How Do Online Drivers Ed Classes Work?
We get it. Families are busy. After sports, homework, music lessons, and all of your teen's other extracurriculars, squeezing in driver education programs can be tough. That's why so many parents are turning to online driver’s ed classes.
Taking driver’s ed online allows your teen to work on a schedule that is convenient for your family. The courses are also certified in many states nationwide.
But what are these classes like, and how do they work? We've prepared a short guide to help you understand the mechanics of online driving school for teens.
What is Online Driver’s Education?
Online driver's education is a flexible and convenient way for teens to complete their driver's ed coursework. Instead of attending traditional in-person classes, students access lessons and materials online. The courses typically include fun and informative content. Examples include videos, quizzes, games, and animations to help keep teens engaged.
Since there are no set hours, teens can work at their own pace. Some choose to power through and finish it all in a few days or do an hour a day between homework and football practice. Most in-person driver's ed classes are held in the early morning or right after school. Unfortunately, this is inconvenient for students who already have very little free time.
Why Choose Driver’s Ed Online?
Taking driver’s ed online makes the learning process smoother and more enjoyable for both teens and their parents. Here are a few key benefits to consider:
Accessible from anywhere: As long as you have an internet connection, you can access the coursework from any location. This makes it perfect for busy families or those who travel frequently.
Unlimited practice: Students can retake quizzes and review materials as often as they need to prepare for the permit exam. DriversEd.com even offers practice permit tests and guarantees you’ll pass — or you’ll get your money back!
Focused learning environment: For teens who get easily distracted by peers, studying at home can allow them to focus better.
Cost-effectiveness: Online courses are typically more affordable than traditional in-person classes.
Parental involvement: Parents can easily monitor their teen's progress and help reinforce lessons. This creates a supportive learning atmosphere where teens are more likely to thrive.
Do You Still Need Behind-the-Wheel Instruction with Online Driver’s Ed?
Yes, you still need behind-the-wheel instruction even if you take online driver's ed. Your online course will teach the basics of driving, but it can’t replace real-life experience.
Many states require teens to complete a minimum number of supervised driving hours before they can get their driver’s license. These practice sessions help teens build confidence and learn to handle different driving conditions while receiving real-time feedback. And practice is key. Sadly, around 2,514 people die in crashes involving teen drivers each year. Mandatory behind-the-wheel practice can help minimize a teen’s likelihood of being involved in a serious crash.
Many online driver's ed programs partner with local driving schools to offer behind-the-wheel training. Some states, like Texas, also offer parent-taught driver’s ed (PTDE). This allows teens between the ages of 14 and 17 to complete the theory portion of their driver’s ed online, and then do their behind-the-wheel training with a parent. It's a great way to save money while creating opportunities for parents and teens to bond.
Start Your Teen's Driving Journey Online Today
Online driver's education is a smart move for busy families looking for flexibility and convenience. It allows teens to learn at their own pace, fit studying into their schedules, and stay engaged with interactive content.
DriversEd.com’s online driver’s education courses make it easy to get started and quickly earn your driver’s license. Try our comprehensive, engaging, and state-approved programs. We'll have your teen well-prepared for both the permit test and the practical driving experience. Explore your options today!
8/5/24