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The Eastern Echo Thursday, Nov. 21, 2024 | Print Archive
The Eastern Echo

drivers license article

Advice: Tips for obtaining a driver's license

Were you unable to get a drivers license before college? No problem! Here are some tips to help you get your hands on the steering wheel.

Being a college student comes with a lot of factors, and since EMU is a commuter school, a driver's license is one of them. A big part of the conventional college experience, if you're commuting, is driving to and from campus. Little do students know, getting a driver's license isn't that easy of a process, especially for international students. In this article, I am going to explain the process step by step, in the hope that this helps someone.

First of all, you have to take a written test in order to get a permit. However, this part was pretty confusing for me. First step is to schedule an office visit to get a testing appointment at the Michigan Department of State. You need to enter your zip code, choose a convenient location, then click on "First-time Michigan driver's license, ID, permit". The next step is to just put in all of your information, choose a date, and bring the necessary documents. However, don't forget to study for the test because surprisingly it is kind of hard. The test is still manageable if you study and do your best. This link to taking online tests might help, to make you familiar with most of the information.

If you studied hard with some luck you might pass on the first try. After that, you can officially drive, but only with another licensed passenger. In order to start driving on your own you have to take a road test, but not before practicing your driving skills. There are many driving teachers around Michigan you just have to look for one by Googling driving instructors near me. When you are finally ready to take the road test, schedule an appointment at the Michigan Department of State again, but this time choose "testing". Another important step is pre-applying for the driver's license and paying the necessary fees.

In the end, this might look a little confusing, but once you start looking at these government website pages you will get a clearer view. I wish you the best of luck!