Kentucky KSP / KYTC road test: what to expect

What the examiner checks

• Vehicle controls: headlights, dimmer, horn, wipers, turn signals, emergency brake, flashers, brake lights
• Stops
• Backing
• Turning the car around (turnabout)
• Stopping and starting on a hill
• Parallel parking
• Intersection approaches
• Clutch use if applicable
• Speed, turns, lane use, right-of-way, overall control

How it's scored

Pass/fail score sheet without a numerical score.

Mistakes that end the test

• Any collision, traffic violation or dangerous act
• Failing to follow the examiner's instructions two times (disqualified)

Your car

• Seat belts for driver and examiner if factory equipped
• Clean passenger area
• No excessive tint, extra flashing lights or windshield obstructions

After you pass

Drivers under 17 (after 180 days on the intermediate license and a 4-hour graduated licensing driver education course) get a provisional or junior license first. Its restrictions:

• No driving 12 a.m.-6 a.m. unless good cause (emergencies, school, work)
• Under 18: 1 unrelated passenger under 20
• Zero tolerance (.02 BAC) under 21
• Violations add at least 180 days before full license; more than 6 points under 18 may bring suspension; point-system hearing at 7 points under 18

How to prepare

• Practise in the car you'll take the test in, including parking and backing up.
• Drive the kinds of roads near the test site with your supervising driver: intersections, lane changes, school zones.
• Check the car the day before: lights, signals, horn, brakes, mirrors, tires, seat belts, and current registration and insurance documents.
• On the day, signal every turn and lane change, check mirrors and blind spots visibly, and come to full stops behind the line.