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What to Expect on the Georgia Driving Skills Test

4 min read

The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) administers the Road Skills Test—commonly known as the driving test—to evaluate your ability to operate a vehicle safely and in compliance with state laws. Whether you're a teen driver under Joshua’s Law or an adult seeking your first license, understanding the test format, requirements, and scoring criteria is essential for success.

Eligibility and Prerequisites

Before scheduling your road test, ensure you meet these requirements:

  • Valid Learner’s Permit: You must hold a Georgia learner’s permit (Class CP) for at least 1 year and 1 day if under 18, or have a valid permit if 18 or older.
  • Supervised Driving Hours: Complete 40 hours of supervised driving, including 6 hours at night. A signed affidavit confirming this is required.
  • Knowledge Exam: Pass the two-part knowledge exam covering road rules and road signs.
  • Vision Screening: Successfully complete a vision test administered by DDS.

For teens, additional documentation includes proof of school enrollment and completion of an approved driver education course as mandated by Joshua’s Law.

Scheduling Your Road Test

Road tests are conducted by appointment only. Schedule your test through the DDS Online Services portal. Arrive at least 30 minutes before your appointment to allow time for check-in and vehicle inspection.

Vehicle Requirements

The vehicle you provide for the test must:

  • Be in Good Working Condition: All lights, signals, brakes, and safety features must function properly.
  • Have Valid Registration and Insurance: Present current documents for both.
  • Pass a Safety Inspection: DDS personnel will inspect the vehicle before the test.

Rental vehicles are permitted if:

  • The test-taker is listed as an authorized driver on the rental agreement.
  • The rental agreement allows for driving tests.
  • Valid insurance coverage is provided.

Test Format: Traditional and Virtual Options

Georgia offers two formats for the road test:

Traditional Road Test

  • Conducted with a DDS examiner seated in the passenger seat.
  • Evaluates driving skills on a designated test route.

Virtual Road Test

  • Administered remotely via a dual-facing camera and hands-free device.
  • A licensed adult (21 or older) must accompany the applicant in the vehicle.

Both formats assess the same driving competencies and require the same documentation.

Driving Skills Assessed

During the test, you'll be evaluated on the following maneuvers:

  • Parallel Parking: Park midway between two cones without exceeding 18 inches from the curb.
  • Straight-Line Backing: Reverse in a straight line for approximately 50 feet at a slow, controlled speed.
  • Turnabout (Three-Point Turn): Execute a turn in a narrow space using a three-point method.
  • Stopping for Signs and Signals: Demonstrate proper stopping techniques at stop signs and traffic signals.
  • Approaching Intersections and Corners: Use correct lanes and observe right-of-way rules.
  • Yielding Right-of-Way: Yield appropriately to pedestrians, vehicles, and cyclists.
  • Turning and Passing: Make safe turns and pass other vehicles correctly.
  • Following Distance: Maintain a safe distance behind other vehicles.
  • Use of Clutch (if applicable): Operate a manual transmission smoothly.

Proper posture, hand positioning, and attentive driving behavior are also evaluated.

Scoring and Results

To pass the road test, you must achieve a minimum score of 75%. The examiner will provide a score sheet detailing your performance and discuss any areas needing improvement. If you do not pass, you may retake the test after a waiting period, as specified by DDS.

Additional Resources

For further preparation, consider reviewing these resources:

By thoroughly preparing and understanding what to expect, you'll be well-equipped to pass your Georgia driving skills test and earn your driver's license.