For many students, the age they looked forward to the most was 16. It meant more freedom coming to them since it was the age that teens were allowed to apply for a driver’s permit in Kentucky. However, KY law recently changed and lowered the age for getting a permit to 15, and students have mixed feelings about it. Some see it as a positive step towards greater freedom and independence, while others express concerns about the readiness of 15-year-olds to handle driving responsibilities.
Governor Andy Beshear signed the new law on March 25th, 2025 allowing 15-year-olds to apply for a learners permit in Kentucky, then after one year of practice they can continue the process of getting their intermediate, then full license. The law went into effect immediately, and KY joined the majority of the states in the US allow teens to receive a driver’s permit at 15, The law aims to provide teenagers with more opportunities to gain driving experience under the supervision of a licensed driver. The new law is expected to benefit rural areas, where public transportation options may be limited, where teenagers often need to drive to school, work or extracurricular activities. The new law has sparked a lively debate in Kentucky, highlighting the complex interplay between individual freedoms, public safety, and societal expectations.
Many students see the lowered permit age as a positive step towards greater freedom and independence, potentially enabling them to get jobs and participate in more activities. Others support the change and believe that starting driving practice earlier can lead to better and safer driving habits in the long run. Freshman Colt Delimpo is about to hit the road soon with his permit and said, “I think this law is a game-changer for kids my age. It means we can start driving to school or to part-time jobs earlier, which will be a huge help for families who struggle with transportation. Plus, having more time to practice driving under our belts will definitely make us safer drivers in the long run.”
Some that were opposed to the change worry about the increased risk of accidents and the potential for distracted driving among younger, less experienced drivers as well as the concerns about the maturity and responsibility levels of 15-year-olds and their ability to handle the pressures and risks associated with driving. Sophomore Sierra Hurst understands the dangers that could possibly come from this new law. Hurst stated, “I am worried that this law is going to make our roads more dangerous. Let’s be real– 15 year olds are already trying to balance school, social media, and friends – do we really need to add driving to the list? I think most of us aren’t emotionally or mentally ready for that level of responsibility just yet.”
Parents play a crucial role in ensuring their children are adequately trained and prepared to drive safely. The law has sparked a mix of reactions, with some parents and individuals expressing concern about the potential risks associated with younger drivers on the road, while others see it as a way to give teens more experience and opportunity to practice driving in a controlled environment.
Kari Dacsher is the mother of three students, two of which have attended GCHS. Dasher explained “Governor Beshear’s recently signed law allowing 15-year-olds to apply for a learners permit in Kentucky has been a big topic of conversation at our house. It is wild to think that Scarlett, our youngest, is that much closer to driving. To be honest, I do not have a clear-cut opinion on the subject, but I am definitely hopeful that the new law will lead to better long-term driving skills. After a whole year of practicing focusing on the potential pros and cons is key when making that decision that is for your child’s best interest and giving them the permission starting earlier might lead to better long-term driving skills-especially if paired with strong training programs/guardian support, but not every 15 or 16-year-old has the emotional or cognitive maturity to handle the responsibility of driving safely.”
Even with all of the new exciting opportunities and changes, teens will still need to complete 60 hours of supervised driving practice, including 10 hours of night driving, before they can get their intermediate license. At the end of the day our students and children’s safety is the main priority.
