The Ultimate Oregon DMV Drive Test Checklist: Arrive Prepared, Not Surprised

The day of your Oregon DMV drive test is the final hurdle between you and the freedom of a driver's license. It's completely normal to feel nervous, but the best way to combat those nerves is with thorough preparation. Walking into the DMV knowing your vehicle is ready and your paperwork is in order allows you to focus on one thing: driving safely.

This ultimate checklist is your guide to a stress-free test day. We'll cover what you need to bring, the requirements your car must meet, and the skills you need to have mastered.

Part 1: Your Vehicle Requirements Checklist

The examiner will perform a pre-test vehicle safety inspection. If your car fails this check, your test will be canceled on the spot, and you'll have to reschedule. [37] Go through this list with the car you plan to use a few days before your test.

Valid Registration: The vehicle must have current registration, with up-to-date stickers on the license plates. [37]
Proof of Liability Insurance: You must have the current insurance card for the vehicle. It must show the policy number and expiration date. Photocopies and electronic versions on your phone are acceptable. [4]
Brakes: Brakes must be in good working order.
Brake Lights: All three brake lights (left, right, and center) must function correctly.
Turn Signals: Both front and rear turn signals must work on both the left and right sides. [37]
Horn: The horn must be audible. The examiner will likely ask you to honk it. [37]
Tires: Tires must have adequate tread and not be bald or damaged. [37]
Windshield: The windshield must be free of cracks or large chips that obstruct your view.
Wipers: Windshield wipers must be operational.
Muffler: The vehicle cannot have an excessive exhaust leak or be unreasonably loud. [37]
Doors: The front passenger door must open and close properly from both the inside and outside. [37]
Passenger Seat: The front passenger seat must be reasonably clean, secure, and free of clutter for the examiner. [37]
Seatbelts: The seatbelts for both the driver and the examiner must be working correctly. [37]
Mirrors: The vehicle must have functional side and rearview mirrors. [37]
Headlights and Taillights: Ensure all lights are working.

Part 2: Your Personal Document Checklist

Forgetting a single document will also result in a canceled test. Gather these items the day before your appointment.

Your Valid Oregon Instruction Permit: You must present your valid permit.
Proof of Identity, Name, and Address: You must bring documents that prove who you are. If you are applying for a REAL ID, the requirements are very specific. Refer to our complete Document Checklist article for details. [4]
Social Security Number: You will be required to provide your SSN. [4]
Appointment Confirmation: Have your drive test appointment confirmation handy.
Test Fees: Be prepared to pay the drive test fee and the license issuance fee. The DMV recommends bringing two separate forms of payment (e.g., two checks) for the separate fees. [4, 43]
A Licensed Supervising Driver: Since you are still a permit holder, you must be accompanied to the DMV by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old.

For Teen Drivers (Under 18), Also Bring:

Proof of Driving Practice: You must certify that you have completed either 100 hours of supervised driving or 50 hours plus a driver education course. [14] Your parent or guardian will sign off on this.
Parent or Legal Guardian: Your parent or guardian must be present to sign the necessary paperwork for your provisional license.

Part 3: The Driving Skills Checklist

The Oregon drive test assesses your ability to safely operate a vehicle in typical traffic situations. The examiner will not try to trick you, but they will be evaluating these key skills. [36]

Vehicle Control: Smooth starting, stopping, accelerating, and braking.
Lane Changes: Properly executing lane changes using the correct procedure: signal, check mirrors, look over your shoulder into the blind spot, and then move when safe. [36] The examiner will expect you to know when a lane change is necessary to prepare for a turn without being told.
Turns: Making left and right turns from the correct lane, into the correct lane, at a safe speed. [36]
Backing Up: You will be asked to back the vehicle in a straight line. You should look primarily over your right shoulder, not just in your mirrors or at a backup camera. [23]
Speed Control: Maintaining a speed that is appropriate for the conditions and not exceeding the posted speed limit. [36]
Observation: Constantly scanning your surroundings, checking your mirrors, and being aware of pedestrians, cyclists, and other potential hazards. [36]
Following Distance: Keeping a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.
Obeying Signs and Signals: This is critical. Coming to a complete stop at all stop signs and red lights and obeying all other traffic signs is mandatory. [23]
Yielding Right-of-Way: Knowing when to yield to other vehicles and pedestrians at controlled and uncontrolled intersections. [36]

Good to Know: Unlike many other states, parallel parking is NOT part of the standard Oregon DMV drive test. [23]

By using this checklist to prepare your vehicle, documents, and skills, you can walk into your drive test with the confidence you need to pass. Good luck!