Parent-Teen Contract

The Parent-Teen Driving Agreement is a formal pact issued by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles to establish clear safety expectations and responsibilities for new drivers. It outlines specific promises the teen must keep, such as obeying all traffic laws, wearing seat belts, avoiding distractions like cell phones, and remaining alcohol and drug-free. The document also includes customizable sections for parents to set restrictions on night driving, passenger limits, and weather conditions, which can be modified as the teen gains experience.

The agreement emphasizes accountability by listing predetermined penalties for violations, ranging from several weeks to months of suspended driving privileges for offenses like speeding or violating curfews. Beyond safety, it addresses the practical aspects of vehicle ownership, requiring the teen to maintain good grades and contribute to costs like gasoline and insurance. Both parties sign the document to ensure mutual understanding, framing driving as a earned privilege that requires continuous demonstration of maturity and safe behavior.