Topeka ? How teenagers can drive in Kansas and what age they will be allowed to get a full license is about to change.

New state regulations go into effect on Jan. 1, changing the age requirements for Kansas youth to obtain a driver’s license with full privileges. There are also new restrictions on how many passengers may be in the vehicle and where the drivers may go.

State transportation and safety officials have planned a news conference in the Statehouse on Tuesday to highlight the changes in the law.

Starting Jan. 1, drivers 16 and younger will no longer be allowed to use a cell phone while driving. The only exception is if they need to call 911.

These drivers will only be able to transport one non-sibling passenger at a time and would not be allowed to drive between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m.

The state’s teen driving enforcement was rated one of the worst in the country, but officials hope the new laws will change that.

Legislators passed the changes during the 2009 session, aimed at reducing the number of traffic accidents and fatalities among younger drivers.