Senate and House agree
on young motorists bill

Senate and House conferees have agreed on a compromise bill that would establish a graduated driver licensing program for Hawaii youth under the age of 18.

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The bill, which addresses community concerns about young motorists, adds a third step to the driver licensing process by creating a restricted provisional license for 16- and 17-year-olds. Final approval is expected this week.

"This is a milestone," said Robert Lung, traffic administrative sergeant for the Honolulu Police Department, which pushed for the bill.

Currently, instructional permits can be issued at age 15 1/2, and full licenses can be obtained at age 16 if the permit has been held for six months.

Under the bill, the provisional license can be granted if the person has held an instructional permit for at least six months and has completed a driver's education course.

The provisional licensee cannot have more than one unrelated passenger under the age of 18 who is not a member of his or her household without being accompanied by a parent or guardian.