How Long Does It Take To Learn How To Drive?

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While everyone has different learning speeds, you should practice often to learn how to drive as quickly as possible. To drive a standard car, most people require 45 hours of professional lessons and 22 hours of practice on their own time.

Here's what you need before getting behind the wheel

Getting your learner's permit is an exciting time in your life. You're finally ready to drive when you want, provided you're home by curfew. But before you get too excited, here are some basic requirements you need before getting behind the wheel.

  • Enroll and complete a driving course with a qualified instructor
  • Pass a written test

What can I expect at driving school?

Driving school is open year-round. There are likely several options near you, so you need to select the one that's the best fit or closest to you.

A typical driver's course lasts 5 weeks. You meet once or twice every week, with each session lasting an hour or two.

Some areas allow you to take online driving courses. You can learn all about driving from home, so you don't have to go anywhere.

Essentially, your instructor goes over the rules of the road. You learn about driving laws in your state. You even learn how to be a more courteous driver, so you don't just follow the law; you're a kind, respectful driver.

The price of driving school depends on your area—however, most cost in the range of $200 to $800 for the entire course.

To pass the class, you need to prove your knowledge with a written exam. This test goes over everything you learned in the course, so make sure to take copious notes and review study guides well in advance.

Accelerate your learning—practice at home!

You should supplement your learning with private practice at home. You always want to drive with a parent or older family member to show you the ropes when you're getting started.

Driving school teaches you theory. Get a headstart on your education by applying that theory early on by getting behind the wheel in a safe environment.

You can practice in an empty parking lot or just try going around the block to see how much you've actually learned in your course. With advanced early education, you end up becoming a better driver in the long run.

What are the requirements to apply for a new driver's license?

The requirements for a driver's license application differ slightly by state. For example, the exact forms you have to fill out are called something different from one state to the next.

Generally speaking, here are the steps you need to take.

  • Pass the written test
  • Pass the behind-the-wheel test
  • Complete necessary forms at the DMV
  • Provide proof of your identity
  • Pay a small fee

Congratulations! You're a licensed driver, now what?

You may be ready to hit the road, but be careful of any provisions you may have. Some states put limitations on what drivers under the age of 18 can do with a license.

For example, you may not be able to drive around other people younger than 18 unless they're family members. Additionally, you may have a curfew in your state you can't drive past.

You should learn all this through your driver's education.

A license isn't the only requirement for driving legally—you also need insurance

All but two states require you have car insurance. While the minimum coverage you're required to have varies by state, it's vital you have coverage before hitting the road. Most insurance providers offer benefits and discounts for new drivers and students.

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