A Little Homework Can Steer You to the Right Driver Training

Even parents who have the time and temperament to teach their teens to drive should consider the added benefits of training by an expert. Driver training is important. You may be an exceptional driver but not the best teacher – either because your competence is so ingrained it has become unconscious, or because you are more likely to overreact to your own children.

Professional instructors have been trained to provide comprehensive training that addresses the mistakes new drivers are most likely to make. Even parents who are exceptional drivers should consider professional training by an expert.

Driver training is only the beginning. Your teen will still lack the experience – and perhaps the maturity – needed to be a safe driver immediately. Like anything else, your teen needs practice to become an informed, safe driver.

The extent of driver education offered through high schools is highly variable. Budget cuts and liability issues have limited the amount of hands-on experience a student receives. In some areas, no on-the-road experience is provided.

Training at a commercial driver training school may be a worthwhile investment. The key is finding a school that meets your needs. To make this process easier, AAA offers a brochure titled "Choosing a Driving School."

Here are some pointers that will help your family identify the best training program in your area:

• Visit each facility and observe the instructors and check out the vehicles and training materials.
• Ensure the facility is fully licensed and meets all state instructional standards.
• Ask for a list of references so you can get a customer's point of view.
• Consult your local Better Business Bureau to find out if there are complaints about the facility.
• Check on polices for refunds, make-up sessions, and contracts.
• Avoid "quickie" courses. Look for a balance of classroom and in-car instruction. A minimum of 30 classroom hours and six hours of behind-the-wheel instruction over four to six weeks are recommended.
• AAA recommends at least 50 additional hours of behind-the-wheel practice with a licensed driver before the teen applies for a license.

Download a printable version of the Parent- Teen Driving Agreement and the Parent-to-Parent Agreement. Please note that these agreements may be customized to fit your needs. You may choose to use the agreements as is, or only choose sections that you feel comfortable in implementing.

Next: Put Together Your New Driver Toolkit