Bill > SB00234

This bill, effective October 1, 2026, amends existing law to allow sixteen and seventeen-year-old drivers, who have held their operator's license for one year, to transport their siblings. Previously, this period was six months, and the law has been updated to remove restrictions on transporting any passenger except parents or legal guardians, a licensed driving instructor, or a qualified adult over twenty years old who has held a license for at least four years without suspension. The bill also clarifies that these young drivers cannot operate vehicles requiring a public passenger endorsement or a vanpool vehicle, must adhere to the number of seat belts in the vehicle, and have specific restrictions on transporting passengers on motorcycles or autocycles, as well as nighttime driving limitations unless traveling for employment, school, religious activities, or medical necessity. Exceptions to these passenger restrictions exist for active volunteer emergency responders or assigned drivers in sponsored Safe Ride programs. Violations of these provisions are considered infractions, with penalties including license suspension.

Transportation and Infrastructure

Transportation Committee (Joint)

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=SB00234&which_year=2026