Knowing what to expect from a driver’s license exam can make the process go more smoothly. The exam is divided into two parts: a written or computer exam that is required under all circumstances, and a driving portion that is only required under certain circumstances. The written section contains questions about common signs and scenarios that a driver might encounter. The driving portion takes place in the tester’s vehicle with a DMV examiner, whose job it is to ensure that a driver can safely operate his or her vehicle on the road.
Only people who have never been licensed in any state or who have a license from another country are usually required to take the driving test portion of the exam. For those with vision problems, a limited-term or probationary license, a physical condition (except contact lenses), or other conditional terms, driving tests may be required. The rules will differ slightly from one state to the next.
When practicing for the driving portion of a driver’s license exam, following a few basic driving tips can help ensure success on test day. Smoothly accelerate and steer the vehicle without stopping or starting it too quickly. When driving in traffic, bad weather, or road construction sites, always obey the speed limit and slow down. Never “tailgate” another driver; leave enough room between cars for emergency braking. Always use turn signals when making a turn or changing lanes, and be a cautious, alert, and defensive driver.
A driver’s license exam’s written or computer-based portion usually consists of questions about driving laws, procedures, and road signs. Speed limits, parking restrictions, child restraint, and roadway accidents are common topics for law questions. Questions about procedure may include topics such as road safety and hazards, as well as what a driver should do in specific situations. An illustration of a road sign is usually followed by a question about how to interpret the sign in road sign questions.
The DMV frequently provides practice tests for driver’s license exams. These materials are ideal for studying before the exam because they contain questions that are very similar to those on the actual test. In addition, each state has a driver’s handbook that contains virtually all of the information needed to pass the driver’s license exam. The driver’s handbook is available for free at most DMV locations and can also be found on the Internet. It’s a fantastic tool to have when studying for a standard driver’s license exam or test.