Oregon Driving Laws: A Complete Guide

Minimum Driving Age

• Provisional Instruction Permit: Available at 15 years old.
• Provisional Driver License: Eligible at 16 years old, after holding a permit for at least 6 months and completing required training.
• Unrestricted License: Available at 18 years old.

Learner’s Permit Rules (Provisional Instruction Permit)

• Supervision: Must be accompanied by a licensed driver aged 21 or older seated in the front passenger seat.
• Holding Period: Must hold the permit for 6 months before applying for a provisional license.
• Practice Hours:
  • 100 hours of supervised driving; or
  • 50 hours if completing an approved driver education course.
• Cell Phone Use: Prohibited for all drivers under 18, including hands-free devices.

License Types

• Provisional Instruction Permit: For practicing with a licensed adult.
• Provisional Driver License: Intermediate license with restrictions for drivers under 18.
• Unrestricted License: Available at 18 years old.
• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): Required for operating commercial vehicles.
• Motorcycle Endorsement: Needed to operate a motorcycle.

Required Documents for Driving

To apply for a permit or license in Oregon, applicants must provide:

• Proof of Identity: Birth certificate, passport, or other approved documents.
• Proof of Social Security Number: SSN card or approved document.
• Proof of Oregon Residency: Utility bill, lease agreement, or school transcript.
• Parental Consent: Required if under 18.
• School Enrollment Verification: May be required for minors.

Seatbelt and Car Seat Laws

• Seatbelts: Mandatory for all occupants.
• Child Restraints:
  • Under age 2: Must be in a rear-facing car seat.
  • Under 40 pounds: Must be in a child safety seat.
  • Ages 4 to 8 and under 4’9″ tall: Must use a booster seat.
  • Ages 8 and older or over 4’9″ tall: Must use a seatbelt.