Finally, the epic tale of getting my driver's license is coming to an end.
It took over a month to get my hands on that coveted piece of plastic! 😩
I had to visit the DMV three times for the road test, and it took me two attempts to pass. What a rollercoaster!
Today, I'm here to share with you the preparation and process for the final road test to get your driver's license!
First things first, before queuing up for the road test, you need to visit the DMV website and enter your permit number to schedule a road test appointment.
The available time slots vary for each test center.
Some require a wait of one to two weeks, while others allow you to take the test in just two to three days.
Some even offer expedited tests with a instuctor for a fee, allowing you to schedule the test for the next day.
On the day of the exam, arrive at the DMV half an hour early.
When you get there, make sure to take the driver permit to the counter for check-in!
It's crucial! I made the mistake of not checking in and went straight to the queue on my first attempt. After waiting for an hour, I was sent home by the examiner because I didn't check in with the required documents.
⚠️ When checking in, bring your permit, passport, i-94, insurance proof, vehicle registration, and someone with a local driver's license (required for accompaniment).
After checking in, the counter staff will provide you with several sheets, including the evaluation sheet. 
Once the examiner arrives, hand over all the papers, and then the series of road test maneuvers begins!
After the test, the examiner will inform you if you passed, point out any deductions, and explain the reasons.
My first attempt was flawless until the last turn before a school. Around 3 PM, right after school hours, I maintained the speed of 45 mph without noticing the students on the other side of the road. The examiner scolded me, saying, "There were students back there, didn't you see? You should have been going 25 mph. You failed! Practice more and come back."
The second attempt went smoothly. I took the test during the school winter break, so no students were around. I maintained 45 mph around the school area, only getting deducted 4 points and passing successfully! (You can be deducted up to 15 points)
Afterward, take the evaluation sheet to the DMV and look for this sign!
This is where people who passed the road test come to apply for their driver's licenses.
After waiting for about two weeks, I finally received my actual driver's license! 🪪
It's time to end this bumpy driver's license journey🥳
🚗 Finally! Let me share with you how I prepared for the road test🚗
- Check YouTube for test route information and experiences shared by others.
- Use Google Maps to input your starting point and plan the test route by adding stops.
🔖 Tip: Add a stop after each turn "after" turning.
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Keep adding stops until you complete the entire test route.
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Click "Done," then click the three dots in the upper right corner and select "Share directions." This generates a link to your test route. Practice using this link, and you won't have to input the route every time.
🚗 PRO TIPS 🚗
In addition to pre-planning the route on Google Maps, here's a super useful tip:
Wait at the test location!
If you're lucky, you might see cars taking the test or driving school cars passing by. You can follow these cars from a distance to confirm the test route and learn how to navigate specific sections or when to slow down near schools.
Alright, that's the complete guide to getting a California driver's license.
It took three episodes to write! 😆 I hope it helps you.
If you have any questions, feel free to ask me on Instagram!
🔍：ohoh_smile_
#ohohsmile #Cali #CaliforniaDriving #DMV #DMVRoadTest #DMVRoadTestPrep #DMVBehindTheWheelTest
