Students are using their free time to learn how to drive and preparing for that dreadful day at the DMV to gain personal transportation.
To take the driver’s test at the DMV, students must make an appointment online on their website or in person. After setting up an appointment, students will need to complete the multiple choice written test with a passing score of at least 83 percent. Students should study the California driver’s ed handbook which they can pick up at the DMV office, located on I Street and L Street.
To help get prepared for the written test, students can take Drivers Ed on campus taught by Mr. Christensen during both first and second semester or online courses that are nine or ten dollars to help teach them what they need to know. Giada Camacho (12) has been working towards getting her license and has been taking a driver’s ed class to help her. Camacho said, “I took it online. I learned the basics and more in depth details about driving.”
After passing the written part, students need to have a learners permit at least 60 days in advance before they can apply for an official license. To pass the driving test, students would need to know how to park, switch lanes, reverse, and road sign. In preparation for behind the wheel test for a permit or drivers license, some students get a helping hand from their parents to teach them behind the wheel, usually start practicing in empty parking lots, reversing, and driving around town.
Some students would rather have other people than their parents teach them, so there are several driving school businesses that can be used to help during this training process. These cost money as well.
The last part of obtaining a driver’s license is the behind the wheel test with an instructor observing actual driving skills and knowledge. When this portion of the test is completed and passed, the student’s picture is taken and fingerprints are recorded in order for the license to be finalized and then mailed to the new driver’s home in a couple of days.
Driving can give students freedom, transportation, and the ability to help your family members with errands. Kaylnn Vu (12) has found the opportunity to have a license fun and helpful. Vu said, “I wanted my license because my parents were always at work, so I didn’t have transportation. I love driving; it can really bring you so much peace.”
Although the process seems time consuming with quite a few steps, having a license can have a positive impact on students.
