Learners Permit

Learning About the Learner's Permit

Whether it's called a learner's permit, learner's license, driver's permit, or provisional license, the remaining step before a driver's license is an important one. For the purposes of this piece, it will be referred to as a learner's permit.

Learner's Permit 101

By definition, a learner's permit is a limited license given to someone who is in the middle of learning to how drive, but hasn't yet satisfied the criteria for a driver's license. Typically one of the requirements for a driver's license is holding a learner's permit for a set period of time, alongside the road test and driving lessons.

Practice examples will build confidence that the student knows the material well enough to proceed. An online tests are widely available through various providers or in person at the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicle office.

It varies between jurisdictions, but a learner's permit is usually gained after passing a written driving permit test. It also requires proof of age, identity, and enrollment in a driver's education course (Drivers Ed).

Notes for Young Students

In America, the minimum age for a learner's permit varies between age 15 and 18. Some drivers can keep track of drives to and from work or school without a supervisor for their driving log. States that allow this include: Arizona, Washington, Texas, Oklahoma, California, Nevada, Michigan, New York (excluding New York City) North Carolina, Florida, and South Carolina.

There are, however, often restrictions on when a permit holder can drive. Often midnight until dawn is off-limits.

For a minor to gain a learner's permit, she needs signed permission from a guardian. Upon achieving the required age and proper time with supervised driving, she may apply for a license. A license lifts many of the restrictions conferred upon a permit holder, including designated driving times and vehicle occupancy limits.

Notes for Adult Students

Adult students may be subject to different rules depending on the state. In some cases, adult students only need to have a learner's permit for a few days before getting his driver's license.

In rare cases, an adult student (age 21 or above) may take the permit written exam, take driving test (if the DMV or RMV is willing to accommodate) and pass, pay the appropriate fees, and receive the license all in the same day.

Providing that fees and appointments are appropriately taken care of, an adult student may take both tests on the same day and get license in the state of Colorado.

The Final Step: Achieving the Driver's License

It's integral to the learning process that any student, adult or minor, research the license and driving regulations specific to her individual state. Driving ages, for instance, vary enormously for permits, probationary licenses, and basic licenses depending on the state.

Restricted licenses maintain different criteria. A driver needs to:

  • Be the minimum age for testing
  • Had her license for the required time
  • Take a computerized exam
  • Take a 6-hour driving test given over a two-day span of time

The preceding driving test typically consists of driving around a residential area or general neighborhood. There are not any hazard tests. A failed test is not a total setback; it can usually be retaken within a week or two.