Drivers Ed: Online vs. Classroom - The Pros and Cons

When it comes to Driver's Ed, there is not one basic set of requirements for new drivers. Each state is different, so it can be confusing on what requirements are needed for driver's education. On top of that, students can choose an online course or in-classroom instruction. So, which is better? We look into online vs. classroom instruction for Driver's Ed right here!

Classroom Instruction - An Explanation

For classroom instruction, this would require students to attend classes in-person. Each student would be required to attend a specific number of hours, which would depend on their state's requirements. Most classroom instruction also includes behind-the-wheel and in-car instruction as part of the curriculum, but those time requirements would be separate from the in-class instruction.

The classroom instruction must be approved by that state's DMV. Some school districts do offer classroom instruction for driver's education, but more and more schools are not offering these days. Most students are opting to attend a private driving school to complete driver's ed for their drivers license.

Online Course - An Explanation

For online driver's education, the students get to complete the course at their own pace on their own devices. The students will read through the material for the course on a website or app and then complete each course and all the activities/quizzes associated with that course.

As with classroom instruction, each state requires a certain number of hours required for these online courses. However, the hours can be split up into what works for your schedule, as long as the required number of hours are completed while taking the online course. Each online course also has to be approved by your state's DMV.

Pros and Cons of Classroom Instruction

If your school provides classroom instruction, this would allow you to have a one-on-one learning experience within the comfort of your own school and teachers. This also will allow you to ask questions and get more clarification that might not be available in an online course.

For classroom instruction, there is no flexibility in completing the required hours. Your classroom hours are set, so having to work that into your already busy schedule can be difficult. Some states don't allow you to miss any classes and if you do, then you must restart the entire course over. If your high school does not offer a driver's ed course, then some private driving schools can be expensive.

Pros and Cons of Online Drivers Ed

If you enroll in an online driver's ed course, you do not get that in-person interaction between you and the teacher. However, some students prefer for that to happen and learn better on their own, so having the course to go through at their own pace is better for them.

For an online course, it can allow for flexibility for those busy families with enough on their plate already. There is no set schedule and students can log into their account and work at their own pace. Plus, each online course has to be approved by state agencies also, so no need to worry about the course not being accepted at your DMV office. Before taking the course though, make sure it is approved and accepted by your state's DMV office, which our course is!

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our friendly support staff. If you want to start your driver's training journey with Coastline Academy, make sure to sign up for Drivers Ed and book your driving lesson today.