Battle Born Injury Lawyers | August 22, 2025 | Nevada Law
Getting a learner’s permit and driver’s license is a rite of passage for most Nevada teens. However, they are subject to some laws that differ from those of adult drivers.
Like many states, Nevada implements a graduated driver licensing program to ensure our teen drivers are adequately supported and prepared to drive independently. This program imposes legal restrictions on when and how teens can qualify for a license, thereby protecting them and other drivers on the road.
Nevada Teens Must Meet Criteria to Qualify for a License
The legal driving age for getting a minor’s license in Nevada is 16. However, per the graduated driver licensing program, you must first obtain an instructional permit once you are 15 and a half.
Some of the requirements for this permit and a teen license include the following:
- Proof of residence
- Birth certificate and Social Security card
- Certificate of Attendance from your school to show that you are attending without truancy issues
- Pass a vision test, a written knowledge test, and a driving skills test
- Drivers education course
- At least 50 hours of behind-the-wheel experience (including 10 hours at nighttime)
You are still subject to certain restrictions when you receive your learner’s permit or license as a minor.
Limitations for Teen Drivers
If you have your instructional permit, you are subject to several restrictions. The most significant requirement is that you must be accompanied by a licensed driver over the age of 21 in the front seat. Additionally, this driver must have at least one year of driving experience.
When you turn 16 and have had your instructional permit for at least six months, you are eligible to take your driving skills test as long as you have not had drug or alcohol convictions, at-fault accidents, or moving violations in the past six months.
Passenger Restrictions
Newly licensed teen drivers are subject to passenger restrictions for the first six months after obtaining a license. During this time, you may not drive passengers under 18, with the exception of immediate family. If you are found to violate this restriction, the restriction period may be extended, or repeat offenders may face fines.
Driving Curfews
Drivers under the age of 18 also face driving curfews in some local municipalities statewide. Statewide curfews prohibit minors from driving between the hours of 5 a.m. and 10 p.m. unless they are traveling to or from school or work. If law enforcement pulls you over, they may request evidence that you are traveling for permitted reasons.
Some areas, such as the Las Vegas Strip and Downtown or the Reno Gaming District, have earlier curfews unless an adult accompanies you. However, you can check with your local police department to determine your local curfews.
Blood Alcohol Levels
The typical driver over 21 is allowed up to a .08 blood alcohol level before they are considered legally drunk. However, for those under 21, you can face a DUI charge for a BAC of .02 or more, regardless of whether you are inebriated.
Nevada Driving Laws for Non-Minor Teens
Once you turn 18, you can update your license and drive without passenger or curfew restrictions. If you have already obtained an instructional permit and driver’s license, however, if you have not already gotten your license, you may choose to get a permit, or you can go ahead and sit for the driving skills test.
Teen Driving Laws Are Meant to Protect Nevada Drivers
Restrictions on teen drivers are meant to protect them and other drivers on the road as they learn. If you are the parent of a teen driver, it is critical to enforce these requirements. Knowingly allowing your teen to engage in reckless or illegal driving practices may expose you to vicarious liability if they cause an accident.
Contact Battle Born Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation With a Henderson Car Accident Lawyer
If you or your teen has been involved in a car accident in Nevada, our experienced Henderson car accident lawyers are here to help. We’ll explain your rights, guide you through the legal process, and fight for the compensation your family deserves.
Call Battle Born Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation.
Battle Born Injury Lawyers – Henderson Office
8540 S Eastern Ave #200
Henderson, NV 89123
(702) 500-0287
Battle Born Injury Lawyers – Downtown Las Vegas Office
400 S 4th St Suite 290,
Las Vegas, NV 89101
(702) 357-4868
Battle Born Injury Lawyers – Las Vegas Office
10789 W Twain Ave #100
Las Vegas, NV 89135
(702) 570-9000
Battle Born Injury Lawyers – Reno Office
675 W Moana Ln #206
Reno, NV 89509, USA
(775) 535-7768
