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 Ohio Department of Public Safety, through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles' Driver Services Program, is in charge of licensing for all drivers in Ohio. Ohio driver license examinations are administered by the State Highway Patrol. License issuance is handled by the BMV. The BMV conducts the written exam and road test needed to get a driver’s license. It also provides study materials to help your teen get ready for the exams.

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.