What Do They Test During Behind-The-Wheel Driving Test In Ohio?

If you have met all the requirements, including finishing your Driver's Ed course, then the final step before getting your Ohio driver's license would be to take (and pass) the behind-the-wheel driving test. It's a nerve-wracking time, as you definitely want to pass it on your first attempt. Being prepared is key, as it will help you remain calm and confident during your test. So, what do they test during the behind-the-wheel test in Ohio? We have the details below!

Up First: Pre-Driving Checklist

Before the actual driving test begins, the applicant will need to present his or her temporary instruction permit identification card (TIPIC) and if they are under 18, then the applicant must also present a driver education certificate. The applicant must also provide a vehicle in good condition for the drive test. The examiner will perform a pre-drive checklist to make sure your vehicle complies with Ohio state laws. Some of the items that will be checked include:

• At least 1/2 a tank of gas
• Driver and passenger doors that open and close properly from inside and outside
• Tires that are properly inflated
• A windshield with no cracks or debris that would obstruct the view
• Working lights: headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals
• Working horn and rearview mirror

In addition to passing the pre-driving checklist, you will also need to provide proof of insurance and current registration before the actual driving test can begin. If everything looks good, it is time to begin the actual road test.

Next Up: The Actual Road Test

For the actual road test, it will be testing the applicant on two parts: driving and maneuverability. During the driving portion, the following will be performed (via the Ohio BMV website):

• Stop and start
• Turn around and back up
• Perform turns
• Use vehicle turn signals
• Drive in the correct lane
• Maintain a safe following distance

For the maneuverability portion of the test, it consists of two parts:

• Forward through markers
• Backwards through markers

Maneuverability Test Step One

For this portion of the test, the applicant will be asked to perform the following tasks:

• Drive forward through a 9’ by 20’ box formed by four markers. Measurements are taken from the center of the marker.
• Examiner will direct driver to steer to the right or the left of the center marker.
• Steer straight ahead and stop when the rear bumper of the car is even with the center marker and generally parallel with the course.

Maneuverability Test Step Two

For this portion of the test, the applicant will be asked to perform the following tasks:

• From a stopped position at the end of step one, driver must back past the center marker.
• Straighten the car and back through the box, coming to a stop with the bumper even with the two rear markers and generally parallel with the course.

You have one final step to complete before finishing the test. Now the driver must remove the vehicle from the test area without running over markers or performing any other disqualifying actions. Stopping, bumping markers, misjudgment of stopping distance, and not being parallel with the test area are all deductions from the overall point total. It is an immediate failure if a driver runs over or knocks down a marker, or removes the marker from the designated area.

If you have passed all portions of the drive test, then you will need to go to a deputy registrar to be issued a driver license. At that time, you must surrender the TIPIC.

The Retesting Process

If you do not pass the drive test, you are allowed to retake it two times. You must wait seven days before doing a retake. If you fail the test three times, you will have to go through the whole licensing process again.

This is a stressful time for new drivers and parents, so go into it as prepared as possible by making sure to study this list often! As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our friendly support staff. If you want to start your driver's training journey with Coastline Academy, make sure to sign up for Drivers Ed and book your driving lesson today.