no major traffic violations during the permit period.
• Completed a certified Driver’s Education course if under 17.
• Logged at least 40 hours of supervised driving, including 6 hours at night.

Learn more about the first step in this process by reviewing Applying for a Georgia Learner's Permit.

Driver’s Education and Supervised Practice

Teens under 17 must complete a Georgia DDS-approved Driver's Education course, which includes:

• 30 hours of classroom or online instruction
• 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training with a licensed instructor

Additionally, all applicants must submit a completed and signed driving log verifying 40 hours of supervised practice, which may include practice time with a parent or legal guardian.

Required Documentation

Applicants need to bring the following to their local DDS office:

• Proof of identity, Social Security number, and Georgia residency
• Certificate of School Enrollment (DS-1), dated within the past 30 days
• ADAP (Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program) certificate
• Completion certificate from an approved Driver’s Ed course (if under 17)
• Parent/guardian to sign the application and affidavit

Refer to Georgia Secure ID Documentation Requirements for a complete list of acceptable documents.

Driving Restrictions on a Class D License

The provisional Class D license comes with specific limitations for drivers under 18:

• Time restrictions: No driving between 12:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m.
• Passenger restrictions (first 6 months): Only immediate family members are allowed.
• Passenger restrictions (months 6-12): One passenger under age 21 who is not an immediate family member.
• After 12 months: Up to three passengers under age 21 who are not family members.

These restrictions aim to reduce distractions and encourage safer driving habits among teens.

Violations and Penalties

If a teen driver is convicted of any major traffic violations—such as speeding, reckless driving, or DUI—it may lead to suspension of the Class D license. A serious offense could also delay eligibility for a full Class C license at age 18.

Understand the risks and penalties by reviewing Georgia Speed Limits and Super Speeder Penalties and Understanding Georgia's DUI Laws and Penalties.

Advancing to a Class C License

Once the driver turns 18 and has held the Class D license for at least 12 months without any major violations, they become eligible to upgrade to a Class C license. No additional testing is required unless the license has expired.

For testing details, refer to Georgia Driver's License Testing Overview.