COLUMBUS, Ohio -  Ohio is set to implement a new law on Sept. 30 that will require driver training for all license applicants under the age of 21, a measure aimed at reducing crashes among young motorists.

The new "Class D" driver training requirements will align 18-, 19-, and 20-year-olds with the same licensing process currently required for 16- and 17-year-olds. According to information provided by the Ohio Traffic Safety Office, the new law is a response to the disproportionate number of crashes involving young drivers.

The new requirements include:

  • 24 hours of classroom or online instruction: Covering motor vehicle operation, traffic laws, and signs.
  • 8 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction: Provided by a licensed driving instructor.
  • 50 hours of supervised driving practice: Including at least 10 hours of night driving, with a licensed adult 21 or older.

The new rules mandate that all training must be completed before an individual can schedule a driving test with an Ohio Driver License Examiner. The state has also released a searchable database to help applicants find approved "Class D" driving schools.

The new law comes as data from the Ohio Department of Public Safety reveals a high number of crashes involving youthful drivers. According to their report, drivers aged 15 to 24 were involved in nearly one-third of all traffic crashes in Ohio from 2023 to 2024, with a total of 154,363 incidents.

In northeastern Ohio, Mahoning, Trumbull, and Columbiana Counties collectively saw 6,386 youthful driver crashes during that period.

The report also found that a young driver's actions contributed to nearly two-thirds of the crashes they were involved in, and 66% of fatal crashes. The most common cause was following another vehicle too closely, which accounted for 23% of at-fault crashes. Other leading factors included unsafe speed, failure to yield, and running red lights or stop signs.

The department also noted that male drivers in the age group were more likely to be at fault than their female counterparts, making up 59% of at-fault crashes and 89% of fatal at-fault crashes.

While youthful drivers represent only about 11% of licensed drivers in the U.S. under age 24, they are overrepresented in crash statistics, according to the Federal Highway Administration.

The new law will not require those under 21 to hold their learner's permit for six months before taking a driving test, a rule that applies to younger graduated licensing programs. The state said that individuals can begin the required training now, and it will count toward the new law, which takes effect at the end of the month.