BY ARIELLE KRAUS
Turning 16 is an important milestone for most high school students. It is a time when they are old enough to obtain a driver’s license and finally get a glimpse of true independence.
Many teenagers may not want to get their license as soon as possible for a variety of reasons, such as the fear of driving, the inability to afford a car or by the decision of their parents. However, if one has the ability to learn to drive, they should obtain a driver’s license sooner rather than later.
Driving comes with a new sense of independence and a handful of responsibilities. This freedom is something that many high schoolers long to have and enjoy. It is one of the privileges that come with one’s high school years.
“I chose to get my license early because I didn’t want to wait,” junior Ben Roberts said. “I’ve seen my friends wait months to get their licenses and they regretted it badly. Because of that, I didn’t want to make that mistake.”
Many individuals rely on their parents to take them from place to place. It may become a conflict when one’s siblings also need to be taken somewhere, and the parent cannot take both children to both places at the same time. By getting a driver’s license, this problem can be solved as the teenager can drive themselves.
Driving comes with a new sense of independence and a handful of responsibilities. This freedom is something that many high schoolers long to have and enjoy.
“I got my license because I wanted the independence of having my license, so I could go wherever I want when I want and not have to rely on anyone for rides,” junior Chloe Silver said. “My parents also encouraged me to get my license so that they didn’t have to drive me everywhere anymore. It’s just a fun experience to have the freedom of having your license.”
High school students with a large number of extracurricular activities would also benefit from getting their driver’s license at the age of 16. The ability to drive oneself to and from activities is extremely important and eases the stress of needing a ride.
“I chose to get my driver’s license on time because it would make things a lot easier on my mom,” junior Skylah Klein said. “As an athlete, I have practice four nights a week that I would need to be taken to and from. Being able to drive [myself] has cut down the amount of time my mom spends driving because I can get myself to practice, and sometimes even bring my sister too.”
The teenage years are full of job opportunities. From babysitting to working in a store, teenagers often decide to find a job in order to earn extra cash. If one is unable to drive, it is very difficult to easily go to and from work.
A driver’s license would also be most important in the event of an emergency. Things happen unexpectedly and sometimes a teenager is needed to drive a parent, family member or friend in the event of an emergency. Having a driver’s license on hand will be extremely beneficial and could save that person’s life.
“I think that if they’re able to, everyone should get their license at 16. It is a great privilege, gives some responsibility and makes things much easier for our parents.”
Junior Skylah Klein
Additionally, having a license puts responsibility in one’s own hands. The driver is responsible for their safety when driving a vehicle. This is important because sometimes driving with a friend may not feel safe, so being able to drive oneself places allows the driver to feel more comfortable.
Turning 16 is an exciting time in one’s life that should be celebrated with a driver’s license. The freedom and independence that comes with this new opportunity is something so important for teenagers today.
“I think that if they’re able to, everyone should get their license at 16,” Klein said. “It is a great privilege, gives some responsibility and makes things much easier for our parents.”
Photo by Makinzi Burgs
