Most teens prefer to make their first-time driving experience memorable. Getting a learner’s permit is required under the law and comes with responsibility. Enrolling in a teen driving school for driver’s ed can help you prepare for your first time on the road. Instructors can offer the best-in-class training and hands-on practice to transform you into a safer driver.
Top driving schools have special programs for first-time drivers Which helps teens and parents navigate the requirements of driver’s licenses. Here are some steps to getting a driving permit as a teenager:
Meeting the Requirements
Each state has conditions you must fulfill before taking driving classes or applying for a license. You can start with a learner’s permit and later upgrade to a driving license. The prerequisites for admission include:
- Age – often 15 for a learner’s permit and 16 for a driving license
- Parents must fill out a consent form for underage teens
- Complete a driver’s training program in an accredited driving school. The learner and school must offer proof of course completion.
- Meet a specific number of practice hours (Supervised for both day and night). The set-out numbers vary according to state.
- The teen must provide their credentials – proof of identity, Social Security Number (SSN), and proof of residence within the state.
Ace Your Test
You must pass the test to get a driving permit after completing your training and practice hours. The test format varies among states. Each test will verify the driver’s knowledge skills.
The written test evaluates your knowledge and understanding of safe driving rules, traffic laws, and road signs. All test answers should correspond to the laws in your specific state.
Physical driving tests examine your skill behind the wheel. Examiners may conduct a basic vehicle inspection on the car you use for the test to ascertain that it is safe for driving. They can check whether it has a valid registration and ensure it has insurance. They may then evaluate key details of the motor vehicle operation the whole time you are behind the wheel.
Observe for the following to avoid missing out on crucial points;
- Safety belt rules
- Checking blind spots and side mirrors before moving off or when parking
- Use indicators when pulling off from parking, turning, or during a lane change
- Confidence when driving and adhering to instruction
- Observe the speed limit
- Traffic lights and road signs, especially stop and give way
Go To the DMV
You will go to the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) to get your driving license. You will need to pass the test and have your legal documents to obtain your license.
Carry along documentation and payment for the license processing fee. The photo you will use on the license will last for at least a year. They may evaluate your vision before giving you the license. Your eyesight will affect your class of driver.
Set Some Ground Rules with Your Parent
Teens can earn driving privileges depending on the state over a three-stage process. It starts with getting a learner’s permit, then a probationary license which they hold for at least six months, and finally the driving license.
The driver’s license allows teens to drive independently, but there are restrictions under the law. For example, in Florida, 17-year-old teens with driving licenses cannot drive alone between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. unless a licensed driver accompanies them.
Parents may have to set some ground rules to introduce them to the newly-found responsibility successfully. These rules enforcing safe and responsible driving include:
- Limited driving privileges until the teen gains sufficient experience
- Prohibitions driving in adverse weather or under the influence of alcohol and drugs
- Setting hour limits and periods that the teen is allowed to drive the car
Enroll In a Teen Driving School
Teens should receive training on safe driving before getting on the road. Enrolling in a teen driving school can help you develop driving skills. These courses can prepare you for the official driving exam.
