“ASK A TROOPER” by Sgt. Jesse Grabow of the Minnesota State Patrol

Question: My son just took his driver’s education class this summer. I started looking through his books and I was surprised how much has changed since I got my driver’s license 20 year ago. I really couldn’t believe it. How did I miss all the new changes? Can you talk about that? Thanks!

Answer: This is a great topic as all parents need to take an active role in their teen driver’s education.  Since 2015, all Minnesota driver education providers (schools) must offer a “Supplemental Parental Curriculum” to any parent/guardian who chooses to the course. The course helps provide the information concerning graduated driver licensing, safety risks associated with novice drivers, potential influence of adults on novice driver behaviors, and additional resources.

Common Teen Driving Laws

• For the first six months of licensure: Only one passenger under age 20 is permitted, unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• For the second six months of licensure: No more than three passengers under age 20 are permitted, unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• Exemption: Passengers under age 20 who are members of the driver’s immediate family are permitted.
• Parents are encouraged to set stricter passenger limits for their newly licensed teen by not allowing any teen passengers for the first six-months of licensure, and no more than one for the second six-months.

Minnesota’s nighttime limits for teens:

• For the first six months of licensure: Driving is prohibited midnight – 5 a.m.
• Exemptions: Driving when accompanied by a licensed driver age 25 or older; driving between home and place of employment; driving to/from home and a school event for which the school has not provided transportation; driving for employment purposes.
• More than half of all fatal crashes that occur at night and involve 16-year olds happen before midnight. Parents are encouraged to set stricter nighttime driving limits for their newly licensed teen beginning at 9 or 10 p.m.

Due to inexperience, distractions and risk-taking, teens are a part of an unfortunate group of drivers in Minnesota statistically speaking.  In 2019, teens (15-19) made up just 6 percent of all licensed drivers. Yet, they made up 16 percent of all drivers involved in traffic crashes. As parents, it’s important to continue educating and driving with your teen driver, even after they receive their license. Together we can help our teen drivers get home safely at the end of the day.

A portion of state statutes were used with permission from the Office of the Revisor of Statutes. If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Trp. Jesse Grabow – Minnesota State Patrol at 1000 Highway 10 West, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501-2205.  (You can follow him on Twitter @MSPPIO_NW or reach him at, jesse.grabow@state.mn.us).