The bill amends R.S.39:3-10 to strengthen the requirements for obtaining a driver's license and enhance road safety education for new drivers. Key provisions include a new requirement for applicants to demonstrate knowledge of their responsibilities when approaching and passing pedestrians and individuals on bicycles or personal conveyances, along with the associated penalties for non-compliance. The driver's license examination will now cover topics such as aggressive driving, the effects of alcohol and drugs on driving ability, and the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning. Additionally, the examination will be available in English and the three most commonly spoken languages in the state.

The bill also introduces specific provisions for motorcycle licenses and endorsements, allowing individuals who complete a motorcycle safety education course to receive an unrestricted license. It outlines the necessary documentation for obtaining a standard or REAL ID motorcycle license and grants the commission the authority to waive certain examination requirements for individuals over 18 with valid licenses from other jurisdictions. Furthermore, it establishes that all applicants for a standard basic driver's license must provide primary and secondary documents to prove their identity, age, and residence, and mandates proof of a social security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. The bill emphasizes safe driving practices in the driver education curriculum and requires the driver's manual to include information on sharing the roadway safely with non-motorized users. The act will take effect 13 months after its enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 27:5F-41
Advance Law: 27:5F-41