Surviving Driver's Ed

We know you've been practicing in the mirror—don't even try to deny it. You're trying to get that perfect blend of "Ohmygod I just got my driver's license" excitement and "But I'm also sorta cool" chill. Well, forget about beaming from ear-to-ear, or even a tiny bit of teeth, cause it's not allowed.

Some states are now using face-recognition software to prevent identity theft and other such crimes, but it seems the software has a smile glitch. So toothy grins are no longer an option, even if this is like, the third time you've taken the test and finally passed and are just about to explode with happiness! Nope. Neutral expression please. But the entire driver's ed experience doesn't have to be a downer. We've come up with some ways to keep the process fun. But, we must provide this note: Please, PLEASE, do not do anything to put yourself in danger.  That said, let's hit the road:

In the classroom:
- Play your driving simulator like it's Mario Kart and rack up points for passing other drivers and leaving dangerous banana peels in their path.
- Enter each class period as though you're driving and when you take your seat, roll down an imaginary window to ask for some Grey Poupon, like this guy.
- When the teacher asks what to do at a four-way stop, jump out of your desk and do a lap around the classroom.

On the road with an instructor:
- Bring along a crash test dummy, "just in case."
- Just as you're pulling out of the driveway/parking lot turn to your instructor and say, "What side of the road do we drive on again? I completely forgot!"
- Ask your driver's ed instructor, "Can you help me tie on my lucky bandana? Really snug, right over the eyes."
- Pull into the nearest drivethru to grab some food.
- When you're not the driver ask, "Are we there yet?" incessantly.

Practicing with your parents:
- Before you get in the car, pop the hood and ask your parents to explain what everything does.
- Narrate your entire driving process like uber-serious Keanu Reeves in the movie Speed: "Whatever I do, I cannot let this car go above the speed limit."
- "Accidentally" hit the horn at random moments throughout your drive.
- When you get in the car say, "Oh wow, it's a lot easier when you can see over the steering wheel."

Had any scary/hilarious moments behind the wheel?  Do your parents drive you nuts when you're practicing? Share your greatest driver's ed moments in the comments!