Connecticut driver training requirements, explained

The 120-day route. Complete a 30-hour classroom programme at a DMV-licensed commercial or secondary school, including the 8-hour Safe Driving Practices Course, plus at least 8 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction and 40 total hours of practice driving. Those 8 professional hours count toward the 40. Hold the permit at least 120 days before the road test.

The 180-day route. Complete 22 hours of classroom instruction at home plus the 8-hour Safe Driving Practices Course at a licensed school, and 40 hours of supervised practice with a qualified trainer. There is no minimum number of paid in-car lessons on this route. Hold the permit at least 180 days, 60 days longer than the driving-school route.

One parent or legal guardian must complete a two-hour training class at a commercial driving school, whichever route the teen takes. Without it the teen cannot be licensed until age 18. A qualified trainer supervising practice must be at least 20, have held a licence for four consecutive years with no suspensions, and be a parent, guardian, grandparent, foster parent or spouse of a married minor.

There is no separate Connecticut training category for under-21s. From 18 you are an adult applicant: get an adult learner's permit, hold it at least 90 days unless exempt, complete the 8-hour Safe Driving Practices Course at a licensed school, and pass the road test. No 30-hour course, no 40-hour practice minimum, no parent class, and no required in-car lesson package. Permit driving must still be supervised by a qualified trainer.

For the first six months a 16 or 17 year old may carry only a licensed instructor, a parent or guardian, or a qualified trainer. For the second six months immediate family may ride along too. Until 18 there is no driving between 11pm and 5am except for work, school, religious activities or medical necessity, and no phone use at all, including hands-free.