Getting Your License

 

Getting your license is an exciting time, but taking the test can also cause a lot of anxiety.  Remember, it’s totally fine if you don’t pass your written or driving test the first time. All you have to do is try again.  Plenty of people don’t pass the first time – don’t beat yourself up if you don’t.   Below are some helpful reminders.

 

• Check with your state to see what documents you’ll need to have with you when it’s time to get your license. The last thing you want is to have to go home to get something you didn’t think to bring with you.

• Make sure you’re well rested and wearing your glasses or contacts before taking the vision test.

• Check to see what the fee is to get your license before you go. Costs vary from state to state, so make sure you know exactly how much you will need to pay.

• The written test can be tricky, but the best way to prepare is to closely study your state’s DMV driver’s guide. Many DMV websites also provide practice tests for you to take. Try all of the practice tests before you attempt to go get your license. When it comes time to take the written test, don’t try to rush—take your time and think carefully about each question.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Driving Test

 

Before taking your driving test, it’s a good idea to practice with a parent or an instructor. Find out exactly what you’ll need to do for the driving portion of the test, and have your parent or instructor ask you to judge you on those things. This will help make you feel more confident for the actual test. Below are some tips for that.

 

• Before you even go to the DMV, make sure your car is in good shape: tires inflated correctly, all lights working, and windshield wipers functioning. Have your paperwork handy and the radio turned off. Make sure mirrors are adjusted. It doesn’t hurt to make sure the car is clear of any clutter or trash, too.

• When it comes to the driving part of your test, remember to stay calm. Although you’ll be nervous, it’s important to also be confident.

• Make sure the car is completely off before you begin. If your car is on, it can sometimes result in an automatic fail. When the examiner says for you to turn the car on, that’s when you should.

• Be sure that you listen carefully to the examiner to make sure you’re hearing any instructions.

• Remember to use your signal when appropriate. Small details can make or break your driving test.

• Don’t go over the middle lines in the road, be aware of all signs and lights, and don’t let the steering wheel “slide” through your fingers.

• Come to full stops at stop signs, and stop before the stop lines on the road. Even if you can’t see around a tree or another car, stop at the stop line first, then creep forward until you can see.

• When doing your parallel parking or three-point turn, remember to properly use your signal, to watch for other cars and/or pedestrians, and check your mirrors and blind spots.

• When reversing, don’t forget to look out your back mirror.

 

Graduated License Programs

 

These types of programs were created to ease new teen drivers into full driving privileges gradually over time in low-risk environments as they develop their driving skills. Basically, no nighttime, freeway, or unsupervised driving is allowed in the initial stages of the program. By requiring more supervised practice, the goal of these programs is to save lives, prevent injuries, and emphasize a good driving record. Typically, graduated license programs begin with a learner’s permit, then move on to a restricted/probationary license, followed by a full driver’s license.