Kentucky Lowers Permit Age to 15: What Parents and Teens Need to Know

As personal injury attorneys, we see firsthand how traffic laws impact public safety. With House Bill 15 (KRS 186.450) now signed into law, Kentucky has officially lowered the minimum age for a driver’s instruction permit from 16 to 15 years old. While this change brings new opportunities for families, it also raises important questions about teen driver safety.

At Mory & Colliersmith, PLLC, we advocate for safe driving practices and want to ensure parents and teens understand how this new law affects them.

What Does House Bill 15 Change?

This legislation, signed by Governor Andy Beshear on March 25, 2025, aligns Kentucky’s driving laws with neighboring states like Indiana and Ohio. Here’s what you need to know:

• Permit Eligibility – Teens as young as 15 can now apply for an instruction permit.

• Permit Validity – The permit is valid for four years.

• Practice Requirements – Permit holders must complete 60 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night, with a licensed driver who is 21 or older.

• Intermediate License – After six months of holding a permit and meeting practice requirements, teens can apply for an intermediate license.

For many families, this law provides flexibility—allowing teens to gain driving experience earlier and helping parents with transportation needs. But what does this mean for road safety?

How Does This Impact Teen Driver Safety?

As personal injury attorneys, we know that young, inexperienced drivers face a higher risk of accidents. According to the CDC, teen drivers are nearly three times more likely than older drivers to be involved in a fatal crash per mile driven.

Common risk factors include:

• Distractions – Phones, passengers, and even changing the radio can take a teen's focus off the road.

• Inexperience – Poor decision-making in high-speed or hazardous situations can lead to preventable crashes.

• Night Driving – Studies show that young drivers are three times more likely to have a fatal accident at night than during the day.

• Not Wearing Seat Belts – Teens have the lowest seatbelt usage rate, increasing the risk of severe injuries.

  
  

What Parents Should Do to Keep Teens Safe on the Road With New Permit Age

While this law makes it possible for younger teens to start driving, parents play a critical role in ensuring their safety. Here are some steps you can take:

• Set Clear Rules – Establish driving agreements about passenger limits, phone use, and curfews.

• Practice, Practice, Practice – Use the required 60 hours of supervised driving to expose your teen to highways, rain, night driving, and other real-world conditions.

• Lead by Example – If you text and drive, they will too. Model safe driving behavior at all times.

• Consider a Defensive Driving Course – Advanced training can reduce crash risks and improve emergency reaction time.

• Know the Law – While the permit age changes, Kentucky’s graduated licensing program still applies. Teens must meet all requirements before getting full driving privileges.

Teen Drivers and Personal Injury Claims: What You Need to Know

If your teen is involved in an accident—whether they’re at fault or the victim—the legal and insurance implications can be complicated. Here’s what you should know:

🔹 Liability Matters – If a teen driver causes a crash, their parents may be held financially responsible under Kentucky law.

🔹 Insurance Adjusters Look for Weaknesses – Be cautious with statements to insurance companies. They may try to reduce or deny your claim based on what you say.

🔹 Brain Injuries and Young Drivers – Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) are among the most serious consequences of car accidents. If your child suffers a head injury, seek medical attention immediately and consult a personal injury attorney.

We’re Here to Help Kentucky Families

At Mory & Colliersmith, PLLC, we understand the excitement—and concern—that comes with having a new teen driver in your home. While House Bill 15 gives younger teens the ability to drive, safety should remain the top priority.

If your family is involved in a car accident, our experienced personal injury attorneys are here to fight for your rights and ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.

📞 Call us at (502) 212-4333 🌐 Visit us online at MoryColliersmith.com