And What, Pray Tell, Is THE TEST?
Vision Test: For starters, you’re going to have to take a vision test. To pass, you must be able to read the 20/40 vision line with both eyes. If you’re blind in one eye, then you’ll have to read the 20/30 vision line.
If you wear glasses for the vision test, you will have to wear them whenever you drive. And if you fail the vision portion, it won’t matter how hard you studied for the rest of the test, because you’re out of luck. Sound onerous as a restriction? Not if you’re another driver on the road.
Knowledge Test: 40 questions, 40 minutes, multiple choice. The knowledge portion of the test is taken on a fancy touchscreen monitor (don’t worry, even your grandma can figure out a touchscreen computer).
Don’t feel like studying? Good luck. If you miss more than 8 questions, the test will end, and you’ll have to come back after ten days to try again. We suggest using those ten days to come back and read through Shmoop one more time.
Oh, good news for you out-of-state drivers, though. If you already hold a valid license from another state, you usually won’t have to take the knowledge test again unless you’re applying for a new vehicle class.
Road Test: Ya know, where you drive around with a petrified government official in your passenger seat, praying to whoever will listen that you got the hang of things during your practice driving. You’ll be graded on how well you handle the vehicle in traffic, understand road signs and signals, and physically, mentally, and emotionally handle the stress of driving. The test will usually take between 15 and 20 minutes, and no one is allowed in the car except you and the DMV official. You’re on your own, kid.