On Thursday, July 1, 2021, Senate Bill 226–also known as “Joshua’s Law”–took effect, changing the law for drivers 16 and 17 years old.

REQUIREMENTS UNDER JOSHUA’S LAW

According to the Georgia Department of Driver Services, Joshua’s Law will have the following effects:

“If you are 16 years of age, applying for a Class D License or Motorcycle Permit (Class MP):

You must complete an approved driver education course with a certified private or public driver training school using one of the following methods. Approved classes are offered online and tend to be more economical.  You must also complete each item in the method you choose.

• Method 1

  • 30 hours of classroom instruction
  • 6 hours behind the wheel training at the certified school
  • 40 hours of supervised driving with a parent or guardian (6 hours of the 40 hours must be at night)

• Method 2

  • 30 hours of classroom instruction at the certified school
  • 40 hours parent-taught behind-the-wheel training. Use the Parent/Teen Driving Guide (includes 40 hours of supervised driving with parent or guardian)

• Method 3

  • 30 hours of online instruction with a certified virtual program
  • 6 hours behind the wheel training at a certified school
  • 40 hours of supervised driving with a parent or guardian (6 hours of the 40 hours must be at night)

• Method 4

  • 30 hours of online instruction with a certified virtual program
  • 40 hours of parent-taught behind-the-wheel training. Use the Parent/Teen Driving Guide (includes 40 hours of supervised driving with parent or guardian)

If you are 17 years of age, applying for a Class D License or Motorcycle Permit (Class MP), on or after July 1, 2021:

• You must satisfy the same requirements as a 16-year old. View  Joshua’s Law Course Chart (printable chart) for more information.

If you are 17 and enlisted in the military:

• You may apply for a Class C License and will be exempt from holding your permit for one (1) year and one day.
• You must provide a completed    Verification of Enrollment in Military Service Form (DS-517).”

Georgia Department of Driver Services.

CONTACT US

If you have questions or find yourself facing a traffic offense, give us a call at 770-415-9848 at The Sellers Law Firm, LLC: where clients become family.

You may also submit a case evaluation request on our website HERE.