Running Down Driver Education
By Teresa Ambord
There was a time not that long ago when driver education consisted of lessons provided by mom or dad in an empty parking lot. Unfortunately, an increase in accidents and fatalities involving teenage drivers has forced most states to adopt stricter driver education requirements.
For starters, some states have raised the minimum age requirement for obtaining an unrestricted drivers license. For instance in New Jersey, although licenses are issued to drivers as early as age 17, the license comes with certain limitations such as the number of passengers the driver is allowed to transport at one time and the hours during which the driver can operate the vehicle.
Additionally, most states require a certain number of classroom instruction taught by an instructor specially certified in driver training. While some states will allow student drivers to obtain their instruction from online schools, there are strict policies governing this as well. Before enrolling in any online course, it is important that you first check with your state's department of motor vehicles.
Getting the Needed Training
Driver education used to be a standard part of the high school curriculum. However, like many other things, it has fallen victim to budget cuts leaving teenagers to find other alternatives. Most students turn to driving schools that offer a combination of classroom and behind-the-wheel training. Because the training must be completed outside of the regular school day, it places another burden on already busy teenagers. And, with an average price tag of $300 for the course, it places a financial burden as well. Some states have approved online training. And, while these courses are indeed less expensive, it is important to remember that they only cover the classroom portion of the training; behind the wheel training will require an additional expenditure.
The Benefits
In addition to the obvious benefits of enrolling in a formal driver education program: learning how to safely operate a vehicle, and developing an awareness of the consequence of unsafe or reckless driving, there are other important reasons why students should be encouraged to consider enrolling in a driver education course. One of the biggest benefits is financial. Many insurance companies will offer discounted premiums for drivers who successfully complete driver education training. Some even offer additional incentives for students who achieve a particular score or who remain accident-free over a certain amount of time.
A Final Word
Before enrolling in a driver education course, it is important to verify that the program will be recognized by your state's department of motor vehicles. While there are thousands of driver training schools in operation, not all of them are certified by the state in which they operate. And, unfortunately, many students, perhaps attracted by low prices or flexible attendance policies, don't learn this until after the course has been completed.
