When it comes to texting while driving, currently 48 of the 50 states in this country ban text messaging for all drivers. While Texas passed laws in 2017 that made it illegal to text while driving anywhere in the state, there are some cities that also ban all cellphone use while driving.

Whether you are learning to drive in Texas or a seasoned driver, it's always a good idea to have a refresher course on what the current laws are. When it comes to Texas, here are some cellphone laws to remember, per the Texas Department of Transportation:

You cannot send or receive electronic messages while driving in Texas.

Drivers with learner's permits are prohibited from using cellphones in the first six months of driving.

Using any handheld device in your vehicle in a school zone is illegal.

Drivers under the age of 18 are prohibited from using handheld devices.

School bus drivers may not use cellphones at all while driving if children are present.

Cellphone laws can change from city to city.

One of the keys to helping eradicate car crashes is to stay informed of the laws. By knowing these laws, it can keep yourself and everyone around you safe. The Texas DOT says to:

Pull off the road entirely and come to a complete stop before you talk or text.

The mission of Coastline Academy is to help put an end to car crashes. With more laws and emphasis put on distracted driving, we can all take steps to seeing that happen. As always, if you have any questions that Coastline can help you with, please reach out to our friendly support staff.

More and more states are putting a ban on cell phone use while driving, so we take a look at the distracted driving laws in Texas.

We take a look at the distracted driving laws in Texas, including cell phone laws.

Distracted Driving In Texas: A Look Into Texas Cell Phone Laws

When sitting down to explore driver education course options for you or your teen in Austin, some of the search terms you may end up typing into Google or Bing may be “online drivers ed austin” or "texas drivers ed online." After all, if you can order groceries, pay your taxes, and watch a movie online, why can’t you take your driver’s ed course online, as well?

All potential Texas driver's license holders aged 18 and under in Austin are required to 32 hours of theoretical driver’s education, plus 14 hours of driving lessons with a certified driving instructor. While your behind-the-wheel hours cannot be completed online (we’re not there quite yet with technology), the mandated 32 hours of driving theory may be completed via either an approved, online course or in a traditional in-person, classroom setting. Note that for students participating in parent taught driver education, both the online and in-person versions of driver's education are available.

With online learning being such a popular option, is there any reason to explore alternatives to an online driver’s education course? While we know online classes can be convenient, there are upsides and downsides to both online and in-person versions of driver’s ed in Austin. We’ll break down the pros and cons below.

Online driver’s education covers the same topics as a classroom driver’s education course, meaning students will learn about the laws and rules of the road in Texas, safe driving practices, and how to handle dangerous driving situations. All online driver’s education courses must be approved by the Texas Department of Licensing and Registration, meaning the material you study in your online course will help to prepare you for your Texas written exam.

Online driver’s education in Austin is limited to two hours per day. as per Texas State law. At Coastline, your course will time out once you have reached the two-hour limit and you will be able to continue the next day. In addition to reading and video materials, online driver’s education includes period unit checks to ensure you are retaining the information you have been presented with and a final knowledge check, which will determine your overall driver’s education grade.

You are able to take online driver’s education on your phone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer!

There are a number of benefits that come from online driver’s education:

Complete your driver’s ed on your own time!

We know teens have busy schedules that are not always conducive to evening driver’s ed classes. Online coursework gives students the flexibility to learn when they want to, even if your teen is a night owl!

No one wants to fight Austin traffic to get to driver’s ed class, especially as you, the parent, will likely be responsible for transporting your teen to and from the classroom site. Online driver’s education allows students to complete their coursework form wherever they want, whether that’s in the comfort of their own room, at a local coffee shop, or even while they’re waiting to be picked up at school!

Can review the material as much as needed

Once a module in the online course is completed, students have the option of returning to the material in order to review for any in-course knowledge checks or when studying for their Texas Written Exam. An online course eliminates the need to go back through tedious worksheets or illegible notes, meaning teens will be able to be prepared and confident when it’s time for their Knowledge Test.

Nothing’s perfect! When deciding between online and in-person driver’s education classes, keep this following in mind:

One of the drawbacks to online education is the lack of social interaction. Some days, you might just want to ask a ffffclassmate if they’ve had the same experience trying in a driving lesson, or even solicit advice in dealing with paperwork or testing requirements. In-person classes are also a great way to make new friends! While online driver’s ed is convenient, don’t forget about the human element.

Getting to complete your driver’s education courses online means you choose the time you access your course. Convenient, right? The flip side to this is that in order to finish your coursework in a timely manner, you need to be organized and keep yourself on schedule. Falling into procrastination is a risk with online courses - make sure you set up a calendar and keep to it!

The law and rules of driving in Austin can be confusing! You may have questions you want to ask of a teacher, but with online coursework, finding someone to pick their brain isn’t as easy. The good news is that even if you do take your driver’s education online, you’ll have to jump in the car with a real, certified driving instructor for the practical portion of your driver’s ed. If you do have questions, make sure to ask your Coastline driving instructor!

In-person Driver's Ed at a Driving School

Just like online driver’s education, an in-person driver’s education course in Austin will cover the laws and rules of the road in Texas, safe driving practices, and how to handle dangerous driving situations. All in-person, online driver’s education courses must be approved by the Texas Department of Licensing and Registration, meaning the material you study in your online course will help to prepare you for your Texas written exam.

In-person driver’s education in Austin is limited to two hours per day, as per Texas State law. Most Coastline in-person classes meet four days a week, for a four-week period, although that schedule may be subject to change. Students will learn via books and assigned reading, presentations, videos, and interactive in-class activities such as discussions. Periodic knowledge checks will be assigned to ensure you are retaining the information you have been presented with in addition to a final knowledge check, which will determine your overall driver’s education grade.

In-person driver’s education is offered at a variety of locations!

In-person learning is a social environment! In the driving school classroom, you’ll be able to meet other driving students your age, compare notes and stories, and maybe even make a friend or two along the way.

A classroom setting may mean a strict schedule but on the plus side, you’ll be able to know exactly when you will finish your driver’s education course so you can plan your next steps to getting your license. 

Government websites like that of the Texas Driver License Office can be confusing to navigate and sometimes the internet will give more than one answer to a question. Certified, expert instructors who lead driver’s education classes are not only there to teach, but also answer any concerns or questions you might have about the licensing process or road law.

Yes, in-person driver’s education does mean a commute. We know Austin traffic can be frustrating at the best of times - make sure you plan ahead and leave yourself plenty of time to get to your driver’s education class site!

Unlike online learning, in-person driver’s ed requires you to show up to a driving school at the designated days and times. If you have too many absences or are late to class too many times, you may have to start the class over! When scheduling in-person driver’s ed, ensure you won’t have any conflicts that might require you to miss class.

We know in-person tests (like your road test) can be a nerve-wracking experience! This goes the same for classroom driver’s ed, where your required knowledge checks and final exam may feel a little scarier because they are at a desk and in person, as opposed to in the comfort of your home. Don’t worry, though! As long as you put in the proper study time and show up to class alert and prepared, any in-class tests should not prove to be insurmountable.

Coastline knows that anything from your schedule to your preferred learning style will inform and influence your decision when it comes to choosing the format of your driver’s education. In truth, there is no “better” option between online and in-person driver’s ed in Austin, which is why Coastline offers high-quality courses to our Austin students in both formats! No matter your choice of online or in-person, Coastline’s driver’s education program will prepare you both for your Texas Driving Knowledge Test and to be a safe and confident driver for life! 

Let us help you choose the driver's education course right for you!

Online vs. In-Person Driver's Ed in Austin: Which Is Right for You?

Driver’s hand signals are a commonly overlooked ingredient in the recipe for becoming a safer driver. While you might not need to use them often, understanding how to use hand signals while driving can help you out in several tricky situations behind the wheel.

Whether you’re learning to drive or are an experienced motorist, knowing how to use the appropriate hand signal when driving is essential. The guide below will explain everything you need to know about how to perform these hand signals while behind the wheel.

Why Are Hand Signals For Driving Important?

Before learning the different hand signals for driving, it’s important to understand when and why you might need them. 

When driving in the State of California, Vehicle Code 22108 requires all drivers to signal at least 100 feet prior to making a turn or changing lanes. As well as satisfying your legal obligations, turn signals allow you to communicate with other drivers; they let other road users know what move you are about to make, which allows them to act accordingly. 

Under most circumstances, this communication is achieved by using the vehicle’s turn signals. However, driving hand signals offer an alternative to turn signals that may be used in several situations, including:

If the vehicle’s turn lights or brake lights have stopped working.

Harsh sunlight makes it difficult to see turn or brake lights.

You have a trailer that’s obstructing the turn or brake lights.

Cyclists or other road users who do not have turn or brake lights on their vehicles should always use hand signals for turning and/or indicating a stop. Having this knowledge alongside the proper safety equipment and a suitable vehicle will help you stay safe on the road. Not only will understanding hand signals allow you to communicate with other road users, but it will also help you to “read” signals from other drivers. 

Understanding The 3 Main Driving Hand Signals for the Driving Test

Automobile hand signals are always made from the driver’s side by sticking your left arm out of the window. There are three main hand signals for driving, which are detailed below:

A left turn hand sign when driving is used to tell other drivers that you are moving into the left lane or planning to take a left turn at the next junction. When making a left hand turn, you should be positioned in the lane furthest to the left or a lane that has a left turn arrow. Do not change lanes during the turn maneuver.

To indicate a left hand turn with a hand signal, hold your left arm straight out of the window so that your arm is a horizontal line pointing left. Don’t forget to check for vehicles to your left.

A right turn hand sign when driving is used to inform other drivers that you are turning right or moving to the next lane to the right. When performing a right-hand turn, you should be in the slip lane or right-hand lane that is closest to the curb.

This hand signal is performed by sticking your left arm out of the window and bending it at the elbow, forming a 90-degree angle pointing towards the sky.

Slowing down and stopping hand signals can be used when your brake lights are not working as expected. 

This hand signal is performed by sticking your left arm out of the driver’s window and then pointing it towards the ground, bending your arm at the elbow as close to 90 degrees as you can. Your palm should be facing behind you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Driving Hand Signals

Driving hand signals for the driving test: How many are required?

Generally speaking, only the hand signals required on the permit or driving test are those that indicate a left-hand turn, right-hand turn, and stopping/slowing. Some states, like California, require the driver to demonstrate these hand signals as a part of the behind-the-wheel exam. While your state may only require you to correctly identify hand signals on a written test, be aware that the content of any driving exam may be subject to change at any time. This may include a demonstration of the hand signals. If you are required to demonstrate your hand signals, be certain to position your arm so that your signals are clear and well-defined to the examiner. Some examiners may deduct points for lazy arm signals where the shape of the signal is unclear. 

Are there situations where I should use hand signals if my blinkers still work?

Yes! Harsh sunlight may make it difficult for other drivers to see turn or brake lights, especially if those lights are worn down or if the bulb is weak. In addition, if you have a trailer, bicycle, or other item attached to the back of your vehicle, your turn and brake lights will be obstructed. In these cases, you must use hand signals to communicate your intentions to other road users.

What are the basic hand signals for driving?

The main three hand signals you need to know are the ones for a left turn, right turn and stopping/slowing. Note that the signal for stopping and slowing is the same - the left arm should be extended out the driver’s side window and bent downward at the elbow to create a 90-degree angle. 

Are hand signals for vehicles the same as for cyclists?

In general, they are the same! The signals to turn right, turn left and stop/slow should all be performed with the left arm, whether you are on a bicycle or behind the wheel of a car. Note that some cyclists may choose to indicate a right-hand turn by extending their right arm straight out to the side. In some states, this alternate right-turn hand signal is illegal. To ensure the safety and clear communication between vehicles and cyclists, it is best for cyclists to use the standard right-turn arm signal by using their left arm to create a 90-degree angle at the elbow with the hand pointed upward.

Can I use a driving hand signal at any time?

You can use a driving hand signal whenever you intend on making a lateral maneuver or to indicate stopping or slowing. Just like your blinkers, hand signals should not be used unless you plan on making a lane change or stopping/slowing your vehicle. Remember that you should not signal a turn or stop at the last minute. Be certain to leave plenty of time between your signal and your maneuver to reduce your risk of a collision. This is especially important when using hand signals, as other drivers may take longer to recognize your intentions and therefore be slower to respond.

Can I use hand signals with an imported car with the driver on the right side?

Yes, when driving an imported car where the steering is situated on the right-hand side of the vehicle, you should perform your arms signals from the right. Keep in mind that any driver behind you might not have the same visibility to the right side of your car as would on the left. It’s also important to note that most drivers will not be accustomed to vehicles where the driver is situated on the right, so you must be extra careful and leave extra time to signal your intentions if using hand signals from the right side. Remember that the key here is communication - you must broadcast your intentions to other road users in a way that is easy to recognize and allows other drivers time to react to your message.

The Final Word On Using Hand Signals For Driving 

If you do find yourself in a situation where you have to use hand signals for driving, it’s vital that you use them in conjunction with safe diving practices. Slow down and give other drivers enough warning about your upcoming turn or change of lanes before making a lateral maneuver.

To discover more on how to become a better driver, contact Coastline Academy today.

This article covers everything you need to know about Hand Signals For Driving. Why Are Hand Signals For Driving Important? How to signal a right turn, left turn, or a stop.

While you make your way through the drivers license process, you may have many questions that are stumping you. It can be a confusing time, but Coastline Academy is here to help. If you are wondering what the Drivers Ed near me cost is or if Drivers Ed with road test is a possibility, then we have your answers here!

Young drivers are taught the techniques of driving a vehicle, as well as basic vehicle maintenance, safety precautions, traffic regulations and laws during drivers education. Drivers Ed is a great way for new drivers to learn the rules of the road before getting behind the wheel themselves.

As of today, 32 states require teens to take drivers ed before they are allowed to sit for the written and driving exam to get their drivers license. Some states have that requirement for teens age 14-18 only.

Each state is different, as some states that don't require a drivers ed program do require teens to gain driving experience before taking their exam. It all varies by state, so make sure to verify with your state's DMV office regarding the hour requirements for classroom education and driving training.

The cost of drivers education depends on which course you need to take. At Coastline Academy, we offer a variety of different courses and in different states. While people ask is drivers ed free, you can check our course offerings here for exact pricing. The cost can also be different if you add in driving lessons when making the purchase.

For the driver education course, that is the time you are learning the rules of the road and getting prepared to get behind the wheel, so it does not include actual driving lessons or the road test. However, if you sign up for driving lessons with Coastline Academy, you have the option of taking a special lesson that will include the road test at the DMV office.

We get it, you want to avoid the top mistakes being made during the behind-the-wheel driving test. That is why Coastline Academy offers the DMV Test Lesson to current students enrolled with Coastline. For this lesson, one of our professional driving instructors would pick you up from home, work or school. From there, you would drive to get comfortable and relaxed behind the wheel.

You are going to get a one-hour lesson, which focuses on preparing you for the test, including a mock test so you know what to expect. After that is done, you will head over to the DMV office, get checked in and take your test in the Coastline car (insurance included).

While you make your way through the driver's license process, just keep in mind that Coastline Academy is with you every step of the way. From the Driver's Ed courses near you to helping you pass the road test with our driving lessons, our staff and instructors are here to help!

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.

What are the costs for Drivers Ed near me? And does drivers ed with road test exist? Coastline Academy answers that today.

If you are searching for driver's ed options near you, you may also be wondering about driver's ed with road test, so find out here.

What Does The Drivers Ed Near Me Cost? Does It Include Road Test?

There are so many terms being used during the driver license process, sometimes it can get a little confusing when trying to decipher what each one means. There are different rules and regulations to follow also, depending on what state you live in. Some states require new drivers to take a drivers education course. Other states require behind-the-wheel training to happen. And then some states don't have any requirements at all! So, what's the difference between Driver's Ed and behind-the-wheel? We take that on in drivers ed vs. behind-the-wheel below!

Driver's education, also known as driver's ed, is a program that teaches individuals how to safely operate a motor vehicle. This can include both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training. The specific curriculum and requirements for driver's ed can vary depending on the state in which you live. In the United States, driver's ed is typically a requirement for obtaining a driver's license for the first time.

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.

Behind-the-wheel (BTW) training is a type of driver education that involves hands-on practice driving a vehicle with a professional instructor or your parent/guardian. The purpose of BTW training is to help new drivers gain the skills and experience they need to safely operate a vehicle on public roads. This type of training typically includes lessons on basic vehicle control, defensive driving techniques and the rules of the road. It is usually required for individuals who are applying for a driver's license, and often includes a certain number of hours of driving practice, as well as an evaluation by the instructor.

After obtaining 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. 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.

In summary, they are both part of your driver's training journey. Drivers Ed is the class or program that teaches you the rules of the road and how to operate a vehicle safely. Behind-the-wheel training is the hands-on portion of driver's training, where you practice driving with a licensed instructor in a car. Both are typically required for individuals to obtain a driver's license.

What is Drivers Ed and what does behind the wheel mean? We take a look at both and let you know the difference here!

While you may have heard of driver's ed and behind the wheel, what's the difference? We address that here!

Drivers Ed vs. Behind-The-Wheel: What Are The Differences?

Thanks to advances in technology and the pandemic, more and more people are wanting to do things online rather than in person. This also pertains to people looking to get their driver's license for the first time. If you are one of those people, then you might be wondering can you take drivers training online in Indiana? We have that answer for you below!

We take a closer look at what driver's training is exactly. Driver training means behind-the-wheel instruction, extended learning, observation time and classroom instruction provided by a driving school whose purpose is to teach students how to safely operate a motor vehicle.

Can You Take Driver's Training Online In Indiana?

In Indiana, this would depend on when you plan on getting your probationary driver's license. If you plan on getting your license before you are 16 years and 270 days old, then you are required to complete driver's education. However, if you are 16 years and 270 days or older, then you are not required to take a Drivers Ed course. The Drivers Ed course consists of 30 hours of classroom instruction, which can be completed online.

If you wish to obtain your probationary driver's license prior to being 16 years and 270 days of age, then you must complete six hours of behind-the-wheel driving lessons, which Coastline Academy offers. In addition to the six hours of driving lessons, you are also required to complete 50 hours of driving practice outside of the lessons with a licensed driving instructor, a certified driver rehabilitation specialist, or a licensed driver who is at least 25 years of age and who is related to you by marriage, blood, or legal status.

If the licensed driver is your spouse, they have to be at least 21 years of age. Of those 50 hours, 10 of them have to be completed at night. The minimum amount of time these hours can be completed is in 30 days. Needless to say, this portion of driver's training cannot be done online since you need to be inside a car to complete it.

To summarize, part of driver's training can be done online in Indiana (Drivers Ed), but the driving lessons would be done in-person. For anyone over 18, the driver's ed course and behind-the-wheel driving lessons are not required. You would still need to complete the 50 hours of driving practice before taking the road test. We do recommend taking both though, as it can only help prepare you more for the behind-the-wheel road test at the BMV office. We hope this clears it up for you!

When it comes to getting your drivers license, you may be asking if you can take drivers training online in Indiana? We answer that below!

Is there an online option for drivers training in Indiana? Find out here!

Can You Take Drivers Training Online In Indiana?

The rules for getting your driver's license varies by states, especially when it concerns adult drivers. Regardless of what state you live in, most new drivers have to take part in some kind of driver's training program, which would include behind-the-wheel driving lessons and/or Drivers Ed. Today we are discussing Drivers Ed with behind the wheel lessons, as well as helping you with your questions on how to find Drivers Ed near me for adults.

As of today, 32 states require teens to take drivers ed before they are allowed to sit for the written and driving exam to get their drivers license. Each state is different, as some states that don't require a drivers ed program do require applicants to gain driving experience before taking their exam. It all varies by state, so make sure to verify with your state's DMV office regarding the hour requirements for classroom education and driving training.

For those new drivers over 18 years old, you may be wondering if and when do you take drivers ed? This also depends on the state you live in. Adult Driver's Ed courses may or may not be required in the state you live in. In Illinois, new drives between 18 and 21 years old are required to take a 6-hour adult driver's ed course, but anyone over 21 years old is not required. You need to check with your state licensing office to see what your specific state requirements are.

For Driver's Ed courses, Coastline Academy began in California and we now offer courses in multiple states. Depending on your state's requirement, the course you may need to take varies. You should check with your state licensing office to see what your specific state requirements are. A list of the courses offered at Coastline Academy can be found here, which are all offered online.

Drivers Ed with behind-the-wheel training is a type of educational program that teaches people how to operate a motor vehicle. It typically includes both classroom instruction and hands-on practice driving a car, with the goal of preparing students to pass a driving test and obtain a driver's license. The behind-the-wheel portion of the program usually involves a certified instructor accompanying the student in the car while they practice driving, providing guidance and feedback.

At Coastline Academy, we offer driving lessons in California, Nevada, Colorado, Missouri, Indiana and Illinois. With that in mind, it is very easy to see if we have driving instructors in your area and if we do, book right online with them! To do so:

Check out our Driving Lessons page by clicking here.

Once on that page, click on the See Prices & Availability button.

This screen will allow you to input your address and search to see if driving lessons are available in your area.

If available in your area, then you can choose a date, time and instructor to have your lesson with.

If we aren't in your area right now, we are expanding and growing and will hopefully be in your area soon!

How to find Drivers Ed near me for adults, as well as discussing Drivers Ed with behind the wheel programs near me.

Today we discuss driver's ed programs that are combined with behind-the-wheel lessons, as well as how to find a driver's ed program near you for adults.

Drivers Ed With Behind The Wheel: How To Find Drivers Ed Near Me For Adults

There are certain terms that are mentioned when you are going through the driver's license journey that may be confusing, like Driver's Ed and Driver's Training. Most states require new drivers to take a drivers education course and some states have no requirements at all! While some refer to it as drivers ed and others refer to it as drivers training, what is the difference between Driver's Ed and driver's training? We take that on in drivers ed vs. drivers training below!

Driver's education, also known as driver's ed, is a course of instruction that teaches individuals the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to become safe and responsible drivers. Driver's ed courses are usually required for individuals who are applying for a driver's license for the first time, but they may also be taken by experienced drivers who want to improve their skills or learn about new traffic laws and regulations.

Driver's ed courses may be offered by public or private schools, driving schools or other organizations. In some states, driver's ed is required for all new drivers, while in other states it is only required for drivers under a certain age.

Driver's training is a type of education program that teaches people how to operate a motor vehicle safely and responsibly. Driver's training programs typically include both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel practice. The goal of driver's training is to prepare individuals to pass a driving test and obtain a driver's license, but it can also be useful for people who want to improve their driving skills or learn more about traffic laws and safe driving practices.

Driver's training programs may be offered by schools, private driving schools or other organizations. They may be required for people who are applying for a driver's license for the first time, or they may be optional for people who want to brush up on their driving skills or learn to drive a specific type of vehicle.

Driver's training programs typically include instruction on topics such as traffic laws, vehicle control, road signs and safe driving habits. Behind-the-wheel practice may involve driving on different types of roads and in different traffic conditions, as well as practicing emergency maneuvers and other driving skills.

Driver education and driver training are both programs that are designed to help people learn how to operate a motor vehicle safely and responsibly. However, there are some key differences between the two.

Driver education is a formal program that is typically offered in schools or through private driving schools. It is usually required for people who are getting their driver's license for the first time, or who need to refresh their knowledge of the rules of the road. Driver education programs usually involve a combination of classroom instruction, written tests, and behind-the-wheel driving experience. The goal of driver education is to provide people with the knowledge and skills they need to pass the written and practical driving tests required to obtain a driver's license.

Driver training, on the other hand, is typically a more focused and intensive program that is designed for people who need to learn specific driving skills or improve their overall driving ability. Driver training programs may be offered by private driving schools or individual instructors, and can be customized to meet the needs of the individual student. Driver training programs may include advanced driving techniques, defensive driving skills, or specialized training for certain types of vehicles, such as commercial trucks or buses. The goal of driver training is to help people improve their driving skills and become safer, more confident drivers.

In summary, driver education is a broad program that covers the basic knowledge and skills needed to obtain a driver's license, while driver training is a more focused program that is designed to help people improve their driving skills or learn specialized techniques.

Do you need to take Driver's Ed? What is drivers training? We take on the difference between the two here!

You hear driver's ed and driver's training being thrown around, but what's the difference? We address that here!

Drivers Ed vs. Drivers Training: Find Out The Differences

While you are working to obtain your driver's license, you may get confused by some of the terms that are mentioned. Most states require new drivers to take a drivers education course. You may have also heard of defensive driving courses. And some states have no requirements at all! So, what is the difference between Driver's Ed and defensive driving? We take that on in drivers ed vs. defensive driving below!

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.

Defensive driving is a set of driving techniques that are designed to help drivers anticipate and respond to potential hazards on the road. The goal of defensive driving is to reduce the risk of collision and injury by being aware of your surroundings and making informed decisions about when and how to react to potential hazards.

Defensive driving techniques may include:

Anticipating the actions of other drivers

Using proper signaling when changing lanes or turning

By using defensive driving techniques, you can increase your awareness of your surroundings and reduce the likelihood of being involved in a collision.

Defensive driving courses are educational programs designed to teach drivers how to reduce the risk of accidents and make better decisions on the road. These courses typically cover a variety of topics, including driving laws and regulations, how to react to unexpected situations, and how to avoid common driving mistakes.

Many defensive driving courses are aimed at helping drivers avoid traffic violations and improve their driving skills, but they can also be helpful for those who want to reduce the risk of being involved in a collision or other accident. Some defensive driving courses are offered by state agencies or other government organizations, while others are offered by private companies or driving schools.

When it comes to driver education courses and defensive driving courses, there is one big difference: requirements. As mentioned above, most states require new drivers to take a Driver's Ed course. However, defensive driving courses are typically offered as a voluntary option for drivers who want to improve their skills or fulfill a requirement for a traffic violation. Some states may require drivers to complete a defensive driving course as part of a plea bargain or court order in connection with a traffic citation. The specific requirements for taking a defensive driving course vary by state.

In some states, drivers may be required to take a defensive driving course if they have received a certain number of traffic violations or points on their driving record within a certain period of time. In other states, defensive driving courses may be required as part of a rehabilitation program for drivers who have had their license suspended or revoked.

It is important to check the laws and regulations in your state to determine whether you are required to take a defensive driving course. You can typically find this information on the website of your state's department of motor vehicles or by contacting the DMV directly.

What is Drivers Ed and what is defensive driving? We take a look at both and let you know the difference here!

While you may have heard of driver's ed and defensive driving, but what's the difference? We address that here!

Drivers Ed vs. Defensive Driving: What Is The Difference?

When working to get your driver's license in Nevada, the whole process can be daunting and stressful. The process starts with new drivers needing to complete a Drivers Ed course depending on their age, which Coastline Academy offers online. Once you have finished the course, you will receive a certificate of completion. Many students and parents ask: how long is Drivers Ed certificate good for in Nevada? Find out below!

For the driver education classes, students are taught the techniques of driving a vehicle, as well as basic vehicle maintenance, safety precautions, traffic regulations and laws. This course is a great way for new drivers to learn the rules of the road before getting behind the wheel themselves.

Yes, the Nevada DMV requires new drivers in Nevada to enroll in a driver's education course, which consists of 30 hours of classroom instruction. These courses can be done at public or private high schools, DMV-licensed professional driving schools or state-approved online courses. Once the course is finished, you will receive a certificate of completion, which you will need to show the DMV office when applying for your license. Also, before enrolling in any driving school, make sure they are state-approved!

Does Drivers Ed Certificate Expire In Nevada?

In Nevada, a Drivers Ed Certificate does not expire. Once you complete a Driver Education program and receive a certificate, it is valid for the rest of your life. This certificate is required in order to obtain a Nevada driver's license if you are under the age of 18.

However, it's important to note that while the certificate itself does not expire, the knowledge and skills that you learn in a Driver Education program should be continually refreshed and updated throughout your driving career. It is important to always follow safe driving practices and stay up to date on traffic laws in order to keep yourself and others on the road safe.

Young drivers can obtain an instruction (learner's) permit at age 15½. You must present proof of your identity and Nevada residential address unless you already hold a Nevada ID Card. Proof is typically a certified, U.S. issued Birth Certificate, your Social Security Card and two documents to prove your address.

One thing to keep in mind, Instruction Permits are valid for one year. If your permit has expired before you obtain you driver's license, you must apply for renewal of your permit in person at a DMV office. A parent/guardian must sign another Financial Responsibility Statement.

How long is Drivers Ed certificate good for in Nevada? Check out the details on can drivers training expire.

After completing driver education in Nevada, you might be wondering does the certificate of completion expire? We answer that here!

How Long Is Drivers Ed Certificate Good For In Nevada?

The entire driver's license journey can be a stressful and hectic time for everyone involved. There are different steps and requirements for each state in order to get your official license. However, most states start out with teens needing to take a driver education course, which is why many students ask what are the best driver's ed courses available and which ones have the best reviews? We look into that now!

One of the big debates when it comes to Driver's Ed has to be whether or not to take an online course or classroom instruction. While both have their own pros and cons, that final decision comes down to you and your preferences in a learning environment. Texas even has a third option available, as you can take Parent-Taught Driver's Ed, so the options are out there.

While everyone's preferences are different, a good first step to determining this would be to make sure the online course is state certified. That means the state approves it, so it has met certain criteria and should be a pretty stellar course.

From there, another good option is to check the Drivers Ed reviews for that driving school. Previous students and parents are going to leave open and honest reviews, so this is a good way to judge the school before signing up. Coastline Academy is state-certified and offers online drivers ed in California, Colorado, Indiana, Missouri, Nevada and Texas right now. With over 39,000 reviews, we pride ourselves on offering a great online Driver's Ed course, as well as following it up with first-class driving instructors and driving lessons.

The way you sign up for drivers education would depend on the instruction type you choose. For the classroom instruction, this can be done at your high school, if they still offer it, or at a private driving school in your area (as long as they are certified by your state's DMV).

Your state's DMV office should list the DMV-certified programs available in your state. If you want to do online driver's ed, then Coastline Academy offers that for certain states and is DMV-certified in those same states.

Coastline Academy is proud to say that we have almost 40,000 reviews left by former students and parents. Of those reviews, 97.5% of them are 5-star reviews! We are committed to providing the best experience in the country. Here is what some of our recent customers have said:

"I'm more than happy that Mark was available yet again for my warm up before the drive test.  He's exceptionally friendly and knowledgeable and helped me pass the test with confidence."

"Friendly, patient and most of all amazing."

"She was great and created an amazing atmosphere in the car. I would definitely recommend her, especially to anyone who learns through visual aids. Overall, one of the best instructors I've had!"

As you start your driver's license journey, you may be researching your Drivers Ed options and checking out the best reviews. We take a deep dive into that today.

When you are taking driver's education, there are many options out there. We look at the best drivers ed options, including reviews.

What Are Best Drivers Ed Options With Reviews?

Distracted Driving In Texas: A Look Into Texas Cell Phone Laws

Texas Cellphone Laws

Stay Safe and Informed

About the Author

More Drivers Ed Articles