Drivers Ed vs. Behind-The-Wheel: Find Out The Differences

When going through the driver license process, it can get a little confusing when it comes to some of the terms that pop up. Some states require new drivers to take a drivers education course. Other states require behind-the-wheel training to happen. And some states have no requirements at all! So, what is the difference between Driver's Ed and behind-the-wheel? We take that on in drivers ed vs. behind-the-wheel below!

What Is Drivers Ed?

During the drivers education course, students learn different techniques for driving a vehicle, as well as traffic regulations and laws, basic vehicle maintenance and safety precautions. This is a time for students to get fully prepared before heading to the DMV office to apply for their learners permit. Drivers education can be completed in a classroom setting or online. Both are for a set number of hours, which is based on your state requirements.

What Is Behind-The-Wheel?

For behind-the-wheel, this is more of the driving lessons and taking the knowledge you learned in Driver's Ed and applying it to actual road conditions. Once you have passed your Drivers Ed course, it is time to start behind-the-wheel training, which can be done with a professional instructor or your parent/guardian. This can be a nerve-wracking time, so just remember this is a new activity you are learning and practice makes perfect. Start slow and work your way up to more challenging scenarios behind the wheel.

With your learners permit, you will be allowed to learn how to drive with an adult licensed driver. Each state has different rules and regulations of who that adult licensed driver can be, so make sure to check your state guidelines.

Drivers Ed vs. Behind-The-Wheel

To sum it up, they are both part of your driver's training journey. The driver's ed portion is the bookwork, so learning the law and rules of the road. The behind-the-wheel portion is taking that knowledge and using it to actually drive a vehicle!

As always, if you have any questions, please reach out to our friendly support staff and make sure to sign up for Drivers Ed or book your driving lesson today.