Ohio BMV road test: what to expect

What the examiner checks

• Maneuverability: drive forward through a 9-foot by 20-foot course of four markers, steering right or left of a center marker as directed, stopping with the rear bumper even with the center marker
• Maneuverability: reverse back through the course, stopping with the front bumper even with the two rear markers
• On-road: stop and start, use turn signals, keep a safe following distance, turn around and back up, drive in the correct lane, perform turns

How it's scored

Maneuverability points are deducted for stopping, bumping markers, misjudging stopping distance, or not being parallel with the course.

Mistakes that end the test

• Running over or knocking down a marker
• Moving a marker out of the designated area
• Other dangerous actions

Your car

• Current registration displayed
• Working turn signals, brake lights, horn, windshield wipers and headlights
• Front doors open from inside and outside
• Automated assistance tools (e.g., automated parking) disabled

After you pass

Drivers under 18 get a provisional or junior license first. Its restrictions:

• First 12 months (under 18): no driving midnight to 6 a.m. unless with a parent or guardian (or a licensed driver 21 or older named on form BMV 2438), driving to or from work with employer form BMV 2825, or to or from a school or religious event with form BMV 2826
• First 12 months: no more than one non-family passenger unless accompanied by a parent or guardian
• After 12 months and under 18: no driving 1 a.m. to 5 a.m., with the same exceptions
• Under 18: the driver and all passengers must be belted, occupants are limited to the number of belts, and no electronic devices may be used (even hands-free) except for navigation or emergency calls
• A traffic conviction in the first six months may require a parent or guardian to ride along for six months or until age 17

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.