How long is the JOL holder restricted from driving during night hours?

A JOL (Junior Operator License) holder in Massachusetts is restricted from driving during night hours until they reach the age of 18. This restriction is in place as a safety measure to ensure that younger, less experienced drivers are not on the road during higher-risk hours, which tend to occur at night. The intention behind this law is to reduce the likelihood of crashes among novice drivers, particularly in low-light conditions where visibility and the ability to make quick decisions may be compromised.

As JOL holders progress in age and experience, the intention is for them to develop better driving skills. Once they turn 18, they are considered mature enough to handle the responsibilities and risks associated with driving at night, leading to the lifting of this restriction. This structured approach helps to ensure that young drivers gain essential experience during less challenging conditions before taking on the complexities of nighttime driving. Other options, such as restrictions based on the age of 21 or only until obtaining a full driver's license, do not accurately reflect the specific regulations enforced for JOL holders in Massachusetts.