One of the most anticipated rites of passage for teens is getting their driver’s license. Parents usually have different emotions on this than their teens, which can make the steps harder to navigate. Removing all emotions and worry about your new teen driver is easier said than done, but AAA can at least help you navigate the licensing process with this simple, step-by-step guide.

Mike Formanowicz, manager of Driver Training for AAA Western and Central New York, offers this advice:

1. The first step is to determine what type of license you need. Most people get a class D - Operator (if 18 or older); of a DJ - Junior Operator (if under 18).
2. Then, its time to get a learner permit. Before you can get a license, you must apply for a learner permit at a DMV office and take the written test. You can prepare by reading the New York State Driver's Manual and taking practice tests.
3. Once you have a learner permit, you must have supervised driving practice and take a pre-licensing course or a driver education course before you take your road test. For more information on finding a pre-licensing course or availability of Driver Ed, go to AAA.com/DriverPrograms.
4. Once your teen has the proper amount of practice in (at least 50 hours, including 15 after dark) and has waited six months after getting their permit (if they're under 18) it's time to take the road test. If you pass your test, the examiner will give you an interim license arrives in the mail (in about 2 weeks).

Want to know more? 

You can find out how to choose a driver training class and coach your teen through the learning-to-drive process at AAA.com/DriverPrograms.