The learning process can be a long and frustrating one, but the rewards of passing your road test are worth it. We talked to dozens of instructors, driving-school owners, and brand-new drivers, who shared their secrets for passing—from practicing turns in a Costco parking lot to finding a test site way out in Queens. They also shared their best tips for getting comfortable behind the wheel.

Empty parking lots are ideal for new drivers, because they simulate a real-world driving environment while minimizing the dangers of actual traffic. They’re also a safe place to practice basic skills like turning, stopping, and shifting gears. As your teen gains confidence, you can start taking them out on the streets and adding more complex maneuvers—like merging or navigating curves.

Public High Schools

High school parking lots are often empty outside of school hours, and they’re great for practicing maneuvers like backing up, turning, and parking. They also typically have a mix of different types of roads, so your teen can get familiar with a wide range of conditions.

Shopping Malls

Open parking areas at retail stores (like Wal-Mart) are another good option, as they’re usually large and have plenty of space for your teen to Learn driving Near me . They’re also a safe place for beginners to drive, as they’re typically quiet and free of distractions.

Industrial Areas

Industrial areas are quiet and generally low-traffic, making them a good place for new drivers to practice their skills. They’re also usually full of a variety of road types, including smaller streets and larger roads, allowing your teen to get familiar with a variety of situations.

Stadiums and Arenas

Baseball, football, and soccer stadiums and arenas are a good place to practice driving, as they tend to be relatively empty outside of game times. They’re also a good choice because they’re likely to have large parking lots, which can be helpful for hone your teen’s parallel-parking skills.

Coney Island in Brooklyn is a good location for practicing driving because it has lots of amusement parks and big parking areas. However, it’s best to go there before 10 am to avoid too much traffic. The same goes for Jones Beach in Nassau County, where you can find large parking areas that are perfect for practicing your driving skills.