LIFE

Learning to drive is a landmark that a lot of us look forward to our whole childhood. But before you can get behind the wheel, you have to pass the dreaded permit test.

On top of school, extracurriculars, and other commitments, studying for the permit test can feel like an unnecessary hassle. I should know—I only passed on my *fourth* try because I couldn't figure out how to study the material in a way that was both efficient and effective. Here are the things I would've done differently if I were starting again from ground zero. 

Official state handbooks are your BFF

Yes, it's true: The official test handbooks you get from the DMV are pretty long and pretty tedious. It might just seem easier to look for study resources online, but you could be putting yourself in a bad position.

Official handbooks are usually what your state's permit test is modeled from, and phrases will likely be worded the same way on the test that they are in the handbook. Online study materials can still be useful, but you should use them *alongside* the official handbook, not in the place of it.

Set realistic studying benchmarks

@theaestheticdesk

If you try to memorize all the material at once, you'll probably get so overwhelmed that you quit. You'll have better long-term memory if you choose one topic or chapter to study at a time. Once you have one section down, you can move on to the next one. I get it, you're probably itching to get behind the wheel already, but you won't do yourself any favors by rushing through things.

Use positive reinforcement to keep you going

Getting through your study benchmarks will be easier when you have something to look forward to. Set yourself up with a little treat at the end of every study session, whether that's a piece of your fave candy or an episode of your comfort show. Motivating yourself with positivity will give you the energy you need to power through a long study sesh.

Optimize your mood on test day

@justalittlebitofpositivity

Just like in school, you're wayyyy less likely to perform well at the DMV if you don't have a good night's sleep, some food in your stomach, and a positive attitude. Whatever it takes for you to feel your best—putting on a cute outfit, enjoying an iced chai, taking some deep breaths—is what you should do right before the test. Cramming last minute probably won't improve your memory, but making sure you're calm and confident will help you recall info better.

Take the paper version of the test (if you can!)

If it's offered as an option at your testing location, ask to take a paper test instead of a digital one. The computers at the DMV occasionally set up the test so that you can't go backward once you select an answer and can only leave three questions blank to save for the end.

But if you take a paper test, no one can stop you from flipping between pages, answering questions out of order, or erasing an answer you've already marked. If you realize you made a bunch of mistakes halfway through the test, you can go back and fix them. You're welcome!

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Top image: @oliviarodrigo
Slider image: @madisonbeer

by Hana Tilksew | 3/25/2024