The process of obtaining a driver’s license is an important milestone in many teen’s lives, representing newfound freedom and mobility. Traditionally, earning a license has involved both theoretical knowledge tests and practical road evaluations to ensure that future drivers are equipped with the necessary tools to drive on the road safely. However, in Mississippi, recent changes have eliminated the road portion of the test. 

   No longer is there a road portion of the test, only a computerized quiz. Then, after they have had their permit for 12 months,  state lawmakers have now put the responsibility on parents to sign off when their child has driven a certain amount of miles. The quiz that the aspiring driver will take will introduce a comprehensive questionnaire about road rules, safety regulations and situation awareness. 

    Some like this new change and believe that the road portion would not have benefited them. 

    “I was not nervous driving by myself for the first time,” junior Libbie Slay said. “I felt like I had practiced enough to know what to do and how to be a safe driver.”  

   “I would have probably failed because I would have been too nervous, but I am sure it can be useful to somebody else,” sophomore Elizabeth Miller said.

    One of Mississippi’s main decisions to remove the road portion of the driver’s test reflects a shift towards pandemic-related limitations. However, another reason for removing the road portion of the test was to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of the licensing process. By eliminating the need for road tests, the DMV can process a higher number of applicants in less time, making it easier for individuals to obtain a driver’s license.

   However, some see it as something that needs to come back and that it does not benefit upcoming drivers. 

   “No doubt that people are getting their license that they do not need to yet,” drivers education teacher Kelly Causey said. “Parents can lie about signing off on how many miles they drove.”

  According to  driving-test.org,  Mississippi decided to make this decision there were still concerns. One of the main concerns arising from this absence of a road portion evaluation is the new license individuals may not possess adequate practical experience. The road portion allowed examiners to question applicant’s ability to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world driving situations, ensuring their capacity to navigate, ensuring road safety for not just the driver, but everyone else.