Choosing a Driving School - Driver Education

As a new driver, choosing professional driving instruction may be the best way to put yourself safely in the driver's seat.

A driver training course or high school driver education program approved by the provincial government can teach you the skills and attitudes you need to be a safe and responsible driver. You may also be eligible to take your road test sooner and to save money on insurance premiums.

As well as teaching the basics, driver training emphasizes strategic driving techniques, risk perception and management, freeway driving, night driving and driving in adverse conditions. Most programs are designed for new drivers, but many schools also provide courses and services to upgrade your skills.

If you graduate from an approved program, the certificate you get will reduce the time you must spend at Level One by four months. It may also earn you savings on your car insurance.

Approved high school driver education programs offer in-class and in-car training after school for a fee. Courses are administered by the local school board, a principal or other high school authority. They are taught in high school classrooms by qualified instructors.

Approved driver training courses in Ontario must offer at least 25 hours of classroom training and 10 hours of behind-the-wheel training. Look for a program that offers high quality instruction and a comfortable learning environment. The school should also be equipped with up-to-date videotapes, overheads and other visual aids.

To help you choose the best driving school and course for you, use this checklist of features.

Course information package
Personalized program
Classroom facilities
Low student/teacher ratio
Audio visual equipment
In-vehicle topics covered
Basic manoeuvres
Strategic driving
Risk perception and management
Freeway driving
Night driving
Driving in adverse conditions
Instructor qualifications and experience
Regular instructor upgrading
Student progress and evaluation reports
Certificate of completion
Minimum 25 classroom and 10 behind-the-wheel instruction hours
Training materials
Use of vehicle for road test
Certification fee
Registered educational institution
Tuition receipts
Testimonials
Number of years in business
Consumer protection insurance

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