Hundreds of millions of Americans get their driver’s license from the DMV each year. In many ways, it’s even a right of passage for many teenagers as they look forward to the day when they can legally drive. However, several car wrecks happen daily, and it leads some to wonder if it’s too easy in America for drivers to get a license. Many licensed drivers also feel the process needs upgrades.

The requirements for a driver’s license from the DMV might be too easy

Some people feel getting a driver’s license from the DMV is too easy because the pass rate is too high. According to Drive Safe Online, about 50% of people who take the exam in their respective states pass it on the first try. This may not sound like a large amount, but it is when you consider how daunting a task driving actually is. 

Another problem with the ease of getting a driver’s license is the fact that not all states require driver’s education. As of 2021, 32 states required it for teenagers seeking licenses. Still, states that require the training have different standards. Also, most states have guidelines that don’t address all the basics that a driver would need to know, but instead focus on things like identifying road signs and maneuvers.

This means many young people have to rely on learning to drive at home. Of course, training from a parent or guardian is normal. However, not having a regulated course means bad driving habits get passed down. Additionally, the ease of the DMV driver’s license exam means unsafe people will be on the road. This could lead to car wrecks or other issues like high numbers of traffic violations.

The driver education system may be outdated

People also believe the process of getting a driver’s license from the DMV is outdated. According to Forbes, 52% of people who responded to their survey felt the system needed upgrades. Making matters worse, about 28 percent of drivers said they only spent 20 hours behind the wheel before the exam, which sounds inadequate when you consider that driving can be dangerous.

About 41% of respondents felt states should require 50 or more hours of training before taking the test. This is because, despite being able to pass an exam, most people don’t feel prepared to drive. Drivers should note that there isn’t significant evidence that these courses decrease car accidents. Still, until the system changes, taking advantage of driver’s ed can help drivers prepare for the road.