Many states require that teens attend a driver’s education or driver’s training program. Here are some suggestions on how to help make sure your teen gets the most out of it:
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Find other parents of teens who’ve completed a driver’s education program. Ask about their experience and listen to their recommendations.
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Visit the facility and find out as much as you can about the program.
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How much on-the-road practice do they do?
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If the program is not affiliated with your local high school, is it accredited?
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What are the instructors’ credentials?
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How much liability insurance does the school carry in case there’s an accident?
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How much parental involvement is encouraged?
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Talk to your teen’s instructor to find out what you should focus on when it’s your turn to be the instructor. It’s also a good idea to ask how you can supplement what they’re teaching your teen.
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Remember that a driver’s education program is just a small part of learning to drive. It’s up to you to provide your teen with the majority of their supervised driving practice.
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Avoid programs with training in skid control or other emergency driving maneuvers. Such programs have been found to increase rather than decrease crashes.