The Iowa legislature has recently approved a new bill that will enable 14 and 15-year-olds to drive to and from work, thus giving young workers more flexibility.

The existing special minor’s restricted license, which was previously restricted to farm work and school activities, is being extended to include this new provision.

The new law, expected to be signed by the governor, allows teens as young as 14 and a half to obtain a permit to drive to their jobs without adult supervision. This permit permits them to travel up to 25 miles from their home to work, but driving cannot be a part of their job responsibilities. For example, they can work at a restaurant but are not allowed to deliver food.

The legislation also enforces harsher punishments for infractions. If teenagers are caught driving outside of the authorized time or areas, their driving privileges will be suspended for three months.