What must a driver under 18 years old do to obtain a license?

To obtain a driver's license, a driver under 18 years old must complete a pre-licensing course and have parental consent. The pre-licensing course provides essential knowledge about safe driving practices, responsibilities as a driver, and the rules of the road. This educational step is crucial for young drivers to ensure they are well-prepared to handle a vehicle safely.

Parental consent is also a key requirement because it acknowledges that a parent or guardian supports the young driver in taking on the responsibilities of driving. This consent provides an additional layer of accountability and ensures that the minor is guided and supervised adequately during the learning process.

While completing a driving test and paying the requisite fee is indeed part of obtaining a license, the pre-licensing course and parental consent are specifically mandated for those under 18 to legally begin the process. Furthermore, attending a defensive driving course and having a full-time job are not requirements for obtaining a driver’s license and do not directly relate to the necessary steps a minor must take to meet the legal standards in New York.