Components of GDL

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The components of GDL and how they are implemented vary from state to state. Make sure you familiarize yourself with your state laws.

Extended Learner’s Permit Holding Periods

The most effective GDL systems limit high risk driving for the first few months or years following driver licensing and delay licensing until teens are somewhat older. Longer learner permit holding periods can reduce crashes. An extended learner period provides more time to practice and gain driving experience.

Night Driving Restrictions

Factors contributing to night time crashes include:

• Inexperience with night driving (and driving, in general).
• Lower visibility, including the glare of oncoming headlights.
• Being in a vehicle with teen passengers – who cause distractions and may encourage risk-taking behaviors.
• Fatigue.
• Alcohol and/or drug use.

Night restrictions help protect teen drivers by keeping them from driving without supervision during high-risk hours. After a learner’s permit period of at least 6 months, teens are typically given restricted licenses that often limit unsupervised night driving.

Passenger Restrictions

Passenger restrictions are a key feature of GDL systems. Restrictions limit the number of passengers a teen driver may have in their vehicle. Why limit passengers?

• Passengers can cause distractions.
• Passengers may influence risk-taking behaviors of young and inexperienced drivers (and teen drivers may overestimate their driving ability).
• Alcohol and other drug use may be more likely to affect attention and decision-making when one or more passengers are present.

Both night driving restrictions and passenger restrictions have been shown to reduce crash risk for teen drivers. Research findings suggest that passenger restrictions are violated more frequently than night driving restrictions.

Other components that support GDL effectiveness include:

Cell Phone Restrictions

Cell phone distractions pose great risks for teen drivers. Drivers using cell phones may:

• Take their eyes off the road when dialing.
• Become so absorbed in conversations that concentration on driving is affected – risking the safety of passengers and pedestrians.
• Be tempted to text message and become distracted.

Safety Belt Use Requirements

Many GDL laws either include safety belt use provisions or provide for consequences if a safety belt violation occurs.

Contingent Advancement

In some areas, violations of any driving law delays advancing to the next licensing level. Advancing is dependent upon having a violation-free driving record.

One way to include elements of GDL in your approach is to use a Parent / Teen Driving Agreement.

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