Cheap driving lessons through online drivers education doesn’t necessarily mean ineffective or unsafe driving lessons. Driving is the most dangerous activity that we, or our kids, perform all day long. So naturally, people seek out the best and safest driver training programs. But at the same time, most of us are on a budget and simply can’t afford the thousand dollar drivers ed course downtown. So what’s the answer? Do we keep our kids from driving? Or do we risk sending them through a poor-quality driving school and hope for the best? Luckily these days, cheap doesn’t mean unsafe.
Minimize drivers ed costs while maintaining safety
If you’re on a budget, this is one area where you are actually able to skimp. Why? Because in this rare case, cheap driving lessons can actually be the safest option! There is no need to spend thousands of dollars on a course that you or your child will simply fall asleep or daydream in.
Using internet-based educational programs instead of standard classroom training is an excellent alternative and is easily the cheapest way to learn all of the “bookwork” behind driver training. Not only are online driving schools cheaper, but they are also more effective.
Do Online Drivers Ed Courses Make Sense?
As a long-haul truck driver (check out my trucking blog!), I’d actually prefer if more parents enrolled their teen drivers into online drivers education programs.
I’ve personally gone through both classroom training as well as online driver training and hands down, I learned best with the cheap driving lessons offered online.
Don’t get me wrong, the classroom setting certainly has its advantages, but I feel there are more advantages to online driver’s ed programs.
What are the Advantages?
Interaction! It’s hard to daydream and quit paying attention because the cheap driving lessons offered online require that you participate. You need to click into new pages, complete mini-quizzes, participate in little games and answer questions. It can get pretty intense! In fact, I recommend that all parents sign their kids up for these internet-based driver training classes even if their teen has already completed a classroom-based course.
These online driving training schools are truly unique in their ability to get teens (and adults!) to pay attention, learn, and retain information. The odds of passing the permit test alone increases dramatically by taking an online course vs. a classroom course (most teens fail their permit test on the first try).
Another benefit online classes can provide lies in the simple fact that it’s available 100% online. Your teens can take them wherever they are, whenever they are ready. Its convenience somehow gives your teens a sense of independence, too. Because it shows that you can trust them to finish the course even without a supervising adult.
What’s more? Most online driver’s education offers insurance discounts and various freebies and special features that can make learning enjoyable for them.
They will even be given a lot of course options. If they want a straightforward course, they can choose one that relies more on text. If they are more comfortable learning while having fun, they can choose courses that utilize jokes and humor in teaching basic driving concepts, such as MyImprov.
What are the disadvantages?
Obviously, the main disadvantage is that the driver’s ed student can’t ask instructors specific questions. That means you, as a parent, must take this role.
Many parents don’t feel confident enough to provide answers to tough teen driving questions. If you’re one of them, you might want to consider a classroom-based driving course instead.
But keep in mind, you’ve been driving for many years now. And chances are, aside from a hiccup or two (we all screw up from time to time), you’ve driven thousands of safe miles (maybe even hundreds of thousands) in all different weather conditions in all different kinds of traffic.
So is a “professional” instructor really needed for the classroom portion of drivers ed? There’s a good chance that you’ll be able to answer just about any question your teen throws at you.
If you can’t answer a question, look it up! Most Department of Motor Vehicles facilities has free “Rules of the Road” books which every driver should have anyway. You also have the power of the internet at your fingertips.
Don’t be afraid to say “I don’t know.” Instead, say “that’s a great question, let’s look it up” then find the answer together. You should never stop learning how to drive and your teenage driver should be taught that.
What classroom and online drivers ed programs are all about
The bookwork and classroom portion of a driver’s education program is not set up to teach a teen how to drive. It is only there to teach them the basics such as driving laws, road signs, and basic right of way regulations. As long as they pass the driving theory test or driving permit test, that’s all that really matters. The real learning comes from behind-the-wheel training. Speaking of which…
Finding Low Cost ‘behind the Wheel’ Drivers Training
Whether you sign up for online practice driving theory tests or sign up for a full-blown and state-approved online drivers ed program, your teenage driver will still need behind-the-wheel training. Some states, such as Texas, will allow a parent/guardian to act as the driving instructor. But other states will still require a certain number of hours of behind-the-wheel (BTW) lessons from a certified driving instructor. Check out this page, then select your state for details. Most online courses will help you find quality driving instructors, or simply choose a local driving school and give them a call. Most drivers ed schools will provide behind-the-wheel training even if you don’t enroll in the full driving course. This will cut your costs dramatically!
How to choose an online drivers ed school
Cheap driving lessons are offered all over the web these days. Some of them are excellent and some aren’t all that great. Searching in Google for “cheap driving lessons” or “online drivers education courses” will yield many results, but who do you choose?
First thing first, you need to make sure that your state allows you to complete the classroom portion of drivers training online. This online driver’s ed program will let you know if you or your teen is eligible. I also like this online driver’s education school. Even if you aren’t eligible, it may be wise to sign your teen up for test question help or some sort of supplemental training. Getting a teen drivers license isn’t as easy as it used to be. About 92% of teens fail their permit test on the first try, so they can use all the help they could get these days!
The best online drivers ed programs available
If I were signing my teen up for cheap driving lessons online or an online drivers ed course, I’d probably only choose the iDriveSafely course. They were the first ones to start online driver training more than 10 years ago and over 2-million people have used them. To seal any doubts, they have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
Another option you have is MyImprov, which, as mentioned earlier, uses humor to introduce driving concepts to teens. They call it the “edutainment” style of teaching, combining both science and humor in their approach. They have skits and jokes scattered throughout the lessons, so your teen will enjoy completing the course. They also offer affordable courses, if you consider the quality of education they provide.
Aceable is another school that’s been making a name in the past few years when it comes to providing online driver’s education. It’s a pity their course is only available in a few states in the US (this includes California, Texas, Florida – their top states – as well as in Georgia, Illinois, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania). Their courses are the most interactive and most modern courses available, perhaps because they’ve been around pretty recently.
In any case, there are a ton of options out there for you. Just be sure they offer graphics and animations to go along with the training. Signing up for a “text-only” course will do little good (boring!). And also be certain they are state-approved as well. As long as those two things are met, you really can’t go wrong and you’ll save a truckload of cash in the long run while maintaining a great learning environment. Cheap driving lessons are easy to come by these days!
Who Should NOT Take A Cheap Online Drivers Ed Course
In order to successfully pass an online driver’s ed course, you need to be self-motivated. There are no set times you have to show up to class, so it’s all on you. Also, you need to be able to learn well independently. You will not get a personalized instructor or tutor to help you. On the other hand, you will be able to rewind the course and go over any sections you are having issues with. Whether you decide to take an online driver’s ed course or a classroom-based course, it all mostly boils down to personal choice.
Cheap Behind The Wheel Training
We actually don’t recommend you take cheap driving lessons for behind-the-wheel training. While a cheap driving school isn’t necessarily bad, make sure the instructors are qualified and also take a look at their training vehicles. Good habits are formed early and bad habits tend to stay with you forever. So, it’s important to find a great instructor with lots of experience and a vehicle that provides for a positive learning environment. Behind the wheel training is no place to cheap out!
From Cheap Driving Lessons to Teenage Driving
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FAQs
How much are driving lessons in Georgia? ›
| Behind The Wheel | Tuition |
|---|---|
| 6 Hrs + 6hrs Defensive Driving (For insurance Reduction Only) | $405 |
| 8 Hrs + 6hrs Defensive Driving (For insurance Reduction Only) | $525 |
| 10 Hrs + 6hrs Defensive Driving (For insurance Reduction Only) | $645 |
Course price only $49.99 , $34.95!
How much does it cost for drivers training in Michigan? ›Time to complete this education training ranges from 1 hour to 4 months depending on the qualification, with a median time to complete of 2 weeks. The cost to attend Michigan Driving School ranges from $75 to $400 depending on the qualification, with a median cost of $300.
How much is the 6 hour driving class in NJ? ›Six Hour Behind the Wheel Program : $360.00
Transportation for eye exam and written test. Additional Help studying for written exam if needed. 6 Hours behind the wheel training. One on one instruction with a qualified professional NJ licensed instructor.
Georgia's driver education program is comprised of two components—a theoretical component and a practical component. The theoretical component consists of a minimum of 30 hours of instruction, which teens can acquire either in a classroom environment or via the web through any of the DDS-approved online courses.
How many lessons do I need for driving? ›That said, most sources agree that 35-50 hours of driving lessons is better. The average amount of driving lessons should be 40-45 hours before taking your driving test. Some people decide that 20-30 hours or maybe even less is enough – but remember that the more lessons you take, the better you will become at driving.
Can you go straight for your license at 18 in Maine? ›How Do You Obtain A Driver's License? Be at least 16 years of age and have completed an approved driver education course. Be at least 18 years of age if you have not completed an approved driver education course.
How much does it cost to get your license in Maine? ›| Examination Fees | |
|---|---|
| Class C and Motorcycle Permit Examination (Written Test) | $35.00 |
| Initial License and Renewal Fees | |
| Class C - Under Age 65 - 6 year license | $30.00 |
| REAL ID Class C - Under Age 65 - 6 year license | $55.00 |
...
What to expect on the actual ME DMV exam.
| How many questions | 30 |
|---|---|
| How many correct answers to pass | 24 |
| Passing score | 80% |
The cost to attend Same Day Road Test ranges from $40 to $250 depending on the qualification, with a median cost of $75.
Can you drive alone at 15 in Michigan? ›
The Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) consists of three licensing levels: Level 1 License - a supervised learner's license issued to teen drivers at least 14 years 9 months old. Level 2 License - an intermediate license that limits passengers and the unsupervised nighttime driving for teen drivers at least 16 years old.
How long is the Michigan driving test? ›Road Test. Driving skills tests are administered by independent third-party testing organizations approved by the Secretary of State. Contact them directly to schedule your road test. The test may take 45- 75 minutes and always consists of 3 parts: vehicle inspection, basic control skills and on-street driving test.
How many hours do you need to practice driving in NJ? ›Complete 6 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction in a dual-controlled vehicle with a licensed driving instructor. The driving school, student, or parent/guardian must complete the student permit at a motor vehicle agency that offers driver testing. Once completed, the MVC agency will validate for practice driving.
Can you drive alone at 16 in NJ? ›You must be accompanied in the front seat by an adult supervising driver who is at least 21 years of age, and who possesses a valid New Jersey driver's license, and has a minimum of three years driving experience.
When driving at night on a dimly lit street what should you do? ›When driving at night on a dimly lit street, try to drive slowly enough that your headlights illuminate the road in front of you. If the only lights are coming from the front of your car, driving too quickly can reduce the amount of time that you'll have to react to an obstruction in your path.
Is 2 hours too long for a driving lesson? ›Generally speaking, most people learning to drive opt for the 2-hour driving lessons, as it can provide them with more opportunities to practice their skills. Other benefits of a 2-hour driving lesson include: Needing fewer lessons a week, which works well for people with busier schedules.
Why are driving lessons 2 hours? ›Two-Hour Driving Lessons
With two hours, there is usually enough time to go over multiple topics such as starting and stopping smoothly, merging onto busy roads, and understanding when it is safe to pass another car on the road.
Each driving lesson is 2 hours long, and you can pay for as many lessons as you like.
What are the basics of driving? ›- Before getting in visually inspect the car.
- Adjust the driver's seat for a safe driving position and good view.
- Check to make sure you can reach each pedal.
- Put on your seatbelt.
- Adjust all the mirrors.
- Set the AC controls for comfort.
- Make sure you can clearly read the gauges on the dash.
Between 9am and 11am is generally a decent time to take a driving test because it's outside of rush hour and avoids the traffic increase in the run-up to lunchtime.
Do you have to parallel park in a driving test in Maine? ›
VO: There are two reverse maneuvers during the exam: Straight-line backing and offset backing -- otherwise known as parallel parking. During these maneuvers, the examiner will be checking your ability to control your vehicle while backing up. EXAMINER: Whenever you're ready, go ahead and back straight up.
How can you count following distance? ›Determining the three-second gap is relatively easy. When following a vehicle, pick an overhead road sign, a tree or other roadside marker. Note when the vehicle ahead passes that marker, then see how many seconds it takes (count 1-1,000; 2-1,000; 3-1,000) for you to pass the same spot.
How long do you have to wait after your permit to get your license if you are over 18 in SC? ›If you have no driving experience, you must hold the beginner's permit for 180 days, regardless of your age, before taking a skills test on the road. Before you take the beginner's permit test, prepare now!
Can I get a Maine license online? ›The Bureau of Motor Vehicles offers an online service to renew your driver's license or Maine ID card or purchase a replacement driver's license or ID card at any time, day or night. The online process is easy and payment by credit card is quick and secure.
How much do you have to pay to take your drivers test in Maine? ›$35 fee. Two forms of identification (See required identification documents ) Proof of residency. Driver education completion certificate (applicants who are under 18 years old ONLY)
How many hours do you have to drive to get your license in Maine? ›You are required to complete 70 hours of practice driving, which must include 10 hours of night driving, and have held your learner's permit for at least six months. The 70 hours of practice driving must begin after you have been issued a learner's permit.
How many mistakes are allowed on driving test Maine? ›You will need to give the completed form to the driver's license examiner at the time of your driver's examination. The knowledge test consists of 30 questions and you must answer a minimum of 24 correctly to pass the test.
Is the Maine drivers test hard? ›How to Pass Your Maine Road Test: A Complete Guide. Passing your Maine road test is a vital step on the way to obtaining your license. If you're not prepared, this exam can be extremely difficult – and if you fail, it can delay your progress by multiple weeks (or even months).
How long does a road test take in Maine? ›The examiner will ask you to show working lights, turns signals, hand signals and horn. Then it's time for the driving portion, which is about 15 minutes. Each testing location is a bit different so again, we recommend getting familiar with the road test area before taking the test.
How many lesson do you need before you take the Michigan driving test? ›You can schedule your road test when you have your segment 2 certificate, have driven on your Level One License for 6 months or longer, and have completed 50 hours of supervised driving including 10 hours at night.
Can you drive straight after passing your test Michigan? ›
After you pass the knowledge test, you will qualify for a Temporary Instruction Permit (TIP). A TIP lets you practice driving for up to 180 days with a licensed adult who is 21 years old or older.
Do they test parallel parking in Michigan? ›Yes. In the state of Michigan you are required to parallel park for the purposes of your driver's test. Depending on where you are in the state, you will be required to parallel park on the road or in the parking lot with cones.
At what age can a child be left alone in a car in Michigan? ›At what age can you leave kids in the car in Michigan? Six (6) years old. The law states that no child younger than six can be left in a vehicle unattended.
How many passengers can a 16 year old have in Michigan? ›Drivers are prohibited from operating a vehicle at any time with more than one passenger under 21 years old unless the passenger(s) is an immediate family member, it is to, from or in the course of employment, while doing an authorized activity or accompanied by a designated supervising driver.
Do 17 year olds have a driving curfew in Michigan? ›Teen drivers with a Level 2 graduated license can't drive between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. There are some exceptions to this curfew, though.
What are instant fails on driving test Michigan? ›Fails to yield right-of-way to a funeral procession. Passes a stopped school bus with its red lights flashing. Fails to take proper action when encountering a stationary or moving emergency vehicle; or a stationary road service vehicle. Turns left or right on red traffic light when prohibited by law.
What is a passing score for Michigan driving test? ›| How many questions | 80 |
|---|---|
| How many correct answers to pass | 56 |
| Passing score | 70% |
| Minimum age to apply for Level 1 License | 14 ¾ |
Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) programs allow young drivers to safely gain driving experience before obtaining full driving privileges.
How late can a 17 year old drive in NJ? ›GDL Rules. Once you have your GDL license: You may not drive between 11:01pm and 5:00am. You may not have more than one passenger (besides your dependents) unless you are accompanied by a parent or guardian)
Can I get my license without taking the road test in NJ? ›Anyone who applies for a state driver's license, including someone here on an immigrant visa, must pass a vision test, a knowledge test and possibly a road test. MVC regulations require road tests, but they may be waived if the applicant has a valid license from another country or state.
What 3 tests must you pass to get a NJ license? ›
To apply for your first driver license in New Jersey, you must gather documentation and pass a vision, knowledge and road test. This is your complete plan of action depending on your age.
Is driving school mandatory in NJ? ›To get a New Jersey driver's license, your teen must first take a high school driving course or enroll in a licensed driving school.
Where do you look when driving at night? ›Look to the bottom right of the road to avoid approaching headlights. (Some headlights are blindingly bright.) Also, use the night setting on your rearview mirror to deflect the glare from vehicles behind you. Reduce your driving speed to give yourself longer to react if something happens on the road in front of you.
What are the three most important times to check traffic behind you? ›3. Three of the most important times to check traffic behind you are before: Backing, making a sharp turn, or crossing an intersection Backing, changing lanes, or slowing down quickly.....
What if you find yourself in a skid? ›Most skids occur when conditions are slippery. If you find yourself in a skid, take your feet off the pedals. Stop braking and stop accelerating. Then, quickly turn the steering wheel in the direction you want to go.
How much does a defensive driving course cost in Georgia? ›For license reinstatement, points reduction, or court purposes, clinics must charge $95. For Driver Improvement classes taken for any other reason, clinics may charge a fee up to $95.
Does Georgia have driving school for tickets? ›Unfortunately, Georgia does not offer traffic school as an option for keeping the ticket off your driving record. For speeding tickets, the judge may offer to reduce your speed to keep it under the requirement for reporting to insurance companies. The catch is you'll usually have to accept a guilty plea.
How much is driving lessons in Alabama? ›While rates will vary depending on where you take driving lessons, you can reasonably expect to pay between $40 and $60 an hour.
How much are driving lessons in NJ? ›6 HOUR or 10 HOUR PACKAGE - $400/$580 (includes permit fee, written and vision test) - Insurance certificate (which will qualify for a discount with your insurance company).
How many points does a defensive driving course take off in GA? ›Benefits of Defensive Driving Course GA
"If you have points on your license, going to a defensive driving course can erase seven points from your license," says Kirk Brisette, Ph. D., CEO and co-founder of DriveSmart Georgia. "This can only happen once every five years.
Can you take defensive driving course for speeding ticket in Georgia? ›
Drivers in Georgia who have been charged with a traffic offense may be ordered by the court to complete a defensive driving course as part of their sentence.
How do I remove points from my license in GA? ›How do I reduce points on my Georgia driver's license? Up to 7 points can be reduced once every 5 years. In accordance with rule O.C.G.A §40-5-86. To qualify for a Points Reduction, you must successfully complete a certified Driver Improvement (defensive driving) course.
How much is a ticket for driving without license in GA? ›The penalty for driving without a license in Georgia begins with a misdemeanor charge, with the potential of up to 12 months in jail or a fine of $500 to 1,000.
Do you have to take a driving test to get your license in GA? ›Requirements: (Drivers 18 and Over)
You must sign an affidavit affirming that you have completed 40 hours of supervised road driving which includes 6 hours of night driving. You must take and successfully pass the driver's license knowledge test.
If a driver is convicted of driving without a valid license in Georgia, they may face the following consequences: A minimum of 2 days in jail. A fine of at least $500 (plus surcharges) A 6-month license suspension.
How much is the Alabama driving test? ›When you pass the road test, you are required to pay the fee of $36.25 (no checks).
How much is the road test fee in Alabama? ›Driver or Learner License (age 16 and older)
$5 test fee (no checks). Applicants 18 or older who wish to complete all testing for a license must have a licensed driver, proof of car insurance and a vehicle that will pass inspection. $36.25 to purchase license (no checks).
Alabama 4-Hour Traffic School.
Do you need 6 hours of driving to get your permit NJ? ›Complete 6 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction in a dual-controlled vehicle with a licensed driving instructor. The driving school, student, or parent/guardian must complete the student permit at a motor vehicle agency that offers driver testing.
How much is a first time drivers license in NJ? ›At the agency: Bring your signed application form, 6 points of ID, and $10 fee (credit/debit card, cash, check, or money order) to the licensing center.