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3 Signs That Your Teen Is Psychologically Ready to Drive

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Having a teenager who is ready to drive can be exciting. Your son or daughter may be looking forward to the time when they will be able to have freedom to drive wherever and whenever they want. You may be looking forward to the fact that you are no longer their chauffeur. However, just because your teenager has reached the legal age to drive doesn't mean that they are ready to drive psychologically. Here are a few signs that your teenager is mature enough to receive a driver's license.

1. They Can Follow Household Rules

It is very important that your teenager is respectful of your household rules before they start to learn to drive. Driving a car is full of rules and restrictions. The reason for these rules is to keep a driver and everyone around them safe. If your teen can't honor curfew or other simple rules in the house, how can you expect them to keep the speed limit, wear their seat belt, and follow traffic rules?

It should be made clear to your teen before they start their driving lessons that they need to prove their willingness to take responsibility by following simple commands and rules.

2. They Don't Give In to Peer Pressure

Many teenagers make poor decisions on the road because they are trying to impress their peers. If your teen is worried about keeping their friends interested and excited, they might endanger themselves and others.

It is important that while a teen is in the car, with or without friends, that their first priority is safety, not the acceptance of peers.

If your teen is very susceptible to the opinion of others or is unable to stand up for what they know is right when confronted with peer pressure, you may want to put off getting their license.

3. They Have Perspective and Aren't Easily Distracted

Another important part of driving is thinking ahead and being totally present while you are driving. In a moment you could go from being totally safe to experiencing a dangerous situation. This is why it is vital that your teen isn't easily distracted and has perspective to make good choices in a stressful situation. This perspective will help them to know that road rage endangers everyone around them and that they must focus for the short time that they are driving and even turn off the radio if needed and avoid distraction.

If your teen is not doing these things, you should consider waiting to have them get their drivers license. If, however, you find your teen is ready for lessons, contact driving schools in your area to find a good fit.


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