If you're under 16 and want to start driving, you'll need to take a driving education class either through your high school, or a private company. The classes include at least six hours of behind-the-wheel instruction. Please see our Driver Education section for more details about this requirement.

When you get your learner's permit, you'll have at least two months to get some driving experience before applying for your license. Use this time wisely, soaking up as much information as you can about driving, and the different experiences you'll encounter.

One thing all teens face is a lack of actual driving experience. Of course, there other obstacles on the road to becoming a safe driver. Such as, you might be easily distracted (go ahead, admit it). You might be careless. You might think you're invulnerable, or that accidents only happen to other people.

But, still, the biggest obstacle you'll face will be your lack of experience.

Simply put, there is no substitute for driving experience. Even driving veterans still come across situations they've never encountered before. And, look at all the years of driving they have on you.

Among the things you'll encounter:

• Poor weather conditions (such as snow, high winds, icy roads, heavy rain, fog, and sometimes a combination of these)

• Construction zones

• Heavy traffic

• Careless, dangerous drivers

• Road rage

• Flying debris from trucks or other cars

• Obstacles in the road

And, that doesn't even include weird, out-of-the-ordinary things that'll just pop and surprise you when you think you've seen it all.

The good news is that chances are your reflexes and vision will never be better than when you are a teen. Use this to your advantage. Take things slowly, pay attention, and be serious about your driving education and your driving training.

And, always remember this: Your driving education never really ends.

Be careful out there.

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