Can you drive alone with a permit? (2024)
A top question readers ask: "Can you drive alone with a permit?" No state allows driving with a learner's permit alone, as most require a licensed driver who's 21+ in the car. You'll face fines and suspension if caught driving alone with a permit. Learn more about what happens if you drive with only a permit.
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Heidi Mertlich
Licensed Insurance Agent
Heidi works with top-rated insurance carriers to bring her clients the highest quality protection at the most competitive prices. She founded NoPhysicalTermLife.com, specializing in life insurance that doesn’t require a medical exam. Heidi is a regular contributor to several insurance websites, including FinanceBuzz.com, Insurist.com, and Forbes. As a parent herself, she understands the need ...
Licensed Insurance Agent
UPDATED: Sep 3, 2024
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Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
UPDATED: Sep 3, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
On This Page
Can you drive alone with a permit? No state allows driving with a permit alone, though permit rules vary by state.
So, you may wonder, “Can you drive with a permit over 21?” No, permit drivers over 21 can’t drive alone, though some states may offer leniency to older drivers. For instance, Colorado drivers over 21 can take a road test immediately after getting a permit.
We’ll overview more rules about driving alone with a permit, including what happens if you drive alone with a permit. You can also enter your ZIP code into our free quote comparison tool above to find cheap auto insurance for learner’s permit drivers.
- Driving alone with a learner’s permit is illegal in all 50 states
- You need to be accompanied by a licensed driver when driving with a permit
- Most states restrict the number of passengers allowed in the car with permit drivers
Driving With a Learner’s Permit Alone
Can you drive by yourself with a permit? There is no U.S. state where you can drive alone with a permit.
All states require drivers with learner’s permits to have a licensed adult driver in the passenger seat since the goal of your permit is for experienced drivers to help you practice ahead of your driver’s test.Kristen Gryglik Licensed Insurance Agent
Even if you’re over 18, you can’t drive alone if you haven’t passed your driving test. Now, we’ll discuss what happens if you get caught driving with a permit alone.
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Punishment for Driving Alone With a Permit
Driving alone without a permit or license is illegal, so what happens if you drive with a permit alone? Law enforcement considers you an unlicensed driver if caught driving alone before getting your driver’s license. The officer who pulls you over can write you a citation or impose other consequences depending on your local laws.
The table below lists each state’s penalties for driving alone with a learner’s permit:
Driving Alone With a Permit: Penalties by State
| States | Penalties |
|---|---|
| Alabama | Fines up to $200, 30-day permit suspension |
| Alaska | Fines up to $500, community service required |
| Arizona | Mandatory driver's education, 60-day permit suspension |
| Arkansas | Fines up to $150, mandatory driver's education |
| California | Fines up to $250, 1-month permit suspension, additional driving hours |
| Colorado | Fines up to $300, permit revocation |
| Connecticut | Fines up to $200, 45-day permit suspension, driver's education |
| Delaware | Community service, mandatory driver's education |
| Washington, D.C. | Fines up to $300, 30-day permit suspension |
| Florida | Fines up to $500, permit revocation, mandatory driver's education |
| Georgia | Fines up to $150, 60-day permit suspension |
| Hawaii | Fines up to $100, mandatory driver's education, community service |
| Idaho | Fines up to $250, driver's education |
| Illinois | Fines up to $200, 30-day permit suspension, community service |
| Indiana | Fines up to $300, mandatory driver's education, additional driving hours |
| Iowa | Community service, 90-day permit suspension |
| Kansas | Fines up to $200, mandatory driver's education |
| Kentucky | Fines up to $250, 60-day permit suspension |
| Louisiana | Fines up to $300, permit revocation, driver's education |
| Maine | Community service, 30-day permit suspension |
| Maryland | Fines up to $500, mandatory driver's education, community service |
| Massachusetts | Fines up to $200, 90-day permit suspension |
| Michigan | Fines up to $250, mandatory driver's education |
| Minnesota | Fines up to $300, permit suspension, additional driving hours |
| Mississippi | Fines up to $150, community service |
| Missouri | Fines up to $200, 30-day permit suspension, driver's education |
| Montana | Community service, 60-day permit suspension |
| Nebraska | Fines up to $250, mandatory driver's education, community service |
| Nevada | Fines up to $300, 30-day permit suspension |
| New Hampshire | Fines up to $200, driver's education |
| New Jersey | Fines up to $500, 90-day permit suspension, mandatory driver's education |
| New Mexico | Fines up to $150, 60-day permit suspension |
| New York | Fines up to $300, mandatory driver's education, community service |
| North Carolina | Fines up to $250, permit revocation |
| North Dakota | Community service, mandatory driver's education |
| Ohio | Fines up to $200, 45-day permit suspension |
| Oklahoma | Fines up to $150, 30-day permit suspension, driver's education |
| Oregon | Community service, 60-day permit suspension |
| Pennsylvania | Fines up to $300, mandatory driver's education |
| Rhode Island | Fines up to $250, 30-day permit suspension, additional driving hours |
| South Carolina | Fines up to $200, permit revocation, community service |
| South Dakota | Fines up to $100, 60-day permit suspension |
| Tennessee | Fines up to $300, mandatory driver's education, community service |
| Texas | Fines up to $500, 90-day permit suspension |
| Utah | Fines up to $250, community service, driver's education |
| Vermont | Community service, 30-day permit suspension |
| Virginia | Fines up to $350, permit revocation, mandatory driver's education |
| Washington | Fines up to $400, 60-day permit suspension, additional driving hours |
| West Virginia | Fines up to $200, 45-day permit suspension, driver's education |
| Wisconsin | Fines up to $250, community service, permit revocation |
| Wyoming | Fines up to $300, mandatory driver's education, 60-day permit suspension |
Some jurisdictions may count this citation as a driving infraction that could postpone when you can get your license. In addition, you could face higher auto insurance rates.
Read More: Factors That Affect Auto Insurance Rates
If you get into an accident driving alone with a permit, you may also have to pay out of pocket for damages. Your insurance policy likely won’t cover an unlicensed driver.
To avoid fines and problems with your driver’s license, follow all the rules for driving with a permit in your state.
Other Requirements for Driving With a Permit
Most states require a licensed driver over the age of 21 to accompany you in the passenger seat while driving with a permit. Some states have other requirements for accompanying, like years of driving experience. They may also restrict the number and age of the other passengers in the car while you’re driving.
The following states require drivers with a learner’s permit to have an accompanying driver who is at least 25 years old in the passenger seat:
- California
- Delaware
- Indiana
- Missouri
- Wisconsin
These states require the accompanying driver to be a parent, legal guardian, or certified driving instructor:
- Connecticut
- Massachusetts
- Vermont
Montana, North Dakota, and Wyoming allow 18-year-old licensed drivers to accompany drivers with permits. In Maine, the accompanying driver must be at least 20.
Most states restrict the number of passengers new drivers can have to mitigate injuries from accidents. In addition, states usually prohibit learning drivers from having non-family members as passengers or restrict the age and number of non-family passengers you can have.
Several states also require the accompanying driver to have between one and five years of driving experience to instruct you as a new driver properly.
When you get your learner’s permit, check your state’s rules for who needs to accompany you while driving. Following these rules will manage your insurance coverage and avoid fines or penalties for driving without a license.
Why You Can’t Drive Alone With a Permit
So, what happens if you drive with a permit alone? It’s always illegal to drive alone with a permit, even if you have an adult permit. If you drive without a qualified driver before getting your license, you’re considered an unlicensed driver and could face citations or fines.
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Get familiar with your state’s rules on driving with a permit so you can avoid fines, maintain your insurance coverage, and keep yourself and other drivers safe.
To find coverage from the cheapest auto insurance companies near you, just enter your ZIP code into our free online quote tool below.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive alone with a permit?
New drivers may wonder, “Can I drive by myself with a permit?” No, all states require permit holders to be accompanied by a licensed adult who’s 21 or older.
What happens if you get caught driving without a license but with a permit?
So, you might be asking, “What happens if you drive alone with a learner’s permit?” The answer varies by state, but generally, you face fines, permit suspension, and higher rates.
Can I drive a rental car with a learner’s permit?
Rental car companies typically require the driver to have a valid driver’s license. As a result, it’s unlikely that you would be able to rent a car with only a learner’s permit. Contact rental car companies directly to inquire about their specific policies.
So, if a licensed driver rents the vehicle for me, can I drive myself around with a permit? No, you’ll still need to be accompanied by a licensed adult if you’re driving with only a permit.
Can I drive a motorcycle with a learner’s permit?
The ability to ride a motorcycle with a learner’s permit varies by state. Some states offer separate motorcycle learner’s permits, while others may require you to have a regular driver’s permit or license before operating a motorcycle. Review your state’s regulations to determine the requirements for motorcycle riding with a learner’s permit.
However, if my state offers motorcycle learner’s permits, can I drive with a permit alone on a motorcycle? No, you’ll still need to be accompanied by a licensed adult in all states.
Can you drive on your own with a permit if it’s an international permit?
So, you may wonder, “If I have an international permit, can I drive with a permit by myself in the United States?”
The rules for driving alone with an international learner’s permit depend on the state you are in. Some states may recognize and allow driving with an international permit alone, while others may require an accompanying licensed driver. It’s crucial to check the specific regulations of the state where you will be driving.
Can I drive on highways with a learner’s permit?
Highway driving regulations for permit holders differ by state. Some states allow permit holders to drive on highways, while others may have restrictions or prohibitions. It’s important to familiarize yourself with your state’s rules regarding highway driving with a learner’s permit.
If my state allows permit holders to drive on highways, can you drive with a permit by yourself on them? Permit holders in the U.S. always need a licensed adult to accompany them, even if driving on a highway.
Can I drive with a learner’s permit if I have a visual impairment?
The ability to drive with a learner’s permit for individuals with visual impairments varies by state. Some states may have specific vision requirements that must be met, while others may prohibit individuals with certain visual impairments from obtaining a permit. Check your state’s regulations and consult with your eye care professional.
Can I drive with a learner’s permit if I’m a non-U.S. citizen?
Non-U.S. citizens may be eligible to obtain a learner’s permit depending on their immigration status and the state’s regulations. Some states may require additional documentation, such as an international driver’s license or proof of legal presence. Consult your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles for specific requirements.
So what happens if you get caught driving with a permit by yourself as a non-U.S. citizen? Non-U.S. citizens who drive by themselves with a permit could negatively impact their legal status or even face deporation in some circumstances.
Can you drive alone with a learner’s permit in an emergency?
You might also wonder, “Can I drive alone with a learner’s permit in an emergency?” Even during emergencies, driving on a learner’s permit alone is illegal. It’s advisable to call emergency services to get help rather than risk driving alone.
Can you drive by yourself with a permit over 18?
So, can you drive by yourself with a permit at 18? Driving alone with a permit over 18 is still illegal, though there may be fewer restrictions in some states for permit drivers older than 18.
Can you drive alone with a permit in SC over 18?
All South Carolina permit drivers must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21, regardless of age.
Read More: South Carolina Auto Insurance
So what happens if you drive by yourself with a permit in South Carolina? You could face fines, permit suspension, and higher rates.
Can you drive alone with a permit at 18 in Rhode Island?
You may be wondering, “Can you drive alone with a permit in RI if you’re 18?” No, permit drivers in Rhode Island must be accompanied by a licensed driver over 21 who has held a driver’s license for at least five years.
Read More: Rhode Island Auto Insurance
What happens if you drive with just a permit alone in Rhode Island though? Permit drivers in RI who drive alone face fines, driving record points, permit suspension, and higher rates.
Can you drive alone with a permit in Missouri?
No, permit drivers in MO can’t drive by themselves, as they must be accompanied by a driver who is at least 21.
Read More: Missouri Auto Insurance
How much trouble for driving with a permit alone can you get into in Missouri? Permit drivers face fines, driving record points, permit suspension, and the requirement to retake the permit test if they drive in Missouri alone.
Can you drive alone with a permit in California?
No, California permit drivers can’t drive alone, and must be accompanied by someone who:
- Is at least 25 years or older
- Carries a valid California driver’s license
- Sits in the front passenger seat
Read More: California Auto Insurance
However, can an adult drive alone with a permit in California? California drivers, regardless of age, can’t drive alone with a permit.
Can I drive alone with a permit at 21?
Can you drive by yourself with a permit over 21? No, driving alone with a permit over 21 isn’t allowed in any state.
Can you drive alone with a permit in New York if you’re 21?
No, driving alone with a permit over 21 in NY is illegal. You must have a licensed driver over 21 in the front passenger seat if you’re driving with a permit.
Read More: New York Auto Insurance
Can you drive alone with a permit in Virginia if you’re over 21?
No, driving alone with a permit over 21 in Virginia is still illegal.
Read More: Virginia Auto Insurance
So what happens if you get caught driving alone with a learner’s permit in VA? You could face fines, points on your driving record, and permit suspension.
Is driving alone with a learner’s permit allowed in New Jersey if you’re 21?
Driving alone with a permit over 21 in NJ is not permitted.
Read More: New Jersey Auto Insurance
Can I drive alone with a permit in Massachusetts if I’m 21?
No, driving alone with a permit over 21 in Massachusetts isn’t allowed.
Read More: Massachusetts Auto Insurance
Free Auto Insurance Comparison
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
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Heidi Mertlich
Licensed Insurance Agent
Heidi works with top-rated insurance carriers to bring her clients the highest quality protection at the most competitive prices. She founded NoPhysicalTermLife.com, specializing in life insurance that doesn’t require a medical exam. Heidi is a regular contributor to several insurance websites, including FinanceBuzz.com, Insurist.com, and Forbes. As a parent herself, she understands the need ...
Licensed Insurance Agent
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.