SUMMARY:  LC 39 1087  

• Requires public high schools to offer an elective driver education and training course
• Changes the minimum age for issuance of certain licenses and permits
• Repeals the current sunset provision related to collection of additional penalties upon fines for the violation of traffic laws (if approved by constitutional amendment)
• Calls for a constitutional amendment to authorize the General Assembly to dedicate revenues for the funding of driver education . 

REQUIREMENTS:

• Driver education and training is defined as classroom instruction, behind-the-wheel instruction, simulation training, defensive driving, distance learning or virtual driver training programs which meet requirements for licensed driving of Class C or Class M motor vehicles.
• Public schools with grades 9-12 must provide an elective driver education course for 1/2 unit of credit beginning in the 2017-2018 school year.
• A person must be 16 years of age to be eligible to qualify for an instruction permit to operate a vehicle.
• Beginning July 1, 2017, a person must be at least 17 years of age and has completed a driver training program and has had at least 40 hours of supervised driving experience in order to qualify for a drivers license. 

EFFECTIVE DATE:

Part I relating to repealing sunset provisions of the increased fines for traffic violations becomes effective on July 1, 2017 only of a constitutional amendment is approved by the General Assembly and the voters.

Other provisions become effective if passed by the General assembly and approved by the Governor.