Legislation To Give Parents Online Access to Teen Driving Records Moves To Governor's Desk
Legislation initiated by Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White that will allow parents or guardians access to the driving records of their teenagers via the Internet was approved by the state Senate and now awaits the governor's signature.
Under the proposal (HB 518), sponsored by Rep. John D'Amico (D-Chicago) and Sen. John Cullerton (D-Chicago), parents and guardians can view their teenagers' driving record for free online. Parents will be able to access the youth's record until he or she turns 18 years old.
"I would like to thank the Illinois General Assembly for approving this legislation," White said. "By giving adults access to their child's driving record, we are giving them a tool to keep them more involved in their teenagers' driving patterns as they proceed through the Graduated Driver's License program."
A successful Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program increases driving privileges for safe and responsible drivers in a gradual fashion, while simultaneously identifying those drivers who display dangerous or reckless driving habits. Safe teen drivers will gradually see their driving restrictions ease accordingly as they move from one stage to the next under GDL. Parental involvement is a critical component of any successful GDL program.
Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for people age 15 to 20. Several recent studies concluded comprehensive GDL programs reduce teen traffic fatalities.
White has also initiated new legislation (SB 172) that would strengthen Illinois' GDL program and enhance the safety of young, novice drivers. The bill gives teens more time to obtain valuable driving experience while under the watchful eye of a parent or guardian, limits in-car distractions, and requires the teens to earn their way from one stage to the next by avoiding traffic convictions.
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