Getting your driver's license is still a rite of passage in many parts of the United States. A license represents independence, freedom, and a step toward adulthood. With the wheel in your hands, and the wind in your hair, nothing is stopping you. Before you get your driver's license, you most often need to get a learner's permit. While it might seem like a hassle, there are benefits that come with your permit.
What Are The Benefits of Getting a Permit?
A learner's permit allows new drivers to legally get behind the wheel while under the supervision of an experienced driver. This lets newer (and usually younger) drivers get more experience on the road. This will make passing an actual driver's test easier. Also, there's a correlation between driving experience and the likelihood of getting in an accident. So, there's a vested interest in ensuring new drivers get some seasoning before getting a license.
A learner's permit gives drivers more time to acclimate to the rules of the road. It can allow younger drivers to clock many miles before shooting for their test.
It's Often A Requirement
Getting a learner's permit isn't just a good idea; in many states, it's the law. To get a driver's license, someone first has to get a learner's permit. Several states also have rules for how many hours someone has to drive and under what conditions. This forces future drivers to go through the "introductory level" of driving. This ensures new drivers are exposed to night driving, inclement weather, highway driving, etc.
In these states, it doesn't matter how old someone is. Every driver has to go through the same routine and get the same time on the road, before taking a license exam.
How To Get A Learner's Permit
For those who need to go through the permit process, getting a learner's permit is easy. All you have to do is head down to your local BMV and take a written test. There's no driving needed because that's what you need the permit for in the first place.
The specific tests will vary depending on where you live, but it's a good idea to pick up a learner's manual. This will help you see what sorts of facts you're expected to know.
For some states, you'll need to take a driver's education course first. Even if it isn't needed for your state, a drivers education course can help you pass your permit test. You can take classes at your convenience right from home. That way you can get all the preparation you need to build a firm foundation.
Transitioning From A Permit To A License
A permit is a temporary thing, but it can be scary to take that leap. The more time you spend driving, though, the less frightening your license test will be. Also, the more road rule knowledge you have, the easier it will be to move from theory to practice.