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What It's Like to Get Your Driver's License as an Adult
Pennsylvania Driver's License Laws for Adults 18 and Up
Getting a driver's license is an important rite of passage in many of our lives. For a lot of us, this important event occurs as soon as the law allows (16 years old in most states), but this isn't always the case.
According to a recent study, today only 28% of 16-year-olds in the US have driver's licenses, and just 46% of them have their license by the time they turn 18. This means that far greater numbers of drivers are waiting until they are over 18, and legally considered to be adults, before getting behind the wheel.
Adult Drivers vs. Teen Drivers
Many factors may prevent someone from pursuing their driver's license as a young teenager, but waiting a few years may turn out to be very beneficial. Study after study has confirmed that the youngest drivers on our roads are also often the most dangerous drivers.
In many ways, learning to drive as an adult is easier than doing so as a 16-year-old. The increased sense of maturity that often accompanies adulthood means that you'll likely make safer driving decisions. Plus, in the minds of DMV officials, adults' strong grasp of road responsibilities means they have fewer driving restrictions and need to fulfil fewer driving requirements than their younger counterparts.
The Differences in Applying for a Driver's License as an Adult
There are some key differences when applying for a regular Class C Pennsylvania driver's license as an adult, as opposed to applying when you are under 18. We've put together a visual guide to give you a quick idea of the distinctions between the two application processes.
For the official instructions on obtaining your Pennsylvania driver's license, consult the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
Check Out Our Other Resources for New Drivers
An educated, experienced driver will always perform better in hazardous situations. That's why we encourage you to check out the following pages for helpful new driver information:
- State-By-State Licensing Laws
- Pittsburgh Area Driving Schools
- Cell Phones and Driving
If You Need Legal Help, We're Always Here
If you've been injured in an accident, we're available 24/7 to help. Call us for free legal consultation, and we'll answer your legal questions. Or simply click on the link below to quickly submit your information online.
Sources: “Percentage of Young Persons With a Driver's License Continues to Drop.” Michael Sivaka & Brandon Schoettlea, University of Michigan's Transportation Research Institute. July 13, 2015.“Applying for a New License (Drivers 18+) in Pennsylvania.” Dmv.org/pa. July 13, 2015.“Applying for a New License (Teen Drivers) in Pennsylvania.” Dmv.org/pa. July 13, 2015.
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