For many teenagers, getting a driver’s license is a symbol of maturity and freedom. While it can be an exciting thing for a teenager to receive, it is important that they are mentally, physically, and emotionally prepared to drive on their own. If you have teenagers and you aren’t sure when they should be ready to apply for their driver’s licenses, use this guide to better understand the process. Here are five things all parents should consider before allowing their children to their licenses.
1. Road Rules and Signs
It is important that all teenagers fully understand and comprehend the road signs and road rules before they even think of applying for the written exam. However, it is also important that potential drivers know more than just the meanings of each sign. They should be prepared to act or react as well. This is something that can’t be reached at a certain age but instead requires experience.
2. Drinking and Driving
No teenager is legally allowed to drink alcoholic beverages before driving, but it does unfortunately happen throughout the country. No teenager should be allowed by his or her parents to apply for a driver’s license unless they have had a discussion about his dangers of drinking and driving. Parents should explain that while drinking alcohol is illegal, it is far, far worse to then get behind the wheel. Explain how to avoid these situations and what your child should do if they occur.
3. Accident Rates
Teenagers who are 16 are far more likely to get into an accident than drivers who are 18 and older. As a parent, you will need to consider the benefits of having your child drive as well as the potential accidents that come with the younger age. Some states, such as New Jersey, require teenagers to be 17 before they can apply for their driver’s license.
4. Experience behind the Wheel
Although it is true that younger drivers are more likely to get into accidents than older drivers, it is not certain whether that difference is because of age or simply because the younger drivers have significantly less experience behind the wheel. In order to prevent your child from getting in accidents during his or her first year of driving, you should make sure that they have experience driving in all sorts of conditions. When they are still permit holders, spend as much time as possible driving with them in rain, sleet, snow, and dark to prepare them adequately.
5. School Attendance and Grades
Many states require students to attend school or even to receive certain grades in order to receive their driver’s licenses. While this is not age dependent, it shows unruly students that buckling down and focusing on schoolwork is a way to get their license.
Although teenagers have to abide by state laws with regards to age to apply for a driver’s license, parents can go a long way in preparing them for this task. Whether they are 16, 17, or 18, being prepared and knowledgeable will reduce their risk of a driving accident.
Joshua Goodner is a freelance blogger and the father of two teenage drivers. If you are looking for car insurance for your own teen drivers, Joshua recommends www.carinsurance.org.uk as an affordable option.
