Skip to agency navigation
Skip to main content

Official Website

of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

    The .gov means its official.

    Local, state, and federal government websites often end in .gov. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania government websites and email systems use "pennsylvania.gov" or "pa.gov" at the end of the address. Before sharing sensitive or personal information, make sure you're on an official state website. 

    For Teens

    Driver Safety Tips for Teenagers

    • Always wear your seat belt.
    • Obey the speed limit. Going too fast gives you less time to react.
    • Use your turn signals so other drivers know what you are doing.
    • Don't drink and drive. Drinking under the age of 21 is illegal.
    • Focus on the driving task-the road and the conditions around you.
    • Don't use your cell phone while driving. This is a distraction that will take your attention away from driving.
    • Don't eat or drink while driving. These are also distractions.
    • Plan ahead. Know where you are going and get directions.
    • Leave early. Give yourself plenty of time to get there.

    For Parents

    Teaching Your Teenager to Drive

    • Set an example.
    • Know the rules of the road.
    • Make sure your vehicle is safe and well-maintained.
    • Be familiar with the tasks and requirements of teaching your teen to drive. Use The Parent's Supervised Driving Program Guidebook (PDF).
    • Start out slow and simple, in a low traffic area or a parking lot.
    • Work your way into more difficult driving.
    • Talk about driving.
    • Allow your teen to drive in all situations and all kinds of weather.
    • There is no such thing as too much practice.

    After Your Teenager Receives His or Her Driver's License

    • Limit the number of passengers.
    • Enforce a curfew.
    • Gradually increase the amount of time you allow your teen to drive.
    • Gradually increase the distance you allow your teen to drive.
    • Do not allow your teen to eat or drink while driving.
    • Do not allow your teen to use a cell phone while driving.
    • Enforce observance of speed limits and other rules of the road.
    • Do not allow your teen to drink and drive. Drinking under the age of 21 is illegal.
    • Ride with your teen occasionally to monitor his or her driving skills.