Each state has its own specific requirements for residents to earn their driver's license.
This process will vary depending on your age. In general, new drivers under the age of 18 will have to work their way
through a Graduated Driver Licensing program in order to earn their driver's license. Drivers of all ages will
have to bring certain documents with them to the DMV or licensing center. In addition, there will
likely be a written exam, a driving skills exam and a vision exam requirement for all new drivers regardless of age.
The GDL Program
Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) programs are designed to help young novice (or "new") drivers
adjust to the responsibility of obtaining full driving privileges. Studies have shown that GDL
programs help reduce collisions among novice drivers. The GDL program varies state to state, but
most programs include three stages for drivers under age 18:
- The Learner Stage: This stage allows teens to drive with supervision, usually from a licensed
parent or guardian. Teens are often required to log a certain number of hours of supervised driving
before they can move on to the next step. This is also the stage where many states require teens to complete
a driver education course.
- The Intermediate Stage: This stage gives young drivers a bit more freedom. They are able to drive
unsupervised. Most states limit the number of passengers novice drivers can travel with during the intermediate stage.
Nighttime driving is usually restricted during this stage.
- Full Driving Stage: This final stage is a standard driver's license with no age-specific restrictions. Teens usually are granted a full
license when they turn 18.
Many states ban all cell phone usage by novice drivers while they complete the GDL program.
What to Bring to the DMV
In order to receive a driver's license, you will have to provide the DMV with some documentation. This varies by state.
You may be required to show proof of your identity, your social security number, your citizenship or lawful presence,
and your residency in your state. Novice drivers may have to show proof that they completed the driver education requirements.
You may need to complete an application and bring it with you to the DMV.
Exams
New drivers will have to pass several exams in order to earn their driver's license. Drivers must pass a vision exam in every state.
If you fail the vision exam, you may not be able to earn your driver's license. Some states allow applicants who failed the vision exam
to visit an ophthalmologist and then retake the vision exam.
Driver's license applicants are often required to pass a written exam. The written exam will cover road signs and traffic laws.
You may be required to pass a driving skills exam as well. The driving skills exam is a supervised exam where the practitioner will
ask you to perform various driving maneuvers. If you do not pass this exam, you may be required to wait a certain amount
of time before you can retake it.
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