Do I need to get an education permit before I can take the road test?
Virtually all states require prospective drivers under the age of 18 to obtain an education permit (also known as a learner's permit) before taking a driving test . Many states also require prospective older drivers to obtain an education permit; the other states simply require older potential drivers to first pass a written or computerized knowledge test. (Those drivers may also be able to pass both the knowledge test and driving test on the same day.) Even if your state does not legally require you to obtain an education permit at your age, you still need to obtain one to practice driving under proper supervision. If you are under the age of 18 (21 in some states), you may be required to participate in your state's Graduated Driver's License (GDL) program. Many state-owned GDL programs require you to pass a written or computerized competency test, obtain an education permit, and hold a permit for a specified minimum period before you can take a driving test. Most GDL ...