State Laws
Your teen will soon be a new driver. You’ve been there every step of the way so far, and your state and local governments have, too.
Licensing Authority
The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles is in charge of licensing for all drivers in the state and is responsible for the following:
- Conducting written exams and road tests
- Regulating driving schools
- Keeping track of your license status and can suspend licenses for violations
Policing
State and local police enforce traffic laws and investigate crashes. Remind your teen that police can and will enforce all requirements on safety belt use, drinking and driving and other laws. Breaking the law can lead to fines, license suspension and other penalties. Talk to your teen about these and other consequences, and explain what to do if stopped by police.
- If stopped by the police, teens should expect to present a valid license, vehicle registration and proof of insurance.
- If stopped as a driver or passenger, teens should always cooperate and be respectful with law enforcement.
- If in any kind of situation involving law enforcement, teens should talk to their parents about it, because this can create a learning experience.
Courts
If your teen gets a ticket or is involved in a crash, it could lead to a court appearance. Judges deal seriously and directly with teen traffic violations. They can assess fines and suspend driving privileges for traffic offenses—even for a first offense.
