Kentucky House Committee debates House Bill 15 allowing 15-year-olds to obtain driving permits

A significant step towards modernizing Kentucky's driving laws was taken during the Senate Standing Committee on Transportation meeting on March 5, 2025, as lawmakers discussed House Bill 15. This proposed legislation aims to lower the age for obtaining a learner's permit from 16 to 15, allowing teenagers to begin driving under supervised conditions earlier.

The committee adopted a substitute version of the bill, which maintains the current graduated driver's license system, requiring drivers to be 17 before obtaining a full license. This change is designed to provide 15-year-olds with the opportunity to gain valuable driving experience while still under parental supervision. Proponents argue that this will not only enhance the skills of young drivers but also support local economies by enabling teens to access job opportunities more easily.

Brooks Clark Young, a 14-year-old from Franklin County, provided compelling testimony in favor of the bill. He emphasized that allowing 15-year-olds to drive would help them develop essential life skills and better manage their responsibilities, such as schoolwork and part-time jobs. Young highlighted the benefits for families and local businesses, stating that increased mobility for teens would contribute positively to the community.

Several committee members expressed their support, noting that Kentucky is currently one of the few states that does not allow 15-year-olds to obtain permits. They pointed out that aligning Kentucky's laws with neighboring states could encourage responsible driving habits among young people. The discussions also touched on the importance of parental involvement in the learning process, with the bill ensuring that only family members or guardians can supervise new drivers.

As the committee moves forward with House Bill 15, it is clear that this legislation could reshape the driving landscape for Kentucky's youth, fostering greater independence while promoting safety and responsibility on the roads. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential voting in the Senate, with advocates hopeful for a positive outcome that benefits both young drivers and the broader community.