Joshua's Law Requirements

Teen Driver Education - Senate Bill 226 also known as "Joshua's Law" requires 16 and 17 years old to do the following to get a Georgia Driver’s License:

If you are 16 years of age, applying for a Class D License or Motorcycle Permit (Class MP): 

You must complete an approved driver education course with a certified private or public driver training school using one of the following methods. Approved classes are also offered online.  You must also complete each item in the method you choose.

  • Method 1

    • 30 hours of classroom instruction
    • 6 hours behind the wheel training at the certified school
    • 40 hours of supervised driving with a parent or guardian (6 hours of the 40 hours must be at night)

  • Method 2

  • Method 3

    • 30 hours of online instruction with a certified virtual program
    • 6 hours behind the wheel training at a certified school
    • 40 hours of supervised driving with a parent or guardian (6 hours of the 40 hours must be at night) 

  • Method 4

If you are 17 years of age, applying for a Class D License or Motorcycle Permit (Class MP), on or after July 1, 2021:

If you are 17 and enlisted in the military: 

Please keep in mind:

  • The DDS-approved driver education courses are offered by various high schools and private driving schools. Prices generally start at around $250. DDS has also approved online virtual programs. Online Virtual programs are lower in cost. For a list of approved schools visit Driver Training Schools.
  • All teens must hold a learner's permit for 1 year and 1 day before being issued a Class D license. A learner’s permit is required for the behind-the-wheel training.
  • A driving log is not required for supervised driving or parent-taught behind-the-wheel training. But, a parent or guardian must be present when applying for the license at DDS. The parent will be required to attest to the teen’s completion of this training.

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