The bill amends the Michigan Vehicle Code to introduce new requirements for obtaining an operator's or chauffeur's license, effective January 1, 2027. All applicants will be required to complete a work zone safety education course approved by the department, covering essential topics such as navigating highway construction zones and safety precautions for both drivers and workers. This course must consist of at least 30 minutes of education, which can be delivered online or in-person as part of a driver education course. The secretary of state will verify the completion of this course before issuing a license, although waivers are available for applicants with valid licenses from other states or countries. The bill also updates language for clarity and inclusivity, maintaining existing requirements for driving skills and knowledge tests while establishing penalties for corrupting designated examining officers and forgery related to driving skills test certifications.

Additionally, the bill revises laws regarding graduated licensing for individuals under 21 years of age, clarifying that additional passengers under 21 are considered immediate family members and that the individual must be operating the vehicle during employment or authorized activities. It mandates the extension of provisional periods for graduated licensing in the event of certain violations, such as moving violations or accidents, and outlines the conditions for achieving level 3 graduated licensing status. The bill also introduces new definitions and requirements for notification regarding violations and emphasizes that individuals must carry their graduated licensing status while operating a vehicle. The definition of "authorized activity" is expanded to include various educational, sporting, vocational, and emergency transport activities, aiming to enhance the safety and accountability of young drivers.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 257.309, 257.310