In the US, a written test and a skills test are required to obtain a driver’s license. The written test covers road rules and a free study booklet is available. A skill test is also required, and if passed, a license is issued. Renewals may require periodic written tests.
In the United States there are two types of driving tests: a written test and a skills test. The prospective driver must first pass a written driving test to receive a restricted license or learner’s permit. After a period of time, the driver can take the skill test. Upon passing the skill test, an actual driver’s license is issued. In some states, the driver must periodically take a written driving test thereafter to keep the driver’s license current.
A written driving test is designed to ensure that the prospective driver is well informed about the rules of the road. The questions vary and the tests change periodically to avoid cheating, but a free study booklet is always available at your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). All tests are based on the information contained in the brochure.
The material in the study booklet covers rules as diverse as when to activate a turn indicator; speed limits under construction and school zones; what to do when approaching a stopped school bus with flashing lights; right-of-way courtesy; reading road signs; and how to change lanes or pass correctly. People often comment that the questions are “difficult” or ambiguously worded. Fortunately, there is no time limit on the driving test, so take your time and read the questions carefully before answering.
The written driving test is a multiple choice test. Often more than one answer seems plausible, in which case the best answer should be chosen. After completing the driving test, the applicant turns it in and waits while it is scored. A passing grade will warrant a learner’s permit or driver’s license renewal. A failing grade will require the applicant to retake the exam at a later date.
Upon receipt of a learner’s permit, the holder may drive a vehicle as long as a licensed and experienced driver is present. If the new controller is a minor, parental permission is also required. Laws vary from state to state, but generally a minor must hold a learner’s permit for a period of six months before being eligible for a driver’s license. Adults can be eligible in as little as three weeks.
Once eligible, a final driving test is required: a skill test. A parent may accompany a child to the DMV in the family car. The parent (or friend) waits at the DMV while a DMV agent rides with the applicant for the driving test. The DMV agent will instruct the driver to take certain roads and perform certain maneuvers. The agent will look at the applicant’s knowledge of the car’s operational functions, knowledge of the road, and driving skills. This test drive usually takes 15-20 minutes.
If the applicant passes the skill test, a driver’s license can be issued. Normally, a person who keeps their driver’s license valid for life does not have to take a skill test again. Every few years a written driving test may be required to renew a driver’s license.
DMV offices are often crowded. It’s a good idea to make an appointment to take a driving test to save yourself unnecessary waiting. If you plan to take a written driving test, be sure to pick up a study booklet at least a few days in advance. This should give you plenty of time to study. Tests are offered in multiple languages and you can retake a driving test (written or skill) as often as necessary to pass.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
