Keys2Drive The AAA Guide to Teen Driver Safety
State Laws

State Laws

You will be a new driver soon. Your parents have been there every step of the way so far, and your state and local governments have been there too.
 

Licensing Authority

Illinois state mapThe Arizona  Department of Transportation, through its Motor Vehicle Department, is in charge of licensing for all drivers in the state. The AZDOT:

  • Conducts the written exam, eye exam and road test for your graduated instruction permit and graduated driver’s license.
  • Provides study materials to help you get ready for the exams.
  • Keeps track of your license status and can suspend your license if you get too many tickets, don’t keep insurance on your car or commit other violations. 

Policing

Your parents will do most of the rule setting and enforcement as you learn to drive. But state and local police are involved, too.

Police enforce traffic laws and investigate crashes. By enforcing traffic laws and requirements on safety belt use, distracted driving, drinking and driving, and teen licensing laws, police keep everyone on the road safer. Breaking the law can lead to fines, license suspension and other penalties.

  • If pulled over by the police, expect to present your driver’s license, the vehicle registration and proof of insurance.
  • If stopped as a driver or passenger, always cooperate and be respectful with law enforcement.
  • If in any kind of situation involving law enforcement, talk to your parents about it immediately afterward.

Courts

If you get a ticket or are involved in a crash, you may need to appear in court, whether you believe you were at fault or not. This is serious stuff: Judges often assess fines and suspend driving privileges for traffic offenses.

Driving Responsibly: It’s Up to You and Your Parents

Police and courts are there when things go wrong. You and your parents can help keep things right.
  • Use a parent-teen driving agreement.
  • Keep your parents in the know about who you ride with.
  • Let your parents know when and where you’re headed.

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