Teenage drivers are up to 20 times more likely to have an accident than adult drivers. Parents must make clear to teens that driving is a privilege, not a right. Experts urge parents to clearly define the expectations and requirements associated with being allowed to drive, and the consequences for violating them.

Require young drivers to sign a contract accepting the conditions, and stick to them.

Get Started

• Make sure parents or guardians agree on the terms of a driving contract before it’s presented to the teen.
• Let your teenager know you’re determined to have the contract taken seriously. Insist that no future driving occur until the contract is signed.
• Some of the contract details may require negotiation, but make sure your teen’s safety remains the primary motivation of the contract.
• When the contract is signed, keep a copy and give one to your teenager. Insist that the contract be in the car whenever the teenager is driving (as a reminder of their promise to you).
• If your teen driver breaches the contract, take away the keys. You may consider re-instating the contract after a reasonable period of time and after discussion with your young driver about the consequences of their actions.

A Sample Contract

This sample contract, produced by Dale Wisely, Ph.D., provides a good starting point. Use this version or revise it as necessary.

	Download as PDF file
	Download as MS Word Document

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