Before Starting the Engine

Review your teen’s instruction Be aware of any provisional restrictions and additional instructions.
Identify practice areas appropriate to your teen’s driving ability. This will allow you to be aware of any hazards, signs, or Start with basic driving situations, such as in a residential or rural area, and increase complexity over time. Congested, urban traffic or freeways are not the best starting areas.
Until your teen has learned the traffic rules and how to control the vehicle, you may consider practicing in a vehicle with an automatic transmission, if possible, because it is easier to drive.
Evaluate the vehicle’s tire tread. Each tire must have 1/32” inch tread depth grooves and any 2 major adjacent tread grooves.
Review and demonstrate the proper arm signals for: a left turn, a right turn, and slowing down or stopping.
Have your teen sit in the driver’s seat of the vehicle, and before starting the engine:
- Adjust the seat, if necessary.
- Adjust the mirrors, if The vehicle must have at least 2 mirrors, including one on the outside of the left side of the vehicle, that are secure, unbroken, and provide clear visibility.
- Fasten the safety belt(s). For the best protection, safety belts should be adjusted to fit your teen before they start Always wearing your safety belt helps develop a habit for your teen anytime they are driving. Note: The parent or guardian seat should be positioned to allow them to take control of the vehicle, if needed.
- Locate and demonstrate that the following are fully functional:
  - Driver window
  - Turn signals
  - Brake lights
  - Hazard warning lights (emergency flashers)
  - Emergency/parking brake
  - Defroster (front/rear)
  - Horn
  - Headlights
  - Windshield wipers

Note: The windshield should be free from any cracks and material obstructing or reducing visibility.