As a parent, you know that there are few things more important than ensuring that your teenage driver is properly prepared for the responsibility of getting behind the wheel of a car. Although the requirements vary by state, all drivers under the age of 18 must complete drivers education training before being granted a probationary drivers license. Of course, not all drivers education programs are created equal. So, how do you choose the best drivers education program for your new driver? Consider the following tips:
Look for a thorough curriculum
Your teenager's safety is at stake, so you certainly don't want a curriculum that neglects important topics. Unfortunately, many parents don't know what should be covered in a drivers education class, so they're unsure what to look for in a good program. Of course, you'll want the class to cover the basics-- like traffic laws and rules of the road-- but you'll also want to make sure they're covering other pertinent information. For example, a thorough drivers education curriculum will cover defensive driving habits, appropriate ways to handle adverse driving conditions, accidents, emergencies, sharing the road with bicycles, motorcycles, and pedestrians, and driving under the influence.
Ask the right questions
When considering a program for your new driver, don't hesitate to ask clarifying questions. What types of questions should you ask? Here are just a few examples:
- Will the course help my daughter develop good lifelong driving habits and skills?
- Does the course teach drivers to recognize potential hazards on the road?
- Will the course teach my son to appropriately manage his driving speed?
- Does this online course use various methods of teaching its students (including reading material, audio, and video)?
- How will this online course determine whether or not my daughter has mastered the necessary information?
- What if my son needs assistance during the course? Will there be someone online available to help him?
Read reviews and ask for recommendations
Although drivers education is required for new drivers in at least 30 states, the course is no longer offered in many high schools throughout the country due to budget constraints. In response to the slow demise of school-based drivers education programs, online programs are now available for new drivers. When choosing an online program for your teenager, ask other parents and newly licensed drivers for recommendations. Additionally, you can often find reviews for online programs via a simple Google search.
Focus on quality
Remember: it's the safety of your teenage driver at stake. With this in mind, be sure that you're focusing on finding a quality drivers education program. Many programs focus on their affordability or stress that they're easy and quick. While these factors might initially seem appealing, they don't emphasize the quality of the education being provided to your teenage driver.
Be mindful of state requirements
Drivers education requirements vary by state. It's important to research the requirements in your state and then ensure that the program you've selected uses a curriculum that aligns with your state's requirements.
Ensure that the program is in good standing
Never enroll your teenage driver in a program-- online or in-person-- without first checking to make sure that the school or program is in good standing. Avoid any drivers education programs that have been subjected to disciplinary action for violating rules and licensing laws.
If you're a resident of California or Nevada looking for thorough and convenient drivers ed classes for your teenage driver, contact us today. Our online program allows your driver-to-be to work from the comfort of home while providing a well-rounded drivers education. We understand that you want your new driver to be a safe driver; allow us to help you prepare her for the challenges of the road!