Housley to introduce legislation that streamlines behind-the-wheel testing

Legislation authored by Senator Karin Housley (R-St. Marys Point) aims to dramatically improve wait times for driver’s tests. The proposal, which will be introduced at the beginning of the 2020 legislative session, would allow private behind-the-wheel instructors to become certified to administer driving tests.

The legislation comes following a troubling investigation by KARE 11, which found students of some driving schools are given preference for taking driver’s tests while other students are resorting to camping outside testing centers to secure a testing spot in the face of exorbitant wait times. For many students waiting to take their driver’s test, appointments are scheduled months in advance and at locations nowhere near where the student lives.

“Parents should not have to camp outside overnight or drive hours out of their way so their child can take a driver’s test, nor should certain students be given preference,” said Senator Housley. “Students are already required to spend five hours behind-the-wheel with an instructor. Allowing those instructors to also administer the actual driving test would go a long way toward streamlining the process.

The proposed legislation would allow private behind-the-wheel instructors to become certified by the state of Minnesota to administer driving tests. The state would be responsible for establishing a uniform criterion on which students must be tested, as well as approving acceptable testing routes and providing the necessary paperwork for conducting the exam.

“People in Stillwater shouldn’t be forced to drive to Grand Rapids just to take a driver’s test. This is a reasonable, workable solution. I’m looking forward to continuing to work with stakeholders, including the state agencies, and getting this passed next session,” Senator Housley continued.

Senator Karin Housley, of St. Marys Point, represents the Forest Lake area and the St. Croix River Valley in the Minnesota Senate. Senator Housley serves as chairwoman of the Family Care and Aging Committee and is an assistant majority leader.