Driver's Education Program
Driver’s education is a structured program designed to teach new drivers the rules of the road, safe driving habits, and the skills needed to become responsible, licensed drivers in Massachusetts.
A standard driver’s education program includes 30 hours of classroom instruction, 12 hours of behind-the-wheel training, and 6 hours of observation while another student is driving. It also requires a parent/guardian class and additional supervised driving at home.
Driver’s education is more than just meeting state requirements. It’s about building lifelong safe driving habits, preparing for the road test, and giving both students and parents peace of mind.
30 hours of classroom instruction
The 30-hour classroom portion of driver’s education teaches students the rules of the road, Massachusetts driving laws, vehicle safety, and defensive driving techniques. Students learn how to make safe decisions behind the wheel, understand traffic signs and signals, and prepare for real-world driving scenarios—all before getting behind the wheel.
12 hours behind the wheel
The 12-hour behind-the-wheel program gives students hands-on driving experience with a licensed instructor. Students practice essential driving skills such as starting and stopping, turning, parking, lane changes, and navigating traffic safely under real-world conditions.
6 hours of observation
During the 6-hour observation period, students learn by watching another student drive under the guidance of a licensed instructor. This allows them to see proper driving techniques, anticipate traffic situations, and understand safe decision-making before taking the wheel themselves.
2 hour parent meeting
This mandatory meeting helps parents and guardians understand their role in supervising student drivers. Instructors review the program requirements, safe driving practices, and strategies for guiding teens during their at-home driving practice.
40 hours behind the wheel with parents
Students are required to complete 40 hours of supervised driving with a parent or guardian. This hands-on practice reinforces classroom lessons and behind-the-wheel instruction, helping teens gain real-world driving experience in a variety of traffic and road conditions while building confidence and safe driving habits.
