Many states only license drivers who have completed driver training. Even when training is not required, it can be an invaluable investment in your confidence and competence on the road.
Driving schools specialize in meeting a variety of needs, providing new driver training, refresher courses and defensive driving classes for experienced drivers, and helping drivers with disabilities.
Your AAA club may offer driver training or endorse a local school. Professional driving schools will be listed in the Yellow Pages. In most states, the Department of Motor Vehicles enforces standards for driving schools, however it cannot recommend a school. In states where the DMV does not oversee driver education, there is usually another state department, such as the Department of Education.
"Test Drive" Alternatives
Visit licensed schools in your area. Talk to instructors, sit in on a class, and take a trial lesson, if possible. Also check on polices about refunds, make-up sessions, and contracts.
Price is certainly a factor, but consider the overall value, which includes the quality of instruction, class size, and time behind the wheel.
Evaluate Teachers and Tools
Any state-approved school must be staffed by licensed instructors. The school's license must be displayed.
Instructors should have completed at least three professional development courses from organizations such as AAA/CAA, The Driving School Association of the Americas, Inc., American Driver and Traffic Safety Education Association, and the Association of Driver Educators for the Disabled.
Ask the school's management how often instructors are monitored. Also ask about the individual experience of instructors - overall and at the school you are considering.
The best driving schools will provide a variety of tools, including current texts and programming delivered via computer, TV or video. Each student should receive a copy of the state driver's handbook.
Evaluate Trainer Vehicles
Trainer vehicles should be late-model cars in good condition. Verify that every vehicle has:
- Rearview mirror and exterior side mirrors.
- Dual-control brake for the instructor.
- Safety belts, air bags, and head restraints.
- Power steering and brakes.
- A wedge-shape seat cushion and pedal extensions to ensure visibility for all students.
- Large "Student Driver" signs on the vehicle. The signs may also identify the driving school.
Evaluate Instruction
Look for a school that offers a balance of classroom and in-car instruction. A total of 30 classroom hours over four to six weeks is a minimum for most new drivers.
Beginners learn best with two 60- or 90-minute in-car lessons per week. If two students are in the car, each should drive no more than 45 minutes per lesson.
In-car sessions should allow only two students per car. (Your state may allow only a single student driver per vehicle.) These lessons on the road should follow planned routes that give students experience on residential streets, in city traffic, on rural roads, and on highways and limited-access freeways.
Students should also have opportunity to master strategies for night driving and driving in limited visibility due to bad weather.
Ask instructors how they provide feedback. Ideally, they should evaluate progress after each lesson.
Classroom and in-car lessons should be augmented by practice sessions. Young drivers benefit when the school prepares parents to provide 100 hours of supervised driving experience.
Evaluate Reputation
Reputable schools will encourage you to contact customers. Ask clients about their satisfaction with the school.
The Better Business Bureau also provides reports on local businesses.
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