September 18, 2007
New Homeschool Student Drivers Face Extra Red Tape
All students under age 16, including homeschool students, now have an additional hoop to jump through to get a learner’s driver permit—but it could have been worse.
Under legislation passed last session (Senate Bill 519), students under age 16 must show that they have not had more than 10 unexcused absences the previous semester.
Home School Legal Defense Association Staff Attorney Scott Woodruff corresponded with officials at the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA), and met with them on August 6 to help shape the implementation process to protect the rights of homeschool families. Woodruff’s goal was to make sure the legislation did not become a tool for placing new burdens on families.
The MVA has now published the form implementing the new law, DL-300, and it takes into account Woodruff’s comments to MVA officials. Students under age 16 seeking a learner’s permit will simply need to get the signature of a local school official on the form confirming that the student is being homeschooled. They will not need to submit proof about attendance or absences in their homeschool program. This requirement goes into effect on October. 1.
 Other Resources
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Maryland Learner’s Permit School Attendance Certification Form (requires Adobe Acrobat Reader)
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