Getting an Oklahoma Learners Permit
Many states implement Graduated Driver License programs in the safety interests of teenage drivers. Graduated programs grant young drivers increasing levels of freedom and responsibility behind the wheel so that they may learn the principles of safe driving slowly and effectively. It is the state’s way of keeping irresponsible new drivers off the road until they have proven they have the skills and experience necessary to drive safely.
Oklahoma Learners Permit (Age 15 and Up)
On your 15th birthday, you can begin practicing driving under supervision from a licensed drivers ed instructor if you are enrolled in a state-approved Oklahoma drivers ed course. However, you may not officially apply for your Oklahoma learners permit until you are at least 15 and a half. Only after you have received your learners permit can you start driving under the direct supervision of any licensed driver over 21 years old, such as a parent or guardian. If you have neglected to enroll in a drivers education course, you will have to wait until you are 16 years old to apply for your learner’s permit.
Restricted Intermediate Drivers License (Age 16 and Up)
Before you can move up to having a restricted intermediate license and begin driving all by yourself, you must obtain 50 hours of behind-the-wheel supervised practice, at least 10 of which must be at nighttime. These hours will have to be logged and signed by a parent or guardian. You will also not be able to get your intermediate license until you have completed 30 hours of drivers education. All that’s left for you to do is to bring the necessary documents to the DPS and pass the behind-the-wheel test.
Keep in mind though that from age 16 to 18, a restricted license will prevent you from driving unaccompanied between the hours of 9:00 p.m. and 4:30 a.m. You will also not be allowed to carry more than one passenger at a time, unless they live with you. This is because it has been statistically proven that the majority of dangerous accidents involving young drivers occur late at night or when they are distracted by too many people in the car with them. However, once you turn 18, you will automatically be promoted to an unrestricted license if you have displayed safe driving practices until then.
How to Apply for Your Oklahoma Learners Permit
For a teenager to apply for a learner permit, he or she will need to pass both a written and vision exam (with a supervisor present), and provide the DPS with proof of the following documents.
- A type of primary government identification, such as a certified birth certificate, certificate of naturalization, or a U.S. passport
- A type of secondary ID, such as an Oklahoma employer ID, health insurance card, social security card, or an affidavit of parent authorization
- You social security number
- A letter from school administrator verifying enrollment and attendance
Detailed instructions on applying for a learners permit can be found on the Oklahoma DPS website.
It can all seem a little complicated, but once you make it through this, you will be well on your way to driving safely and unsupervised. Make the most of these chances to practice under more controlled circumstances, and you will be much safer in the long run of your time on the road.
