Chapter 2Chapter 2  

Getting Ready to Drive

DON”T LET THIS BE YOU!

The Stages of the GDL The Stages of the GDL SystemSystem

In some states, a person will have full driving privileges as soon as he or she passes the driving tests. In states with a GDL system, newly licensed drivers will graduate from one licensing stage to the next as they achieve the goals at each stage.

 

Stage 1: The Learners PermitStage 1: The Learners Permit

The first stage of the GDL system lasts four to six months.

Recommendations for eligibility:

1.meet minimum age required by state.

2.have a parent’s written permission

3.pass the state’s vision and written exam

Stage 2: Stage 2: Intermediate/Probationary Intermediate/Probationary

LicenseLicense During unsupervised, low risk driving

practice, the new driver is exposed to more demanding situations than those in stage one.

Recommendations for eligibility, To qualify for stage 2, the driver should:

1.be at least the minimum age required by the state

2.have completed a minimum of four hours to six months of supervised driving

3.successfully completed stage 1

4.have passed the road test giving by an approved agency

Recommended components, Stage 2 drivers should be:

1.required to pass an advanced driver education course

2.required to complete 50 more hours of behind-the-wheel driving

3.restricted from driving between midnight and 5 am. Unless accompanied by an adult who is at least 21 years of age

4.required to remain free of any at-fault crashes or moving violations for at least 12 months or until age 18

5.penalized more for traffic infractions than are experienced driver

Stage 3: Stage 3: Full LicenseFull License

This license allows the driver unrestricted driving privileges.

Recommendations for eligibility, To qualify for Stage 3 , the driver should:

1.be at least 18 years of age

2.have successfully completed Stage 2

3.have passed a final road test

Getting Ready for the Getting Ready for the Knowledge Test and the In-Knowledge Test and the In-

Vehicle TestVehicle Test How Can you Prepare for the Knowledge Test? Getting ready for the knowledge test is know

different than getting ready for a test in school. Study the material in advance, be well rested when you take the test, and think carefully before you answering the questions.

  Study Wisely:Study Wisely:

Your state driver’s manual contains the information that you will need in order to study for the knowledge test.

Get Yourself Ready Get Yourself Ready Physically:Physically:

Get a good night’s sleep before the test. No matter how much you have learned, you’ll never pass the test if you’re too sleepy to think clearly.

Don’t skip meals before taking the test. Eating right will keep your energy level high and help you focus you thoughts.

Bring the Necessary Papers:Bring the Necessary Papers:

In TN, you’ll need to bring 1. Parent to sign if you are a minor2.proof of your age, Birth Certificate (No

Photocopies)3. proof of school Attendance/Progress4. Proof of previous driving experience – 50

hour certificate 5. That you comply with GDL regulations

Stay CalmStay Calm::

As you prepare for the knowledge test and on the day that you actually take the test it, stay calm. Read each question carefully, and take time to think before selecting your answer.

How Can You Prepare for the How Can You Prepare for the In-Vehicle Test?In-Vehicle Test?

To pass the In-Vehicle road test, you need to show the examiner that you have a working knowledge of the rules of the road and that you have mastered the basic skills

Know What You Are Doing:Know What You Are Doing:

Practice, Practice, Practice,- that’s the best advice for preparing for the road test. Parents can help by pointing out areas that you need to work on.

Be Alert and Ready:Be Alert and Ready:

To be at your best get a solid night’s sleep before the day of your driving test, and don’t skip meals.

  Bring What You NeedBring What You Need

Your Driver’s permit, proof of vehicle registration, proof of Insurance for the vehicle, depending on your county proof that the vehicle has been inspected.

  Getting the Vehicle Ready for Getting the Vehicle Ready for

the Testthe Test When your take your road test you have to

provide the vehicle, make sure that the Vehicle is as ready for the test as you are.

  How Can You Get the Test How Can You Get the Test

Vehicle Ready?Vehicle Ready? The vehicle you drive for your test should

be in top condition. It should be clean inside an out. All windows should be clean and in good working order.

Choose Your Vehicle Wisely:Choose Your Vehicle Wisely:

Remember that you may have to show proof that your vehicle is registered, and passed all county inspections.

Check Out the Vehicle in Check Out the Vehicle in AdvanceAdvance

Before the day of the test, conduct a basic pre-driving check of the following;

1.      defroster/defogger 2.      breaks 3.      clutch and gas pedal 4.      all lights 5.      horn 6.      fluid levels 7.      tire pressure 8. window wipers, and washer fluid

What Should You Do Once What Should You Do Once You Are Sitting Behind the You Are Sitting Behind the

Wheel?Wheel? The examiner who rides with you during

your test will evaluate your skill at handling the vehicle as well as your ability to drive safely and responsibly.

Make All the Necessary Make All the Necessary Adjustments FirstAdjustments First

Before you start the engine, recheck your vehicle to see if any adjustments are needed.

1. Make sure your seat is adjusted so that you have a clear view of the road and can reach the accelerator and break pedals comfortably.

2. Make sure your head restraint on the back of your seat is correctly adjusted.

3. Make sure the rearview and sideview mirrors are positioned for maximum visibility.

4. Make certain that no objects inside your vehicle are blocking your view

5. Fasten your safety belt6. If necessary turn on window defrosters

and windshield wipers7. turn on low-beam highlights 8. If the radio is on turn it off

Check your mirrors and blind spots before starting to drive

Concentrate on What You Concentrate on What You Are DoingAre Doing

1. Listen carefully to any instructions: Follow the examiner’s instructions exactly. If you don’t understand something the examiner says ask for clarification.

2. Don’t chat with your examiner: During the test the examiner may say very little to you, but don’t let this bother you. This may be their personality. On the other hand if the examiner is very talkative don’t let this distract you.

3. Don’t worry about what the examiner is writing: During the test expect the examiner to be writing and making notes on a form.

4.Don’t let a mistake throw you: If you make a mistake , maintain your concentration. Don’t let a minor error rattle you so much that you make a worse one.

Stay CalmStay Calm

1. Be well prepared: Make your you practice a great deal

2. Admit that you’re nervous: It’s helpful to admit that you are nervous in a situation that is making you tense.

3. Have a positive attitude: Remember that you are well prepared. Be confident that you are going to do your best.

4.Bring support: The person that brings you to the test should be positive, optimistic, supportive, and calm.

Exercise Good JudgmentExercise Good Judgment

Show the Examiner that you are a mature, responsible person. Always be courteous, both to the examiner and to the pedestrians and other drivers you may meet on the roadway.