FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
AUTO / CAR - FAQ'S
The Driver Skills Test evaluates your ability to operate a vehicle safely and adhere to traffic laws. It includes a road test and assessments of your vehicle handling skills. In Michigan, all driver testing is mandated by state and federal laws. Same Day Road Test is committed to assuring that driving tests (both written and skills) are given by qualified persons trained to administer the tests in a fair, honest, and reliable manner.
You should familiarize yourself with the procedures and requirements for your driving skills test using the Driving Skills Test Study Guide as provided on the State of Michigan website here: https://www.michigan.gov/-/media/Project/Websites/sos/01preston/Driving-Skills-Test-Study-Guide.pdf
Road tests are standardized in the State of Michigan. That means you should expect the same test no matter what organization or examiner you work with. Please note that examiners are not instructors. This is an examination and they are unable to assist or encourage you throughout the test. At Same Day Road Test, we are committed to the integrity of our profession but also know that we’re working with people. You can expect our examiners to be friendly and professional. We’ll also give you great feedback at the end of the test no matter what the result was.
Before you begin the road test, the examiner will check your vehicle to ensure it’s safe to drive. The vehicle’s brakes, horn, brake lights (including center brake light), speedometer, turn signals, mirrors, seatbelts, tires, and other essential components will be inspected. If any equipment is defective and poses safety risks, the test may be refused. If it is raining, the wipers and windshield cleaner need to be working. The examiner will cancel the rest of the test if he or she deems the vehicle unfit to drive safely.
The easiest way to schedule an appointment on our website, SameDayRoadTest.com. You can also schedule your appointment over the phone at 313.882.2009. In order to book an appointment, payment will be collected to reserve your appointment. We accept credit or debit cards and we will need your permit information. You should arrive at least 15 minutes early on test day. Allow some extra time in case you need to fill out any forms and to make sure you feel calm and unhurried before you start your test.
Applicants under 18 years of age must bring the following original hard copy format documents:
- Level I Learner’s License (must be issued for at least 6 months)
- Segment II Certificate of Completion
- Driving Log documenting at least 50 hours of supervised driving, including a minimum of 10 hours at night
- Current registration for your vehicle
- Current certificate of insurance for your vehicle (most insurance companies email this to the holder so please be sure you have a copy ready to present).
- A parent or legal guardian must accompany teens during their test. The parent or guardian must provide a photo ID. No one else is permitted in the vehicle, this includes children and pets.
Adults 18 years of age or older with a Temporary Instruction Permit (TIP) must bring the following original hard copy format documents:
- Temporary Instruction Permit (TIP) (must be issued for at least one month unless “waived”)
- A photo Identification
- Current registration for your vehicle
- Current certificate of insurance for your vehicle (most insurance companies email this to the holder so please be sure you have a copy ready to present).
You must be accompanied to the test site by a properly-licensed adult; however, no one else is permitted in the vehicle during the test other than the person taking the test and the road test examiner. If an interpreter is needed, this must be provided by the customer.
YES, you must have a permit. Please double check permit expiration validation dates.
YES, you may use a rental car from a different company as long as you are listed on the rental agreement. However, we do NOT accept ZIPCARS to be used on the road test.
If it’s not obstructing the driver’s side view then yes you may use the vehicle. However, if an examiner deems the vehicle unsafe during the vehicle inspection you may rent a vehicle from us for an additional fee.
You will need to make an appointment with the Secretary of State and pass your written test. You will be issued a permit once you pass your written test with the Secretary of State.
You will need to take Segment 1 and Segment 2 Driving Education Classes. We do not offer classes but recommend using Official Driving School for all driving education classes. You can contact them at 248-548-8000.
You must check your permit road test eligibility date. You can find this date on your license or permit. This date will let you know when you can take the road test.
No, you can take the road test right away. Dstar Licenses must return to the Secretary of State after passing the road test.
You can not test drive or practice in our rental vehicles. We will give you a few minutes to adjust your seat, mirrors and become familiar with the control modules before we start the test.
We do not offer driving lessons but you may contact OFFICIAL Driving School at 248-548-8000 for driving lessons.
You can not use the car without proper proof of valid registration and insurance. We do accept digital copies. You may rent a car from us, or you can use a friend/family member’s car with valid registration and insurance.
We are currently accepting walk-ins at our Detroit location and hope to add more walk-in appointments in the near future.
The adult permit is for someone who is over the age of 18. It’s called a temporary instruction permit.
You may take the road test as many times as you need until you pass and as long as your permit is not expired. You must wait 24 hours before retaking the road test.
Yes. You must wait 24 hours before retaking the road test.
Since your child is a minor, he/she will require an adult over 21 years of age with a valid ID to accompany them during the test.
Yes, you may bring an interpreter with you for the road test. The interpreter must be at least 16 years of age with identification. Please note that interpreters can only repeat what the examiner says. If they are suspected to be helping you with your test, you will automatically be failed for getting assistance on your examination.
It will take 1-2 business days for our managers to review your refund request and submit the final decision. If approved, you will receive your refund back to your original form of payment within 3-5 business days.
You are required to bring all documents to every road test you take. Bringing the correct documents is part of the test. If you do not have the required documents, it will result in a failed test.
It’s required by the State of MI to have the original document. Photo copies are not accepted.
The road test begins during the document verification and vehicle inspection. If you happen to not make it out of the parking lot, it is a failed test.
Yes, you will need to provide the new updated registration for the vehicle to confirm the vehicle registration is renewed and you’re waiting on tabs. A receipt of the renewal will not count as document proof.
From start to finish the test takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour to complete.
Ineligibility happens when the state system isn’t accepting your information to schedule the road test. Please contact the department if you have any questions at 888-776-6424.
Yes, the Michigan Road Test is a state standardized test. It is the same test regardless of where you go.
No, you may not practice before your road test starts. If an examiner sees you practicing on the testing pad, this may result in rescheduling your test at an additional cost.
The examiner is only there to evaluate your driving and ensure that you are a safe driver. He or she will have a clipboard with a list of skills that you must demonstrate satisfactorily. Your test examiner does not want you to fail. He or she will not try to trick you or ask you to do anything dangerous or illegal. Do not pay attention to what the examiner writes; it could be either good or bad. Just consider him or her a passenger as you focus on your driving.
In certain circumstances, you may be required to retake your driving exam even if you have already passed it. If your driver’s license expired long ago or was suspended or revoked, you may need to retake both the knowledge and driving tests. In some states, once you reach a certain senior age, you’ll be required to retake the knowledge test or driving test. Your state may also require you to retake the driving test if they have concerns about your ability to drive safely for medical reasons.
Yes, you can use your backup camera during the test as long as it’s manufactured with the car. No aftermarket cameras can be used on the test.
We will email you a receipt stating that you passed your driving test.
- IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS: If you passed a Driving Skills test, you do not need to return to a Secretary of State branch office to obtain your new driver’s license, the new photo license will be mailed to you. The skills test results will be reported electronically to the Department of State. Once your skills test results are reported, you will be able to obtain a Temporary Operator License through e-Services. You should get an email confirmation (if an email was provided) when they have entered your results.
- The Driver Testing Business should have your skills test results electronically reported to the Secretary of State by 11 pm on the day of your driving skills test; however they will not be posted until 8 am the following business day.
- Go online to https://dsvsesvc.sos.state.mi.us/TAP/ and select “More Driver Services”.
- You will be redirected to MILogin. If you already have a MILogin account, log in. If you do not have a MILogin account, follow the prompts to sign up.
- If you are logging in for the first time, you will be authenticating with the following information to get access to CARS e-Services. a. First and Last name b. ID Number (Driver’s License Number or State Identification Number) c. Date of Birth d. Last Four of SSN
- Once you have accessed your e-Services account, you should have an alert that you have a Temporary Operator License that is available to be printed.
- Follow the prompts to print your Temporary Operator License. If you have any issues obtaining this online, you may contact the Department of State Information Center at 888-767-6424.
The road test is a 2 part test. The first part of the test is the basic control skills test, which happens in the parking lot. Here you’ll have to perform three manuevers which includes a forward stop, curved backing into a designated space, and blind side backing (parallel parking). The applicant must pass the parking portion in order to go on the road. The road portion will consist of main roads, residential and highway.
A facilitator assists applicants in obtaining a driver license, which may include language interpretation, driver training, and scheduling appointments. Be cautious of facilitators charging fees for instruction unless they are certified by the Department of State. Facilitators must bring their own ID and identify themselves as a facilitator to the examiner.
Automatic failures can occur from disregarding instructions, traffic violations, accidents, or dangerous driving behavior. Specific violations include failing to yield, speeding, and not wearing a safety belt.
If your test is terminated due to driver performance, you must wait at least 24 hours before rescheduling. Tests cannot be rescheduled for the same day.
Parents must ensure their teen logs at least 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night. This log must be presented during the Segment 2 Driver Education and again during the driving skills test.
Review the scoring standards, practice required maneuvers, and ensure your vehicle is in safe working order. Consider using the RoadReady® app to track your practice hours. You may also check out the PREPARE FOR YOUR ROAD TEST section on our website.
On your test, you’ll be graded on turning, intersections, lane changes, expressway driving, urban/residential areas, curves, railroad crossings, general driving habits, ability to follow roadway signs and laws, and other standard driving procedures required for operating a vehicle.
TIPS TO HELP YOU WITH YOUR ROAD TEST
- Practice Regularly: Log at least 50 hours of practice, including 10 at night.
- Know Your Vehicle: Familiarize yourself with all controls and features.
- Pre-Test Vehicle Check: Ensure brakes, lights, mirrors, and tires are in good condition.
- Follow Instructions: Listen carefully to the examiner and follow their directions precisely.
- Obey Traffic Laws: Always stop at stop signs, obey speed limits, and yield as required.
- Use Turn Signals: Signal your turns and lane changes well in advance.
- Maintain Safe Distances: Keep a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of you.
- Stay Calm and Focused: Breathe and stay relaxed during the test; anxiety can affect your performance.
- Check Blind Spots: Always check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes.
- Perform Maneuvers Smoothly: Practice smooth stops, turns, and parking maneuvers.
- Avoid Distractions: Keep the radio off and avoid conversations during the test.
- Wear Your Seatbelt: Always buckle up and ensure all passengers do too.
- Practice Defensive Driving: Be aware of your surroundings and anticipate other drivers’ actions.
- Know the Route: Familiarize yourself with common driving test routes and maneuvers.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
TORNEADO
- Setup Early: Move to the correct lane in advance.
- Traffic Check: Look in all directions; make checks obvious.
- Signal: Activate turn signals 100 feet before turning.
- Smooth Entry: Enter turn lanes at designated openings; don’t straddle lines.
- Yield: Give way to traffic and pedestrians; stop at intersections if necessary.
- Complete Turns: Finish in the correct lane without crossing lines or hitting curbs.
STOP INTERSECTIONS
- Full Stop: Stop before the line or crosswalk; don’t roll forward.
- Safe Distance: Keep a gap where you can see the rear tires of the vehicle ahead.
- Traffic Check: Look thoroughly before proceeding.
THROUGH INTERSECTIONS (NO STOP)
- Check Traffic: Look in all directions; don’t stop for green lights.
- Yield: Give way to pedestrians and vehicles; maintain speed.
EXPRESSWAY/RURAL HIGHWAY
- Merge Smoothly: Check for openings; signal before merging.
- Traffic Awareness: Regularly check mirrors and ahead for hazards.
- Cushion of Space: Maintain distance from other vehicles.
- Exit Safely: Signal well in advance and reduce speed smoothly.
URBAN/RESIDENTIAL AREAS
- Watch for Hazards: Regularly check for pedestrians and bicycles.
- Speed Control: Keep pace with traffic; stay in the right lane if slower.
- Lane Changes: Check blind spots and signal.
CURVES
- Slow Down: Reduce speed before entering a curve.
- Maintain Control: Keep both hands on the wheel and stay within lane markings.
RAILROAD CROSSINGS
- Approach Cautiously: Look for trains and listen.
- Smooth Crossing: Don’t shift gears over tracks; keep hands on the wheel.
GENERAL TIPS
- Seat Belts: Wear yours and ensure all passengers do too.
- Traffic Checks: Make head movements obvious.
- Speed Control: Don’t exceed speed limits; adjust to conditions.
- Steering Control: Keep both hands on the wheel; don’t palm.
- Timing: Don’t brake too early or too late; signal correctly.
MISCELLANEOUS
- Emergency Vehicles: Change lanes or slow down when passing stationary emergency vehicles.
- Obey Laws: Follow all traffic signs and signals during the test.