Do you feel like it’s too late for you to get a driver’s license? Maybe you’re nervous as an adult to take the driving test in Denver. You might be surprised to find that you are not the only adult choosing to get a driver’s license later in life. For some, they take driving classes because they lost their license, and others simply were not ready to drive in their younger years. It’s a big step to take.
The truth is that it is never too late to take driving classes, even as an adult. We often think of these classes associated with teenagers who are seeing their first experiences on the road, but there are many adults who seek out professional instruction. The reasons behind making this decision certainly might vary, but there are plenty of options, and others just like you getting started on the road.
Why an Adult Might Choose to Take Driving Lessons
Even an adult who has been driving for years could benefit from taking driving lessons. Rules of the road change, we get careless, we forget. Or perhaps you are new to driving and really want to hone your skills before you get on the road in real life. These are some common reasons an adult might enroll in driving school.
Learning to Drive: if you’ve never driven or never been taught to drive, you are not alone. Did you know that about 28% of people choose to wait until adulthood to get a license? Whether it’s personal choice, life circumstances, or use of public transportation, many people simply aren’t ready or don’t need that license until later in life.
Returning to Driving: maybe you previously had a license but you took an extended break from driving for whatever reason. This could be from life changes, moving, injuries, living overseas, or some other reason. The break might leave you feeling rusty on driving and driving lessons will refresh your skills and rebuild your confidence on the road.
Adjusting to Different Driving: when you move to a new area or have a huge change in the type of driving you are used to, driving lessons can help. For example, maybe you have always lived in a rural area and you’re moving to a big city with lots of roads and traffic. Lessons might help you learn traffic patterns, parking techniques, and local rules of the road.
Improve Safety and Defensive Driving Skills: adults that have extensive experience driving can always improve their driving skills over time. Lessons can help you become a safer driver, reduce the risk of causing an accident, and maybe even lower your car insurance premiums.
Driving Anxiety: it’s not unusual to feel anxious or nervous on the road, especially if you have ever been in an accident or simply don’t have much experience. Taking lessons will help reduce the stress and anxiety you feel as you build confidence and comfort behind the wheel.
What to Expect in Adult Driving Classes
Some driving schools have classes specifically designed for adults and various age groups. However, most schools put you into a big group with a diverse range of driving experience, ages, and needs. Every company that offers driving lessons will have their unique approach, so it’s important to check out the details and get to know what to expect from that provider. Overall, here is a general overview of what a driving course will include:
Classroom instruction with an overview of traffic laws, signage, safety procedures, etc.
Behind-the-wheel training, where you get real-world driving practice under the close observation and help of an instructor
Flexible or customized learning that may be adapted to specific needs when available
Defensive driving techniques and strategies to prepare you for unexpected situations on the road
Prepping to take the test with your local DMV – both written and road tests
Keep in mind that every provider may be different. No matter where you take driving lessons, you will be led by instructors who teach you valuable information and take time to give you experience on the road in varying scenarios. This is designed to help you get a comprehensive experience and training before you drive on your own.
Do Adults Need Learner’s Permits?
Be sure to check the requirements in your state to determine whether a learner’s permit is needed. Most states do require you to use a learner’s permit, even as an adult. This simply alerts others that you are still learning and practicing. You maintain that permit until you are eligible or prepared to take the final tests and get your permanent driver’s license. You can check with your local DMV or agency to determine the requirements for your area.
In Denver and throughout Colorado, the law requires adults to get their learner’s permit first if they are a first-time driver. If you have driven before and your license has lapsed, you may not be required to get a permit before re-initiating your license. This will depend on your situation.
Choosing a Driving School
As you consider your options and plan for driving lessons, you might have multiple schools to choose from. They are not all the same, so be sure to check out their specifications to choose something that is right for your needs. Here are a few tips to help you find the right one:
Look for programs that are specific to adults if you prefer to be with adult learners
Check their licensing and credentials
Read reviews and testimonials to get a feel for quality, professionalism, and service
Determine scheduling and flexibility options, and find what works for you
Don’t be afraid to compare prices and packages to best fit your needs and budget
Final Thoughts
If you’re preparing to take a driving test in Denver as an adult, driving lessons can certainly be beneficial. Don’t be scared to take those lessons and empower yourself to be behind the wheel, whether it’s your first time or not. Driving lessons help build confidence, gain skills, and provide you with valuable instruction to be a qualified, safe, and smart driver. It’s all about getting the tools you need to hit the road.