D.C.'s Graduated Licensing Program Explained

Washington D.C.'s Graduated Licensing Program (GLP) is a structured, three-stage process designed to help novice drivers—particularly teenagers—gain the experience and skills necessary to drive safely. This phased approach allows young drivers to gradually earn full driving privileges while minimizing risks associated with inexperience behind the wheel.

Stage 1: Learner’s Permit

The first step in D.C.’s GLP is obtaining a learner’s permit, which is available to applicants as young as 16 years old. This permit allows individuals to practice driving under the supervision of a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old and has held a full driver’s license for at least one year.

Requirements for a Learner’s Permit

• Minimum age: 16
• Pass the knowledge test on road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices
• Provide proof of identity, D.C. residency, and Social Security number
• Submit a parent or guardian’s signature if under 18
• Pay the applicable permit fee

Learn more about this process in How to Obtain a Learner's Permit in D.C. with a Step-by-Step Guide.

The learner’s permit is valid for two years, and drivers must hold it for at least six months without any violations before applying for the next stage.

Stage 2: Provisional License

After successfully completing the learner’s permit phase and logging at least 40 hours of supervised driving practice (10 of which must be at night), teens may apply for a provisional license.

Key Requirements

• Must be at least 16 years and 6 months old
• Hold learner’s permit for at least six months
• Submit a completed Certification of Eligibility for Provisional License form signed by a parent or guardian
• Pass the road skills test at a D.C. DMV location

Learn more at Requirements and Restrictions for Provisional Licenses in D.C..

Provisional License Restrictions

• No passengers under age 21 for the first six months (exceptions for family members)
• No driving between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. on weekdays or between 12 a.m. and 6 a.m. on weekends, unless for work, school, or religious activities
• No use of mobile phones or other handheld devices, even if hands-free

Violating these restrictions can delay progression to a full license or result in penalties.

Stage 3: Full Driver’s License

To graduate to a full license, the driver must:

• Be at least 17 years old
• Hold a provisional license for at least six months without violations
• Submit proof of continued good driving behavior

At this stage, all restrictions are lifted, and the driver is granted full driving privileges. However, it is important for new drivers to continue to follow all D.C. traffic laws and maintain safe driving habits.

Additional Resources

To support young drivers and their families through the licensing process, D.C. provides several helpful resources:

• Preparing for the D.C. DMV Knowledge Test
• What to Expect During the Road Skills Test in D.C.
• Teen Driving Safety Programs in D.C.

For the most current information, forms, and requirements, visit the official D.C. DMV website directly.