Motor Vehicles - Driver's Licenses - Eligibility

SB 856 amends Maryland's driver's license eligibility requirements for provisional and original licenses. It lowers the minimum age for provisional licenses from 16 years 6 months to 16 years (with a 9-month waiting period after obtaining a learner's permit), adjusts age thresholds from 19 to 18 years for certain requirements, and modifies driving practice rules - including reducing nighttime driving hours for some age groups. The bill directly affects teen drivers (under 18) and young drivers aged 18-24, requiring specific classroom instruction, supervised driving hours, and night driving practice. These changes apply to all applicants seeking their first driver's license through the standard pathway.