Understanding Vanessa’s Law for Teen Drivers in Minnesota

Minnesota teen drivers who are convicted of an impaired driving crime or crash-related moving violation are subject to a penalty that would bar them from driving until they are at least 18 years old. This penalty is due to Vanessa’s Law. If you or your child are at risk of losing driving privileges because of Vanessa’s Law, an attorney can help you secure the best possible outcome. What Is Vanessa’s Law in Minnesota? Vanessa’s Law is a Minnesota statute that restricts driving privileges for teens convicted of an impaired driving crime or crash-related moving violation. Teens penalized under Vanessa’s Law cannot obtain a driver’s license until they are at least 18. There are slight differences in how the law applies to unlicensed teens versus teens with provisional licenses, which we’ll explain below. Vanessa’s Law was passed in May of 2004, one year after Vanessa Weiss was killed just days before turning 16. Vanessa was a passenger in a vehicle driven by an unlicensed 15-year-old. Vanessa’s Law was named in her memory and aims to protect people from injuries and fatal accidents caused by teen drivers. How Vanessa’s Law Applies to Unlicensed Teens Unlicensed teens convicted of a crash-related moving violation or alcohol/controlled substance violation cannot receive a license, provisional license, or instruction permit…