I haven't practiced since I became a mom. (Almost 14 years, now!) Not even a member of the PA bar. Only VA and NY. Government relations and insurance, for a major provider of teachers pensions (as they say on TV). And you wonder why being a mom was more interesting! Now I'm a historian, got the degree while I was "retired".
Been following this since it's all over our news here. The guy's gotten himself in trouble because he jumped the gun with his daughter. Shouldn't have let her behind the wheel without the learner's, and she was not even of age for the permit. Not that that would have changed the outcome of the situation, mind you. Dad wasn't on top of things in the car. Certainly he was taken by surprise--I think she stomped that accelerator pretty hard thinking it was the brake and that V-8 took off. Too bad it wasn't a Prius; that poor lady might have had a chance.
Here you may drive with an adult (over 21) on a learner's during designated hours on public roads.
Do you have the actual text of the law? Is she actually charged with operating a vehicle without a license? I see where the father is faulted for not obtaining a learners permit but I don't see the charge listed for her. In TN a license is required to operate a motor vehicle on public streets. There are children all over the state operating vehicles on public lands and private property but it is not against the law. If they are on the streets it is another matter entirely.