Learning to drive triggers major anxiety in many new drivers. The best way to crush that anxiety is to take a comprehensive driver’s ed course. Whether you’re a teen about to get behind the wheel, a parent helping their child learn to drive, or a young adult who needs a driving refresher, there are driver’s education courses made just for you.
Here’s what to look for in a driver’s ed course and how to find the right one for your unique learning style and needs.
Exploring Different Driver’s Ed Course Options
A quick search on driving courses will bring up a lot of options. How can you possibly choose the right one?
Start by learning how each type of course works. Some courses are taught in person while others are completed completely online. The four main types of driver’s ed courses are:
Online driver’s ed: Convenient, self-paced learning with interactive online modules that are perfect for busy schedules or if you like learning at your own pace.
In-person: Traditional driving school with a qualified instructor in a classroom setting.
Parent-taught: Combines the flexibility of online learning with family involvement, which could help anxious new drivers. Can also be a great safe driving refresher for parents as they help their child.
Instructor-led: Courses taught by an instructor in a structured setting that might be available in virtual or in-person formats.
Your Learning Preferences Play a Role in Picking the Best Course
Do you know your learning style? Some people prefer to take in content or information visually, while others like to hear it. Others might prefer hands-on work. Your learning style can play a big role in finding the right driver’s ed course.
Generally, your learning style can help you start your course search:
Visual learner: You might do best using online courses that let you work through information at your own pace, often involving slideshows and interactive modules.
Auditory learner: Courses that let you listen in to soak up information may be best for you, such as in-person lecture courses or using audio-recorded modules in an online course.
Kinesthetic learner: You’re a person who wants to learn by doing, so look for courses that have a lot of practical applications, like a parent-led or instructor-led course that prioritizes in-car lessons.
But before you put too much pressure on learning styles, remember that they’re not hard and fast rules. Your learning preference is a great way to start narrowing down courses, but it shouldn’t be your only criterion. Instead, consider courses that get you excited to learn, like one that uses games to help you retain information.
How to Evaluate Course Content
The actual content of any driver’s ed course is one of the most important factors in picking a course. A course that is fun, engaging, and budget-friendly won’t do much good if it doesn’t cover the things you need to learn.
A good driver’s ed course covers the core components of life on the road, including:
Traffic laws
Basic vehicle operation
Practical behind-the-wheel training
Your course needs to cover both theoretical knowledge (AKA classroom-style learning) and practical skills (your time spent behind the wheel). Yes, even online courses should have a practical component, whether you work with a parent, guardian, or professional driving instructor. Getting both classroom and in-car experience can help you better retain what you’re learning and lower anxiety associated with being on the road.
Does the Course Meet State Requirements?
Different states have different requirements for driver’s ed. Not all courses meet these requirements. If you take a course that doesn’t, you’re probably out of luck and will have to take another, state-accredited course. Bummer.
Start by verifying a course’s accreditation. Most state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or Department of Transportation (DOT) websites will have a directory that lists state-accredited driving schools, even online ones like Aceable.
Second, make sure the course you want to take is right for your state. Some courses are specific to one state or even a certain exam in a state, so double-check you’ve got the right one!
Find a Course That Fits Your Needs
Your final step in choosing a driver’s ed course might be the most important: what works for you? Consider a course that meets your:
Schedule: If you’re busy with sports or clubs, you may need a course that’s flexible with lesson times.
Budget: Decide how much you want to spend on a driving course.
Specific goals: What are you hoping to learn? Do you need a comprehensive course for new drivers or a refresher course to help you stay safe and potentially save on car insurance?
Choose the Perfect Driver’s Ed Course Today
Now that you know what to look for in a driver’s ed course, it’s time to find the one that’s right for you.
Looking for a driving course that meets all of your learning needs? Consider Aceable. We use instructional design principles and evidence-based teaching to create driving courses that help you retain what you’re learning. More importantly, the courses are actually fun to do.
See how Aceable is changing driver’s ed and find your perfect course today.
Updated 09/27/2024