OAR 735-062-0070: Drive Test

(1) A DMV drive test examiner or a third party drive test examiner certified by DMV will conduct the actual demonstration of an applicant’s ability to drive a motor vehicle (the drive test) required under ORS 807.070(3). The test(s) must be conducted in a vehicle that can be driven only with the license class for which the application is made. For example, the drive test examiner will test a person applying for a Class C non-commercial driver license in a vehicle that can be driven only by a person with a Class C non-commercial driver license. (2) prior to conducting a drive test, a drive test examiner will ask the applicant for proof of compliance with financial responsibility requirements as described in OAR 735-050-0120 or proof of a uniform financial responsibility certificate as described in OAR 735-050-0050. (3) Prior to conducting a drive test, the drive test examiner will determine if the vehicle being used for the drive test has required equipment (for example, lights, rearview mirrors, seat belts) that is in working order and may be operated in a safe condition. The examiner may refuse to conduct a drive test in a vehicle that is determined to present health or safety risks for the examiner. (4) The drive test examiner will conduct the drive test on public streets and highways. (5) The drive test may include checks of the applicant’s ability to safely and skillfully do the following: (a) Operate vehicle equipment and controls; (b) Start the vehicle; (c) Stop the vehicle; (d) Turn and steer the vehicle; (e) Change lanes; (f) Merge with other traffic; (g) Signal; (h) Use lanes properly and maintain lane position; (i) Control speed and obey speed limits; (j) Back the vehicle; (k) Observe signs, signals, other traffic and pedestrians; (L) Use courtesy on the road and defensive driving techniques; and (m) Demonstrate general driving ability and vehicle control. (6) The first drive test may be conducted the day an applicant, who is otherwise eligible, satisfactorily completes the knowledge test and vision screening, or presents a valid instruction permit. (7) If an applicant fails a drive test, DMV or a third party testing business may administer a drive test no sooner than the following business day. (8) Any required fee for a test must be paid prior to taking the test. DMV will not refund a test fee if the applicant fails the test. (9) Test scores are valid for two years from the date the test is passed. After two years the applicant must retake and pass the applicable tests to be issued the license, permit or endorsement.