Not taking Driver's Ed?

Question

I took Driver's Ed, and one of my friends told me that they're not gonna take it. She asked me if there are any extra restictions that would be put on her by not taking it, but I had to tell her hat I'm not sure. Are there?

Answer 1

The rules depend on the state.

Typically, in order to get your driver's license before age 18 you need to have passed a state-approved driver's education test and have a minimum number of hours of behind-the-wheel training.  After age 18, typically the driver's education requirement is no longer required.

I'll note, though, that you can get a nice discount on your auto insurance by having taken an approved driver's education course within the last 3-5 years.  New drivers, and also drivers under age 25, are typically in the most expensive auto insurance pricing bands, so having the driver's ed insurance discount would be a big help.

I'm actually in my early 30s, been driving since age 17, no points or accidents, so my rate band is pretty good compared to when I was younger.  Even still, my NY auto insurance company offered me a 6hr classroom driver's ed refresher course for $22, which after completion would save me about $180/yr for 3 years on my auto insurance...  So I jumped on the offer - class starts tomorrow!  So, your friend, as a new driver (and especially if younger than 25 and/or male), should probably get at least as good of a ROI by taking the driver's ed course as I am getting by taking this refresher course.

Answer 2

People who take driver's ed, get their junior license turn into full license at 18.  You get it ar 17.

Good Luck...