Drivers Education

What is Driving School/Driver’s Ed?

Delaware driver’s education classes are lessons in driving specifically for new drivers. If you’re under 18, you’ll take this driver’s education class in order to get your permit. During this Delaware driving class, you’ll learn about laws, alcohol and drugs, signals, road signs, vehicle operation, dealing with road rage, and more. The Delaware driving school instructor will ensure that you’re prepared to get your permit.

Delaware driver’s ed is not the same as defensive driving or traffic survival school. If you take a driving class after you have your license and received a citation, you can knock driving points from your record, lower your insurance rates, and even, in some cases, avoid tickets. However, teen driving classes aren’t voluntary, and they aren’t meant to improve your driving skill. Rather, they are mandatory for a permit and meant to give you a base of knowledge for driving. While you have your permit, you’ll work on improving those skills.

Who is Required to Complete It?

You can get your driving permit in Delaware when you’re 16 years old. If you’re under the age of 18, you must hold this permit for at least one year before you can apply for a driver’s license. Before you get your permit, however, you must prove that you have a Blue Certificate. A Blue Certificate is proof that you successfully completed a Delaware driver’s education course. If you are over the age of 18 when you apply for a permit, you do not have to complete Delaware driver’s education.

What Agency Regulates It?

The Delaware DMV regulates Delaware driving classes. Through the DMV, you can find state-approved driving school options, as well as learn about other requirements for your license. DMV locations (and Delaware driving school locations) are found throughout the state.

Who Teaches It?

Delaware driving school is taught only by certified instructors. Your Delaware driving school instructor might work at a private facility, but in many cases, high schools also offer courses either during the school day in lieu of health class or after school on the student’s own time. To go before a Delaware driving school instructor, you have to pass both written and practical tests, as well as attend training courses at least every two years. So, you can rest assured that the skills they are teaching you are accurate and will help prepare you for the road.

Instructor Requirements

Delaware driving school instructors must first apply to the state to become certified. You can take driving school classes from uncertified teachers, but you won’t get a Blue Certificate when you are done. Certification for instructors includes a written skills test, as well as an on-the-road test. In addition, a Delaware driving school instructor must have a clean driving record and no criminal history.