Learn about MA driver education requirements, permit, and Junior Operator's License.
DRIVER EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
In Massachusetts, driver education is required for new drivers under 18. This consists of a 30-hour driver education class, 12 hours of actual in-car driving lessons, and 6 hours of back-seat observation. Parents are also required to attend a separate 2-hour parent class.
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles regulations allow students to start the driver education class at 15 years and 9 months. However, for actual in-car driving lessons and observation, students must be at least 16 years old and have a valid learner's permit.
FACTS ABOUT YOUR PERMIT
- Your permit is valid for two years and allows you to practice your driving skills while preparing for your road test.
- You must carry your permit whenever you drive until you earn a Junior Operator's License or a full driver's license.
- You must always be accompanied by a licensed operator who occupies the passenger seat next to you. This person must be at least 21 years old, have a valid license, and have at least one year of driving experience.
- If you are under 18, you may not drive between 12 AM and 5 AM unless accompanied by a licensed parent or legal guardian.
- A class D learner's permit allows you to operate a motor vehicle in another state as long as it does not violate the laws of that state (you must check with the specific state you plan on operating a vehicle in).
- You may only operate a passenger car.
- The minimum age to obtain a Junior Operator's License is 16 1/2. You must obtain your Learner's Permit at age 16, complete a driver's education course, and drive for six months without any surchargeable incidents or motor vehicle offenses before you are eligible to apply for a Junior Operator's License at age 16 1/2.
MASSACHUSETTS JUNIOR OPERATOR LICENSE (JOL)
- Complete a Massachusetts-approved driver education program.
- Be issued a driver's education certificate (processed online, posted in your RMV profile).
- Hold a valid learner's permit for at least six months.
- Have a clean driving record for the six consecutive months prior to the date of the license test.
- Completed 40 hours of supervised driving.
- Successfully pass a road test exam.
- Pay the required fees directly to the RMV.
If you want additional information, check out the RMV's Junior Operator License requirements page.
