Use This Checklist to Get Your License in Just 5 Simple Steps!
When you are finally old enough to drive, it can be exciting! You’re ready to gain the independence and responsibility of getting yourself from place to place. It’s important to know that the road to becoming a driver can be time-consuming but getting your driver’s license is fairly simple. Luckily, there are several resources available, both online and at your local DMV to help. Use the below checklists to help you on the quest to getting your driver’s license.
1. Take Your Permit Test
Once you’ve completed the first step in becoming a new driver, passing your permit test, you will be well on your way to completing your goal! Check off these steps along the way:
- Study Your Driver’s Manual
- Schedule Your Permit Test
- Take Your Written Exam
- Receive Your Permit
2. Complete Your Driver’s Education Course
If you are under 18 years of age, it is required that you take a state approved pre-licensing course or complete a high-school or college 5-hour driver’s education course before getting your license. This course can help you become a more aware and defensive driver Most of the information needed to complete the following sub-steps can be found on the New York State DMV website:
- Find a state-approved Drivers Education provider
- Complete your Driver’s Education course
- Receive your Driver’s Education Certificate [form MV-285]
- A 5-hour Pre-Licensing Course can be taken in place of Drivers Education
3. Practice Driving
After getting your permit, it’s time to get behind the wheel. It’s important to discuss who will be helping you complete your supervised driving hours as well as whose car you might be using to do so. Consider these steps before moving on to take your road test:
- Study your Driver’s Manual for tips
- Take in-person driving lessons
- Reach at least 50 hours of supervised driving
4. Take Your Road Test
After you have comfortably had 50 hours behind the wheel, it’s time to take the final step in becoming a new driver! Be sure to prepare for your test by collecting the necessary paperwork as well. You will need the vehicle’s title, registration, your driver’s permit, and your driving documentation. You got this!
- Schedule your test
- Figure out whose car you will use. Ask a parent or guardian or hire a driving school to take you to the test
- Prepare the following items to take to the test
- Certification of Supervised Driving (MV-262)
- Photo learner permit
- Driver Education Certificate (MV-285) or Pre-Licensing Course Certificate (MV-278)
- Pass your road test
You did it! Congratulations!! You’ve passed the test and are almost ready to get on the road! There is one more thing you need to take care of before driving off, and that’s car insurance.
5. Obtain Individual Car Insurance
Finding car insurance can feel confusing at first. You might not be sure what coverages you need or discounts you qualify for. This is where you should talk to a parent or guardian who can help you make decisions on the type of insurance to choose. They might even offer to add you to their current policy. If you need to find your own policy, check out the link below to contact an agent and learn about auto insurance options with NYCM Insurance.
