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Can you practice driving without a permit in a parking lot?

My dad has been taking me out to practice driving in a nearby parking lot. I don’t have my permit yet, and I’m worried about getting a ticket before I even get my license! Are you allowed to practice your driving in a parking lot without a permit?

avatar
Holden Easterbrook · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Driving is a skill that you hone over time, so it’s good that your father is helping you build good driving habits early. However, you’ll want to check your local and state laws because there are a few complications concerning permitless driving in parking lots.
Be aware that:
  • Although parking lots are considered public places, they’re still owned by a business. You may want to consider if the business owner wants you to practice driving on their property.
  • Driving without a license or
    permit
    is illegal in most places, unless you’re on a private road. Check the laws where you live.
  • Familiarize yourself with laws surrounding private roads, as well. Private doesn’t necessarily mean lawless.
When you finally get your license, you’ll want to start off with a
clean driving record
. Until you know the local laws and have the business owner’s permission, you should hold off on practicing. In the meantime, you and your father can look for affordable
car insurance
—you’ll need it once you get your license.
For help finding the best rates available for young drivers, get the
Jerry
app. As a licensed insurance broker, Jerry scans quotes from more than 50 insurance companies and delivers the best deals straight to you. In less than two minutes, you could save an average of $887 on your car insurance every year.
MORE: How to save on car insurance with a good student discount
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