Getting a permit can be a really exciting, yet challenging, experience. It’s like being a freshman in high school: you’re new to all the ropes, the school, and the people. There are definitely many challenges that new drivers face.  Every learner’s experience is different from others.

It’s a huge milestone in a teenager’s life. It gives them freedom and independence. Taking the test can put a lot of pressure or anxiety on one. A lot of people start to doubt themselves due to all the pressure. But others are amazing at remembering all the tips and information.

“I don’t doubt myself because I took all the time to make sure I know everything I need too,” Hailey Diaz De Leon said.

It can be scary at first, especially because you’re gonna be new to it. There’s a bunch of precautions that need to be taken. You need an adult or someone 18+ in the car at all times anytime you want to drive. Other people’s safety is just as important as yours. Teens often choose someone they feel comfortable with to start driving around with–someone that will be calm when you mess up or stomp on the brakes too hard. Someone who will yell and lecture everything you do isn’t good for a new driver. The best thing to do is find someone you will feel comfortable with.

“My dad [is who I would choose] because he will be less worried about me crashing than my momma,” Jhylana Glass said.

Hailey was able to face all the challenges getting a permit threw in her face. She was able to manage it all by taking extra time to study.

“Don’t tell yourself you can’t do it because then that makes you doubt yourself,” Hailey Diaz De Leon said.

She stayed determined and tried not to give up. It was a rough but an amazing learning experience for her and many others.