A driver's licence is a privilege, not a right. It allows you to drive a motor vehicle on public highways so long as you follow the rules of the road so as not to endanger yourself or others. So if you're seriously thinking about obtaining a driver's licence, then make sure you're ready to act responsibly and follow the rules of the road.

That said, how does one obtain a driver's licence? To get a full licence, you must undergo a process to ensure you learn how to be a proper driver. The first step is to obtain an instruction permit. You'll need a copy of the Driver's Handbook. You can pick one up at various Access PEI sites across Prince Edward Island or available in pdf format, the online version.

Once you've read through the handbook, you should be familiar with many of the rules of the road and ready to finally get your instruction permit. Criteria for obtaining an instruction permit is as follows:

• If you're actively enrolled in a Driver's Education course, you must be 15 1/2 years of age
  • To find a driver's education program, try looking in the yellow pages or ask at your local Access PEI site.
  • If enrolled in a Driver's Education course, you will complete the tests at the driving school.
  • While the upfront cost of a Driver's Education course may be inconvenient, successful completion of such programs allow you to enjoy cheaper insurance premiums. So besides making you a stronger driver, they also save you money in the long term.
• If you are not enrolled in a Driver's Education course, you must be 16 years of age.
• You must successefully pass a written examination of road rules (So hopefully you took the time to read the handbook!)
• You must meet certain vision standards. If you do not meet these standards you may be referred to an eye specialist. If it is determined you need corrective lenses to meet the standards, you must obtain and wear the required lenses while driving.

These tests can be arranged for at an Access PEI site near you.

Assuming you pass all tests, you will be granted an instruction permit. This allows you to operate a motor vehicle on the highway as long as you are accompanied by a person who currently has, and has held their licence for at least four years. You must hold (and hopefully make use of) your instruction permit for 180 days after recieving it before you are eligible to perform the driving test for your full licence. Successful completion of a Driver's Education course involves 25 hours of driving with the educator and 10 hours of classroom time.

After 180 days you can arrange for a road test from one of five Access PEI sites, the closest of Charlottetown, Summerside, Alberton, Montague, or Souris. You must provide a vehicle with proper registration and insurance coverage for the test. Once you successfully complete the road test you'll be approved for your full licence. There are some restrictions for the first couple years after acquiring your licence, but these should be explained to you, and are not too limiting.

Well, you should have your licence! Enjoy! Buckle up and don't drink and drive!