Expect three tests: vision, knowledge and a road (skills) test. The road test checks both your car and your driving, so bring a vehicle that's registered, insured and in good working order.
Know the rule
If you need glasses or contact lenses to drive, a restriction is placed on your license.
Handbook p. 12 ↗Know the rule
The knowledge test covers signs, markings, traffic laws and safe driving, on automated equipment or paper. If you have trouble reading it you may request an oral exam; Class C and motorcycle tests are also offered in Spanish.
Handbook p. 12 ↗Testing fees
| Test | Fee |
|---|---|
| Initial knowledge and/or skills test | $25 |
| Each retest before you get your license | $10 |
Before the road test, the examiner checks:
- Vehicle registration and license plates
- Evidence of insurance card
- Headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals
- Horn and seat belts
- Tires and windshield wipers
Know the rule
All equipment must work, including brakes, speedometer and muffler, and there must be a safe, clean seat beside you for the examiner. No passengers or animals are allowed during the road test.
Handbook p. 12 ↗You'll be tested on:
- Preparing to drive and vehicle control
- Entering traffic, lane use and speed control
- Turns, parking and backing up
- Stopping (you may be asked to stop on a grade) and passing
- Attention to traffic situations
Road test pitfalls:
- Using a cell phone during the drive test = automatic failure
- You'll never be asked to break a traffic law — and you'll be penalized if you do
- Safety features such as parking assist and cruise control may not be used
Three ways to meet the driver's ed requirement
| Option | What to complete |
|---|---|
| 1. Local school | Driver's ed at any local DMV-approved school |
| 2. Online | Driver's ed online with a DMV-approved school |
| 3. Over 30 miles from a school and no internet | 100 hours behind the wheel, 10 of them in the dark |
Supervised driving for teens within 30 miles of a DMV-approved school — 10 of them at night
Handbook p. 14 ↗Know the rule
Motorcycle applicants using the 100-hour option must complete all 100 hours in daylight.
Handbook p. 14 ↗Know the rule
Minors must stay free of at-fault crashes, moving violation convictions and any alcohol or drug conviction for six months before getting a license.
Handbook p. 14 ↗Put it into practice
Jordan lives in Las Vegas near a driving school. Before the road test Jordan needs a driver's ed certificate and 50 logged practice hours with at least 10 at night — and must keep the phone put away during the test.