Driving is liberating, Driving is scary, Driving is…driving. It’s about that time to start getting familiar behind the wheel if you’re ready. Attention all OCSA freshman and up, the keys are calling your name to unlock some opportunities and responsibilities! Aren’t you tired of asking for a ride to anywhere, or a ticket for a joyride? Well, here are the steps and tips to get by while on the road. Though driving MAY seem like a new token to freedom, there are some rules and precautions you must acknowledge. So, how do you get prepared for such a big task? It all starts with your mindset of course. You need to ask yourself some questions before you hop in the driver’s seat. Are you set to follow this process? Are you confident, but open for criticism? Are you in the clear to take on an extra responsibility? These are a couple of ways to mentally keep yourself in check before you start testing.

But to drift to a more physical standpoint, here are the first things you must do to obtain your LEARNERS PERMIT:

1. Sign up for a driver’s ed online course:

• Before you get your license, you need a learner’s permit, which you can start getting around the age of 15. In order to get that permit, you have to take a course that goes over the rules of the road. It’s typically a 4hr long course, assuring that you read everything in the course. You can sign up for driver’s ed off of FLVS or pay for a course provided by the state. And after you complete the course, there’s an exam you have to pass you get the certificate.

2. Schedule an appointment at the DMV:

• The DMV is the place where you take your driver’s tests and get your license/permit. Schedule an appointment to get your picture taken for your permit. Be aware that you may have to bring proof of your completion of the course. Also, getting your permit costs money so bring a 50 with you, since that’s the average price. Take note that the main difference between a permit and a license is that the permit requires an adult to be present, while a license does not.

3. Wait…:

• Obviously, you need to prove yourself worthy of the road by gaining experience. So, to make sure you have that time to drive and practice, you have to legally wait a year from the day you got your permit. And after that year you can head back to the DMV!

All that waiting and practice has probably burned your excitement to a crisp, but more doors open on your big 16th. Here are the last steps you need to complete to obtain your LICENSE:

4. Schedule a 2nd appointment and take the test:

• Your testing doesn’t end here; you must schedule an in-person driving test. There are a couple of things you have to do correctly before getting the green light, and you can view all of the requirements in the Florida DMV website. A written exam is also needed so make sure you study the book! And remember, no need to worry on passing the first time, you can take this test anytime and it won’t affect your eligibility to earn a license

5. A few legal things:

• Again, bring poof of your identity (usually mail) like previously. Lastly, a license isn’t free, so be ready to pay for a fee after you complete all of the necessary steps. Take a final picture with your marvelous face card and now you’re free to celebrate!

Now that you’ve learned the steps, you now have the capability of following through. Alongside the legal documents, driving is more than just obeying the rules and being responsible, it’s also about your mental health. Some few tips to keep in mind is that you must relax and take your time. When you drive with a high rate of anxiety the tension can interrupt your intuition. Be confident, but not bold when you’re behind the wheel. Learn how to get comfortable with your vehicle and recognize its behaviors so you can adjust to them. And most importantly, there is no rush, and if there is a rush, then it isn’t advised that you drive in a hurry because you may be at risk. Driving is about paying attention, keeping up, and taking your time. You’re a first-time driver, so…despacito.