Securing a driver’s license—a critical milestone for high school students—has turned into a logistical headache. Long wait times at local DMVs have led some students to take desperate measures, traveling hours out of town just for a chance to pass their road test.
Sophomore Jackson Coleman recalls the lengths he had to go to.
“We went to Jourdanton,” Coleman said. “I had to leave school early for it. It was right around lunchtime, so we had to grab food on the way, and I missed the rest of the school day. I think I had rehearsal that day too.”
Despite the inconvenience, Coleman was optimistic about the out-of-town experience.
“Honestly, it was easier. The test there doesn’t really require much skill, so it’s easier to pass. I didn’t think of it as a bad thing,” Coleman said regarding the driving portion of the test.
While the travel can be taxing, some students, including Coleman, see a silver lining.
“The further out you go, the easier the test,” Coleman said.
Coleman noted that in Jourdanton, all he had to do was parallel park and drive through a quiet neighborhood.
“I know some kids who took their test around here and failed because it’s more challenging,” Coleman said. “If you want a good chance of passing, it’s worth the trip.”
The appeal of an easier test, however, doesn’t fully mitigate the broader impact of the delays. School board member Melinda Cox remains concerned.
“You’re in an unfamiliar environment, and that adds stress,” Cox said. “And students shouldn’t have to sacrifice school or family time just to get a license.”
While no formal partnership exists between the school district and local DMVs, Cox’s Smart Driving Club is exploring potential advocacy efforts.
“We could look at ways to prioritize young drivers or streamline the process,” Cox said, noting the club’s history of working with local law enforcement and community organizations.
Ultimately, Cox believes that hiring more DMV staff is key to addressing the issue.
“They have the technology; they just don’t have enough people,” Cox said.
In the meantime, she advises families to be proactive.
“Check the DMV site every morning for cancellations and plan well in advance,” Cox said.
For now, as DMV wait times continue to test students’ patience, it’s clear that both teens and parents are eager for solutions that bring this rite of passage closer to home. Despite the frustrations, students like Coleman have adapted.
“I’d recommend going out of town if you can,” Coleman said. “It might take a day, but you’ll have a better chance of passing.”
