Getting your Florida learners permit is the first step to ultimately getting your driver’s license and having the freedom you need to get to school or work on your own. Before you get to the point of taking your driving test, there are several things you need to do to prepare. If this is your first driver’s license, and you are between the ages of 14.5 and 18 years old there are a few steps required to get your permit. Step one is study the Florida Drivers Handbook to make sure you are familiar with the road signs and road rules since that is what you will be tested on in the Florida Learner’s Permit Test. Step 2 is to complete a Florida Drug and Alcohol Course—also called a Traffic Law Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course. This covers the effects of drugs and alcohol on your body and how that negatively impacts the driving task.
The great news is that you can do everything that is required over the internet. Think of it like an online driving course that is accessible 24/7. Once you successfully completed the drug and alcohol course and studied the road signs and rules via the handbook adequately, the last step is to take the Learners permit test. Once you pass that, you can head to the Florida DMV and get your learner’s permit if you are 14.5 to 18 years old.
To qualify for a driver’s license, you must hold your learners permit for at least one year from the issuance date (12 months) or you must turn 18 years old. Once your year of practice with a learner’s permit is over, Florida law requires that you pass a Driving Skills Test before you can get your driver’s license. The driving skills tests are conducted by approved third party administrators. Hopefully the year of practice has prepared you for the skills test, but here are some (not all) of the areas that will be tested and some tips.
1. Practice, Practice, and Practice Some More
You will want to spend time behind the wheel to get comfortable driving. It is important to be confident and the more you repeat a skill the more confident you will be with the skill tester.
2. Review Road Rules for 4-Way Stops, Yields, Right-on-Red, etc.
Make sure you understand what each of these means, as well as who has the right-of-way. You don’t want to be confused when taking your driving test.
3. Be Able to Drive at Different Speeds
You need to be confident and be able to drive at various speeds, including freeway speeds. If you drive too slowly on your test day, you could fail.
4. Avoid Driving Too Fast for Conditions
If it is raining or heavy traffic on your test day, make sure to slow down. You obviously never want to exceed the posted limits.
5. Keep a Safe Following Distance
Do not tailgate other drivers. Keep a two second following distance from the vehicle in front of you in case you need to brake suddenly. If someone cuts into the space, just back off and reestablish a safe following distance.
6. Learn How to Park and Parallel Park
Practice both types of parking and remember to use your turn signal to indicate you are pulling into a parking space or getting ready to parallel park. Make sure no part of your vehicle is outside of the parking lines.
7. Learn How to Change Lanes
Improper lane changing is one mistake drivers make when taking their driving test. Use your turn signal, check your mirrors, check your blind spot, and then change lanes if it is safe.
8. Use Your Turn Signals
Get into the habit of always using your turn signals anytime you change lanes, pull into a parking spot, or turn left or right.
9. Come to a Complete Stop
Rolling stops are a mistake that could cause you to fail your driving test. Come to a complete stop at 4-way stops, yields, and red lights. Make sure you stop the vehicle before any stop lines or crossings.
10. Eliminate Distractions
Shut off the radio, put the smartphone on silent/driving mode, and allow yourself to focus entirely on your driving each time you get behind the wheel.
Bonus Pre-Driving Tips
When you first get into the vehicle, adjust the seat so you can easily reach the pedals. Take time to adjust the seatbelt to your height. Check both side mirrors and rearview mirror so you can see clearly. Also always keep both hands on the wheel.
By using these Florida driving test tips, you are sure to do well when you take your driving test. To access the Florida Drivers Handbook, to register and complete a Florida Drug and Alcohol Course (aka TLSAE) or to take the Learners Permit Test online come to Ticket School.com today! Call us with any questions at (800) 558-9887.