When going to get your drivers license, should you take the written or actual driving test first?

In most cases, you take the written test, obtain a permit, to drive with a licensed instructor, and may have additional restrictions. This test covers the laws of the jurisdiction, state, province or country, signs and possibly penalties for breaking certain rules.

You practice with that permit, to learn how to drive safely, switching lanes, checking mirrors, blind spots and using turn signals. You practice parking, stopping with proper distance at lights or stop signs. You practice maneuverability, making right and left turns across busy intersections, may include multiple turn lanes, and handling it properly. There are a few other activities like driver's ed, additional education or testing may be involved before you're ready to schedule a skills examination, or road test to show what you've learned, each step or maneuver, performed at the request of the examiner.

When you go for the road test, there is no additional written test.

Acquiring a driver's license is a behind the wheel exam. You take a written exam to acquire your permit.

Written first. They want to know if you have at least a rudimentary knowledge of the rules of the road before they get in the car with you, for their own safety.

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