Be prepared and don’t overthink it.

In the state of Maryland, you are legally allowed to own a driver’s license at age 16, making you eligible not only for driving but also for a car. This means that many of us are looking for cars while we are in high school. But where do you go to take a driver’s test? How can you properly prepare?

One of the first things you must know is where you are going to be taking your driver’s test. In situations like these, it’s better to plan ahead so you’re ready for anything. You don’t want to find a place that is known to be easy to pass (you do want to be prepared for the real world after all!) and you don’t want to find a place that is known to be hard to pass either. “Practice with your kids until they can drive safely enough to pass the most stringent test. This is a public safety issue, and it doesn’t do any of us any favors to have unprepared teens on the road,” said one parent in a forum on the DC Urban Moms and Dads website. 

Now, how can you properly prepare for the test? Practicing with a guardian is a necessity. This will increase your chances of passing because you aren’t going in completely blind. You get to learn how to navigate the road comfortably with someone you know and trust. Maybe they can give you personal pointers along the way, seeing as they have the experience. Studying the law is also important because it will help you become more aware so you don’t slip up on the test or in real life. Better to be safe than sorry! And most importantly, remember to stay calm. No matter how much you know or how much you’ve prepared, if you aren’t calm and collected during the test, you will have a very difficult time. Though it may be corny, try telling yourself positive and motivational things during the test to keep your confidence up. Know that you’ve got this!

Most people start out with cars given to them or handed down by their parents or older siblings. That’s okay! No one starts with their dream car, but with hard work and determination, you can save up for the car of your dreams by the time you’re comfortable on the road!