Driver education - American Education

Instruction in the techniques of driving automobiles and the study of traffic rules, regulations and safety. Although available at private, for-profit driver education “schools,” most driver education is offered free of charge as an optional course in secondary school for youngsters who have reached the legal driving age in their communities. High school driver education consists of two parts: classroom instruction, often involving simulated driving machines, and on-the-road practice driving in a car. In addition to the schools themselves, insurance organizations, safety councils, car dealer associations and state agencies concerned with traffic safety often contribute to the funding of driver education in secondary schools. As an incentive to take driver education, many insurance companies offer reduced premiums to drivers who successfully complete such training.