The Automated Knowledge Testing System is a web-based system for administering the Class D and Class M driver’s permit test. The school has two testing proctors and students who are at least 15 years, 11 months old can schedule a time during the school day with one of the proctors to take the test. If the student passes the test, they are given a print out with a QR code. This paper is then taken to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, along with the appropriate forms of identification and associated fees, and the student is issued their permit. For students who pass at 15 years, 11 months of age, they can go to the DMV with their QR code as soon as they turn 16 to be given their permit. The test can be taken as many times as needed for any student who fails.

One of the school’s testing proctors and Special Education teacher, Bobby Jo Carlson, said the school became an AKTS site in order to save families valuable time.

“Clymer became an AKTS site out of desperation to find a solution to students missing school and parents missing work to go to the DMV to take the permit test only to have the student fail it and have to take more time off to return to the DMV to retake it,” Carlson said. “This saves families valuable time.”

Carlson’s fellow testing proctor is Scott Neckers, Clymer’s Earth Science and Driver’s Education teacher. The test is only available for Clymer students, and Carlson said it also offers audio for students who need the accommodation of having tests read, something that can provide a huge benefit for them, along with letting students who experience anxiety to take the test in a familiar setting, potentially reducing stress and improving performance.

Students at Clymer Central School are now able to take the test to earn their driver’s learning permits through the Automated Knowledge Testing System. Students are able to take the test with accommodations such as having audio, and the ability to take it in a familiar setting. Submitted photos

“The process for becoming an AKTS site is simple,” Carlson said. “The Online Knowledge Test Application is available for any high school in New York State. Additional information about the program can be obtained by emailing dmv.sm.OKTASupport@dmv.ny.gov. The process only takes a few business days to complete.”

For more information, contact Carlson at bjcarlson@clymercsd.org or Neckers at sneckers@clymercsd.org.