How Much Does Driver’s Ed Cost?

Driver education is crucial to your safety while on the road. A quality driver training course will help you learn defensive driving techniques, cover different accident types, and lessen their likelihood.

New drivers may need to take up formal training before they are granted a license. Wondering how much driver’s ed costs in your area? Read on to learn more.

Driving School Cost

The average price of a driving course differs significantly between states and locations and is affected by the price of fuel. Driving school costs often range from $30 to $180. Actual road training sessions cost $50 to $150 each. The average all-inclusive package offered by driving schools costs between $200 and $800.

In California, the base cost of the six-hour behind-the-wheel training session is $400.00. Due to fluctuating fuel costs, instructors could charge additional fees.

Meanwhile, driver’s ed courses in Massachusetts can cost up to $800.

Take this breakdown as an example:

Again, prices may significantly vary depending on what type of package you want or are required to get.

Factors That Affect the Cost of Driving Schools

Aside from fuel costs, you’ll have to keep your eyes peeled for other factors that may affect the cost of driving classes. Consider these examples:

Hourly Rates

In some states, instructors will charge you hourly rates for as low as $50 per hour. State governments usually require a minimum number of hours to qualify for the driving exam, so the total can still be costly.

Flat Rate Packages

You can get a discounted price for driving classes if you take advantage of a bundle deal. For example, some schools will offer a six-lesson package that you can pay for in full. The cost will be much cheaper than paying for each lesson individually.

Vehicle Included

Most driving schools will supply the car you’ll use in the class. Depending on the vehicle, you might get charged with a pricer bill, especially if the school has to pick you up and drop you off during your sessions.

Taking Driver’s Ed Courses Online

Many states now allow student drivers to complete the classroom portion of their driver’s education online. This not only saves you time but also saves you money.

Before signing up, make sure that the class you are paying for is licensed in your state. There are many shady operators prepared to take your money for nothing, so any online vendor’s registration page should include a clear and visible license number.

Here are some of the benefits of taking a course online:

Pacing

An online driver’s education course is usually self-paced. It acknowledges that each student has a unique learning style and allows them to learn and advance at their speed.

Flexibility

A majority of online driver’s education courses are made to allow students to study earlier classroom modules whenever they need to in case they have any concerns or want to review certain material.

Focus

People with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Syndrome) or those with an executive functioning disorder are more inclined to take an online course. Online education allows them to focus and learn without typical classroom distractions.

Is Driver’s Ed Required?

Each state has its unique set of regulations regarding driver’s education. Learners typically need to pass a written and practical driving test before getting their driver’s license. There are 37 states where teens must take a driver’s ed course before sitting in for the test to get their license. In other states, only learners between the ages of 14 and 18 are subject to the requirement.

Some states mandate training sessions for new drivers of all ages. Additionally, there are regulations for states where a driver’s ed program isn’t required. You can read up on your state’s traffic laws to know more about what rules apply in your area.

Public vs Private Driver’s Ed

There are two types of driver’s ed. Teachers or coaches from local high schools who have been certified as driving instructors by the Department of Motor Vehicles conduct public driver’s education.

Meanwhile, a private agency approved by the state to instruct young drivers administers private driver’s education. Private sessions may be held in the driving school’s facility, or they may establish a partnership with a nearby high school to provide classes after regular school hours.

Why Is Driver’s Ed Important?

Driving lessons aren’t only good for rookie drivers who are both eager and nervous to get behind the wheel. Even seasoned drivers may benefit greatly from taking a refresher course as traffic laws change over the years.

Here are some benefits you can get from taking a driver’s ed course:

Improved Driving Confidence

The more confident you are, the safer it is for you and your passengers. You will be able to recognize and avoid unsafe driving scenarios which may lead to a collision.

Insurance Discounts

If you take a driver’s education course, you can earn insurance discounts. Some insurance companies may reduce your premiums for at least a few months if you offer proof of completion of a course, such as a receipt or a certificate.

Learning from Driving Experts

Driving instructors are expected to know what driving scenarios to expect in your area. In addition to learning the fundamentals, the courses teach you interstate driving, what to do in bad weather, how to negotiate busy city streets, and what to do in an emergency.

Good Driving Record

Completing specific driver’s education courses can help you improve your driving record and earn points on your license. If you get a ticket and/or are in an accident, taking the course will either negate or provide good points to your license.

What to Look For In a Driving Course

Here are some of the things to consider when looking for driving schools in your area:

Vehicle Quality

Vehicles used for training are often filled with dings and scratches. That’s perfectly normal. However, you should make sure that the cars have functioning lights. Their engine must also be in good condition.

Number of Enrolled Students

How many students will the instructor teach at any given time? The in-car class time is restricted by the number of seats in a specific car, but you don’t want to be in a crowded classroom with too many students.

Certifications

The Department of Motor Vehicles certified driver’s education schools in most states, but two other organizations provide best practices for schools to follow. The American Driver and Traffic Safety Education Association and the Driving School Association of the Americas are both well-known professional organizations that accredit schools.