Teen driver wearing a mask to protect herself from Covid-19

What to Do if Your Driver’s Test Was Canceled Due to COVID-19

Obtaining a California driver’s license requires individuals to pass a driving test with a qualified professional through the DMV, as well as driver’s education and driving lessons. The professionals at Alliance Defensive Driving School are aware of the current challenges facing new California drivers, including DMV delays for driver’s tests across the state. Thankfully, there are online driver’s education options to help drivers stay in the know through the pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic has delayed this rite of passage for teens and new drivers across the country. The California DMV previously canceled its driver’s tests and closed its offices in the spring of 2020, but they reopened over the summer and rescheduled many appointments.

Now, the COVID-19 pandemic has prompted the California DMV to cancel in-person driver’s tests through January 2021. Previously scheduled driving tests are postponed until February 1st, 2021. Rest assured, the DMV extended the time-limit of learner’s permits to accommodate this inconvenience. These canceled in-person driver’s tests present challenges for new drivers, but officials expect the delay to be temporary, and the DMV will reschedule the examinations.
 

How COVID-19 is Affecting the DMV

The DMV offices are open to the public, but the offices require face coverings and social distancing. The DMV has expanded its online vs. in-person driving education services, and the public is encouraged to utilize the DMV web services as much as possible to promote social distancing.

In March 2020, the DMV closed its offices due to the COVID-19 pandemic to help slow the virus’s spread. Over the summer, the California DMV reopened its offices but did not open them all simultaneously. Considering this trend, be sure to check the DMV’s website for reopening news in your area and schedule your driver’s test online.
The DMV announced that the cancellation of in-person driver’s tests would continue until at least February, but continue to check with the DMV’s website to check for potential further delays.

DMV closure due to Covid-19

Rescheduling Your Behind-the-Wheel Test 

Customers who scheduled appointments in December will have their appointments rescheduled automatically. Please note that the DMV will only reopen for driving tests when it is safe to do so. Unfortunately, it is not possible to socially distance within a vehicle during the driving test. The best practice is to check the DMV’s website to determine when in-person tests will be available.

COVID-19 exposures continue to be unpredictable, and California residents’ safety is the most important thing during this pandemic. For teenagers and adults learning to drive, the delayed availability of driver’s tests should not discourage you. You can use the DMV’s appointment tab to schedule an appointment with the DMV. While you are waiting to reschedule your appointment, there are resources available to help you understand all the steps required for getting your permit and driver’s education. Make sure your driving skills stay sharp by reviewing these steps and working with a driver’s education program like Alliance Driving School.
 

How to Stay in Practice Before Your Behind-the-Wheel Test

 Many regions of California are under regional stay home orders. These stay-at-home orders are in place for California residents’ safety and are attempts to limit interaction and the spread of COVID-19. When practicing, stay in your car with a licensed household member. Remember that California requires you to practice with a licensed driver over the age of 25.

Here are some opportunities for drivers with a learners permit to practice their driving:

  • Offer to drive to the store.
  • Offer to drive to doctor appointments.
  • Offer to drive to school.

Mom and daughter practicing driving during the Covid-19 pandemic.

How to Practice Your Driving Safely

 Always practice with a licensed driver. Real-world practice and experience are necessary for your driver’s test, and it is essential to keep your skills sharp. Follow these guidelines to keep your driving knowledge intact while staying safe:

  •       Always practice with a licensed driver over the age of 25
  •       Practice during low traffic times
  •       Practice in low traffic areas
  •       Study your California Driver’s Handbook
  •       Enroll in driver’s education

 

Final Thoughts

The COVID-19 pandemic has been especially difficult for the younger generations. The stay-at-home orders disrupt adults’ and children’s lives, but the disappointment is felt acutely by teens. Getting your California driver’s license amid the pandemic can be a struggle. Fortunately, it leaves new drivers more time to practice!

To learn more about rescheduling your driver’s test at the CA DMV written exam, contact the experts at Alliance Defensive Driving School. Our licensed professionals will be happy to answer any questions.

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