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Ask a Trooper by Troy Christianson

Question: Can a parent with a revoked license still accompany a permit driver?

Answer: No, they cannot. A permit holder may drive under the supervision of a parent, guardian or other licensed driver 21 or older occupying the seat beside them.

The permit holder must have the permit in possession to drive.

It’s illegal for drivers under age 18 to use a cell phone, whether handheld or hands-free, except to call 911 in an emergency.

It takes a commitment by parents and many hours to prepare teen drivers to get behind the wheel. But that doesn’t end when a teen gets their license.

A common mistake by parents is thinking their teen is ready for the road as soon as they pass the road test. For example, teens shouldn’t be driving alone the first time they hit the road when it snows. Parents should practice with their teens in different types of scenarios before their teen hits the road solo.

You can avoid a ticket — and a crash — if you simply buckle up, drive at safe speeds, pay attention and always drive sober. Help us drive Minnesota toward zero deaths.

If you have any questions concerning traffic-related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Sgt. Troy Christianson, Minnesota State Patrol, at 2900 48th St. NW, Rochester, MN 55901-5848; or reach him at Troy.Christianson@state.mn.us).

Troy Christianson is a sergeant with the Minnesota State Patrol.