Last year, legislators passed a law amending California’s graduated licensing laws for minors acquiring a driver’s license.

Effective since the beginning of the year, the new restrictions implemented by the Department of Motor Vehicles revise the Brady- Jared Teen Driver Safety Act of 1997.

The new restrictions extend the period, during which licensed drivers are subject to a curfew and are not allowed to transport anyone under the age of 20 unless accompanied by an adult over 25, from six to 12 months.

Under previous restrictions, the curfew was in effect from 12 midnight to 5 a.m. The new restrictions change the curfew to start at 11 p.m. instead of midnight.

Exceptions to the restrictions are still in effect. The student can drive in situations of medical or employment necessity, immediate needs of family members or school activities. Another exemption to the rule is transporting siblings with written parental consent.