Getting your license is one of the greatest accomplishments you can have as a teenager, and it’s also a way to gain both independence and a sense of freedom.
As simple as getting your license may seem, many factors come into play. Studying for your theory test is one thing, but gaining driving experience and choosing the best vehicle for you is also part of your journey.
What’s so great about driving at this age?
Having access to driving and the responsibilities that come with it is important if you need it later in life. By knowing how to drive from the start and knowing the nuances of the road, you’ll be better equipped to handle this responsibility in the future. Plus, you’ll always have your license or permit as your ID, so you’ll rarely experience the awkward “I forgot my ID…” moment!
Moreover, it allows you to have your freedom and makes you more confident and dependent on yourself. What’s even better is that you can start looking and saving for a first car to practice on, because let’s face it, our parents won’t always be happy for us to practice on their cars as we venture out. on the road.
The theoretical test
Before rushing into anything, you need to start studying for your exam. The process to get it will be different in every country, state and even city, and will also vary with age. Don’t plan to cram all the laws of the road into one day of study and expect to pass them; try studying a few weeks before to allow your brain to process all the information you will need to remember!
It’s always a good idea to try to interrogate yourself so you get used to being interrogated. Also, if your country has a practical theory test, add it to your studies. The theory tests will also test your knowledge of your own driving, so don’t be surprised if you are also asked about potential hazards, traffic signs, applicable laws and potential situations you might find yourself in with your vehicle .
Do not overload the morning and do not feel abnormal to be a little nervous. It’s a normal feeling! Never feel pressured to get it ASAP; everyone is different and will not want to get their license right away.
Did I succeed…?
As much as it pains me to say this, not everyone will pass. It is important that you don’t blame yourself for not being successful the first time and that you keep studying. Get back on your high horse and skip it next time!
If you were successful, congratulations! Every country’s driver’s license process is different and it’s important that you know what you can and cannot do at this stage of your journey. There are laws in place to protect the roads, so make sure you know your limits. There are time limits where you have to sit on a certain stage until you can upgrade to a full license. During these periods, it is important that you train as much as possible. It is essential that before taking your appropriate test, you can do all that is required with confidence!
Get to know the area and potential routes you can take during your test and spot tricky turns, potential hazards, and the speed limit for that area. You will feel more comfortable and less nervous during your test if you know the area well. Make sure to practice as often as possible!
The hunt
When you feel comfortable with where you are, you’ll want to consider getting your own car. Looking for cars is easier said than done… there are many factors that go into finding that first car. Fuel efficiency, safety rating, reliability and price are just a few of the many considerations that go into buying a car.
As a first-time car owner, you don’t want to buy an expensive car that you could damage. (Let’s face it, as novice drivers we are bound to make mistakes). I highly recommend looking at used cars and keeping an open mind. The car you have in mind may not be right for you. Once you start looking at cars, there’s no stopping you, and there’s an endless amount of different makes and models to choose from.
Never look at a car and agree to buy it just because it looks good! Ask to take it to a licensed mechanic and have it checked to make sure there is no problem. Sometimes the quoted price may seem too good to be true, and there is always an underlying reason for this scenario.
Having the ability to drive and the feeling you will have when you pass your exam is worth all the hard work! It’s a big step, and you should be very proud to have taken it. Don’t forget to fuel up and you’ll be on the road in no time!
