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Massachusetts Junior Operator License (JOL) Speeding Suspensions and Hardship Licenses
Massachusetts enforces strict penalties for Junior Operator License (JOL) holders who receive speeding violations. Even a single speeding offense results in an automatic license suspension, and multiple violations lead to even harsher consequences. Understanding the law and knowing the steps for reinstatement are crucial for young drivers and their families.
Consequences of a JOL Speeding Violation
Under G.L. c. 90, § 20, if a Junior Operator is found responsible for a speeding violation—either by paying the ticket or after a citation appeal hearing—the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) will impose the following penalties:
- First offense: 90-day license suspension
- Second offense: 1-year license suspension
This applies to both in-state and out-of-state speeding violations.
Requirements for License Reinstatement
Once a JOL speeding suspension is triggered, there is no way to regain driving privileges without fulfilling all RMV requirements. To reinstate a JOL license after a suspension, the driver must:
- Serve the full suspension period (unless granted early reinstatement by the Board of Appeal).
- Successfully complete both of the following mandatory programs:
- National Safety Council (NSC) Alive at 25 “Attitude Retraining” course
- State Courts Against Road Rage (SCARR) program
- Pay a mandatory $500 reinstatement fee.
- Pass a written test and obtain a new learner’s permit.
- Take and pass a road test.
The RMV will not allow a JOL holder to schedule a road test until they have served six months on a learner’s permit. Additionally, program availability may be limited, so affected drivers should register for the required classes as soon as possible.
Hardship Licenses and Appeals
The RMV does not grant hardship licenses for JOL speeding suspensions. However, drivers may appeal their suspension to the Board of Appeal on Motor Vehicle Liability Policies and Bonds. The Board of Appeal is the only authority that can issue a hardship license or order early reinstatement of a JOL suspension.
To succeed in an appeal, the JOL holder must prove:
- They face an extreme and substantial hardship due to the suspension.
- They do not pose a risk to public safety.
Because the Board of Appeal is used to hearing cases from adults who need a license to support their families, younger drivers often struggle to demonstrate the necessary hardship. Additionally, all Board of Appeal hearings must be scheduled in advance, and wait times can be several weeks.
Unlike the RMV, the Board of Appeal can waive the requirement to retake the written and road tests, potentially speeding up reinstatement. However, they will not waive the required programs or reinstatement fees.
Avoiding a Suspension
Given the severe consequences, Junior Operators should take every precaution to avoid speeding tickets. If cited, they should strongly consider appealing the citation. Paying the ticket is an automatic admission of responsibility and will trigger the license suspension.
Understanding these strict penalties is essential for JOL holders and their families. By driving safely and knowing their rights, young drivers can avoid unnecessary license suspensions and the costly reinstatement process.