If your teenager is due for driver's ed, you may be
considering where to start and how you can help get them ready. With the
freedom that comes with having a driver's license, you want to prepare your
teen to be a responsible driver for their safety. Below are several tips to
prepare for drivers ed for teens:
Start the Conversation About Road Safety
Talk to your teen about the dangers of irresponsible driving
and what is expected of them on the road. Introduce them to road safety rules
and safe driving practices. Talk to them about the consequences of driving
above the speed limit, texting and driving, and distracted driving. Set some
ground rules and expectations to help keep your teen safe. Your conversation
should cover situations such as:
- Driving at Night
- Driving in Poor Weather Conditions
- Engaging in Appropriate Behavior When Driving With Friends
- Covering Costs of Vehicle Damage Due to Careless Driving
- Dealing with the Consequences of Drunk Driving
Having an open conversation about road safety and how to
avoid risky driving behaviors can help teens be more aware of their actions and
the related consequences.
Research Your State's Licensing and Training Requirements
Different states may have varying age requirements for teen
drivers. In some states, new drivers should have a learner's permit before
qualifying for a provisional driver's license. After a certain age or a
specified time with a provisional license, a new driver qualifies for a full
driver's license.
After acquiring a provisional license, your teenager has to
follow restrictions such as the number of passengers they are allowed to have
in the vehicle when driving. Have your teenager study permit requirements to be
more prepared to pass their exams and acquire a full driver's license.
Gather documents and fulfill the education requirements
needed to apply for a learner's permit. Understand the rules your teen should
follow while using the learner's permit. States have varying driver's ed course
requirements. Learn all the regulations before enrolling your teenager in a
driving school.
Model Good Behavior When Driving
Some teenagers are visual learners, so your child may learn
driving habits by observing your actions behind the wheel. Refresh your memory
on traffic laws and responsible driving practices, such as checking blind spots
and slowing down for yellow traffic lights. Practice and comment on these
behaviors when driving with your teenager. Follow the speed limit and obey all
road signs. Avoid answering phone calls or texts, and keep your eyes on the
road when driving.
Teach Your Teen Vehicle Functionality and Maintenance Basics
While understanding automobile maintenance may not be
required for getting a driver's license, it can teach your teenager to be
responsible for the car they drive. Your teen should know what different
warning signs on the vehicle mean. They should also know how to change a tire
and check the engine oil levels in the car.
Teach your teenager about the vehicle's operational
features, like indicator lights, wipers, side mirrors, and door locks. Explain
how the different gauges on the dashboard work and how to use the vehicle
emergency kit. Guide your teen on the different types of vehicle fuels and
which ones are compatible with your vehicle model.
Start Searching for a Driving School Early
While parents may be responsible for helping their teens
learn to drive, some states require new drivers to take a specific number of
lessons from a professional driving instructor. Research the nearest driving
schools and interview them to find out which ones offer drivers Ed for teens.
You should also inquire whether a driving school offers
in-person or online classes. If both are available, discuss which type works
better for your teen, depending on their schedule. Some states may not accept
online driver's ed for teens, so do your research before
deciding.
Once you settle on a school, book their driver's ed classes
ahead of time. Some schools tend to fill their schedules quickly. Booking
driving classes earlier can also help your teen plan their schedule around the
courses.
Tell Them What to Expect
Once you settle on a driving school, discuss the school's
curriculum with the instructors to know what the driver's ed class will entail.
You can also ask your teen's instructor how best to support your child's
learning outside the classroom. Instructors may offer teaching tips for when
you take your teen out for driving practice.
Once you understand what the driving school teaches, give
your teen a crash course. This may help them go into their classes feeling more
confident. Discuss your state's traffic and driving laws with your teen, and
talk to them about what to expect when they are in the driver's seat.
Prepare for Drivers Ed for Teens
Driver's ed for teens can teach them to be responsible
drivers. Preparing your teen for driving school before they start their classes
may help them learn more quickly and improve their chances of passing their
driving test. Find the right driving school for your family, and continue to
guide your teen's learning after they begin driver's ed.
