Pulse- Nov 24 2
Earning your Driver’s License
By Chris, Employment Specialist
Traveling by car is an exciting and wonderful experience. With the ability to drive, also comes a greater sense of utility and convenience. You can drive yourself and others where they need to go, fulfill your desire to travel on the open roads, and find yourself one step closer to the thing that all youth want to achieve—independence. For anyone looking to obtain a driver’s license, the process may seem overwhelming at times, but earning your driving privileges may be easier than you think, provided you are dedicated and patient enough to learn the rules of the road!
You may also be relieved to know that the process of obtaining a driver's license is typically the same for everyone. The only difference might be learning to drive in a different way and obtaining driving controls if you have a physical disability. But, getting the actual license has the same basic steps. If you are 18 years of age, you may be issued a non-restrictive driver’s license after passing a vision, written, and driving exam— although a certificate of completion from an authorized and credible driving school may fast track you to only requiring a vision test. If you are 17, you must also provide signed testimony from a parent or guardian attesting to a minimum of 50 practice hours behind the wheel of a motor vehicle.
You can study the rules of the road online for free at https://www.ksrevenue.gov/pdf/dlhb.pdf. Whether you choose to print this manual or make flash cards—what matters is that you study the driver’s handbook carefully and understand it! Operating a motor vehicle is a great responsibility—one that requires discipline, focus and maturity. Remember, driving is a privilege, not a right.
The written portion of the test can be completed at a Division of Motor Vehicles office near you—however, applicants can also take the online version of this test in the comfort of their own home at https://knowtodrive.com. Click “Find your State” and select Kansas on the map to begin your driver’s test online! This is a real test, so don’t apply for it until you have studied the driver’s handbook and are confident with your knowledge! If you have not completed drivers ed, you are still required to take a behind-the-wheel test at the department of vehicles.
Did you know that you can drive a vehicle even if you have a physical disability? Ability KC is one option in our state that offers a variety of driving solutions and specialty training to accommodate both physical and mental disabilities! There are other driver’s training programs out there, and, oftentimes, they can be found within your local rehabilitation hospital or through a simple search online. Not all driving accommodations will look alike. Just as every disability is unique, so are the needs of the driver and their vehicle.
For more information on driver’s license requirements for teen drivers, please visit https://www.ksrevenue.gov/dovgdl.html.