I appreciated the space allocated to teen drivers and the actions being taken to reduce their risks when behind the wheel. There have been many changes to the driver instruction and licensing process recently and as a result there is confusion. I would like to clarify information regarding the process of obtaining a driver’s permit and the rules associated with it. The article was written with information that, although accurate for some states, was not accurate for Maine.

In Maine, 15-year-olds may enroll in Drivers Education and receive a permit as soon as they successfully complete the 30 hours of classroom instruction and 10 hours of behind-the-wheel-instruction. They do not have to be 15A?1?2 as was reported. To take the driver’s license test, teens must be at least 16 and have had their permit for at least six months, not three months, as was reported. A person under 18 who has been issued a driver’s license is prohibited from carrying passengers other than immediate family members unless accompanied by a licensed operator who has held a valid driver’s license for two years, is at least 20 years old and occupies the seat beside the driver and is licensed to operate that class of vehicle.

This driver may not operate a motor vehicle between midnight and 5 a.m. This driver may not operate while using a mobile telephone. These restrictions are for six months, not two years as was reported.

As a local driver educator I want to thank all the parents who take an active role in teaching their children to drive. The driving example the parent sets will influence the child’s driving behavior. The state can pass restrictions, but it is the parent who drives with purpose and with a positive attitude who will make our children safer.

Rick Soules

Driving Forces

Scarborough