How do you change a front driver's side turn indicator light bulb on a 2001 VW Jetta?

VW and other professional mechanics use plastic pry tools to pry on the front of the lamp assembly and it will pop out so you can swap the bulb. Several manufacturers make sets of these tools, the professionals tend to use Bojo Tools, but there are cheap sets from Harbor Freight and plenty of other tool companies.

Just don't use a screwdriver without some protection as the paint will be damaged. You might be able to lay down some electrical tape on the paint and then use the flathead screwdriver. Several tool manufacturers list 'Plastic pry tools' and it is a good idea to have a few basic ones in your tool kit. Taping a screwdriver is pretty risky and when you are working with plastic trim or near painted surfaces the cost of repairing damage will be many times that of buying a few good tools.