Requirements and Restrictions for Provisional Licenses in D.C.

Washington, D.C. issues provisional licenses to help new drivers gain experience under controlled conditions. This stage is part of the District’s Graduated Licensing Program, designed to reduce high-risk driving behaviors among novice drivers. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DC DMV) outlines specific eligibility requirements, documentation, and usage restrictions for all provisional license holders.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for a provisional license in D.C., an applicant must:

• Be at least 16 years old.
• Hold a valid learner’s permit for at least six months.
• Have no violations or at-fault accidents during the learner’s permit phase.
• Complete a certified driver education course approved by the DC DMV.
• Pass a road skills test administered by the DC DMV.

Proof of completion for a driver education course must include both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training. How to Obtain a Driver's License in Washington, D.C. offers more detail on the steps involved.

Required Documentation

Applicants must present:

• Proof of identity (e.g., U.S. birth certificate or passport)
• Proof of Social Security number
• Two documents showing D.C. residency
• Proof of legal presence (for non-citizens)
• Certificate of driver education course completion

All documents must be original or certified copies.

Provisional License Restrictions

Once issued, a provisional license comes with several key restrictions, which remain in effect for at least six months:

• Curfew: No driving between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. Sunday through Thursday, or 12:01 a.m. to 6 a.m. on weekends, unless accompanied by a licensed adult over 21 or for employment/school-related purposes.
• Passenger Limitations: Only one passenger under 21 years old (who is not a sibling) is allowed unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• Mobile Devices: Absolutely no use of cell phones or other electronic devices, even with hands-free technology.
• Seat Belts: All occupants must wear seat belts, and the driver is responsible for ensuring compliance.

Failure to follow these restrictions may result in penalties or suspension of the provisional license.

Maintaining the Provisional License

To move from a provisional license to a full driver's license, the holder must:

• Hold the provisional license for at least six months without traffic convictions.
• Complete at least 40 hours of supervised driving.
• Submit a signed certification of driving hours to the DC DMV.

Learn more about Key Traffic Laws Every DC Driver Should Know to avoid violations that could delay your licensing progress.

Penalties for Violations

Any violation of the provisional license terms—such as breaking curfew, carrying unauthorized passengers, or using a mobile phone while driving—can lead to:

• Suspension or revocation of the license
• Extension of the provisional period
• Required participation in a driver improvement program

The DC DMV enforces these rules strictly to ensure road safety. Navigating DC's Point System for Traffic Violations provides insight into how infractions can impact your license.

Additional Considerations

If your license is suspended or revoked during the provisional phase, you must reapply for the license and fulfill all previous requirements again. It’s also important to be aware of updates in local laws, like those from Understanding DC's New STEER Act and Its Impact on Drivers, which may introduce stricter penalties for reckless behavior.

Stay informed and compliant to transition smoothly from a provisional to a full license and develop lifelong safe driving habits.