Arizona bill could allow 15-year-olds to get driver’s permit
Jan 29, 2016, 11:42 AM
PHOENIX — An Arizona lawmaker wants to allow 15-year-olds to get a driver’s permit, but the bill she’s sponsoring is meeting resistance from the insurance industry.
Rep. Kelly Townsend’s House Bill 2080 would amend an existing law that says a teen can get a learner’s permit at 151/2.
The East Valley Tribune reported that Townsend was working to make changes to the bill before resubmitting to the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.
Townsend said, “… this is giving Arizona teenagers an additional six months of practice.”
Applicants need only pass a written test to qualify for a permit. Once they pass, someone 21 or older has to be in the car with them when they drive.
Drivers still have to be 16 before they can apply for a license.
According to statistics from the Governor’s Highway Safety Association, 23 states issue learner’s permits to 15-year-olds.
