Nebraska DMV road test: what to expect

What the examiner checks

• Starting and stopping
• Right and left turns
• Lane usage and position
• Stop signs and traffic signals
• Speed control
• Use of right of way
• Parking and backing

How it's scored

The examiner marks errors on a tablet by maneuver (2-point items and 8/16-point general driving behavior items). A passing score is 15 points or less. There are twelve automatic-failure items, which end the test.

Mistakes that end the test

• Any action that makes the examiner concerned for anyone's safety

Your car

• Good mechanical condition with working brake lights
• Working speedometer
• Clean, working seat belts
• Clean interior
• An autocycle can't be used for a Class O drive test

After you pass

Drivers under 17 (Class O after 12 months on a POP with fewer than 3 points), or 18 get a provisional or junior license first. Its restrictions:

• POP requires 6 months on LPE/SCP/LPD with fewer than 3 points in that period, plus a driver safety course or the 50-hour certification
• No driving midnight to 6 a.m. unless to or from school activities or work, or accompanied by a parent, guardian or licensed driver 21+ (1 point if violated)
• First 6 months: no more than one passenger under 19 who is not an immediate family member (1 point if violated)
• No interactive wireless device use while driving
• All passengers must be buckled
• POP expires at 18
• Zero tolerance under 21 (.02 BAC); a first offense means 30-day court impoundment
• Drivers under 21 with 6+ points in a year must complete a driver improvement course within three months

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.