How to Take a Drivers Education Course in Arizona
Whether you are a first-time teen or adult driver, you will find that taking drivers ed classes in Arizona is a great way to learn how to drive. These classes are also ideal if you are a parent who does not feel comfortable or confident to teach your teen the rules of the road. Luckily, many high schools in Arizona offer drivers ed classes to help prepare first-time drivers for operating a vehicle. There are also many private options available, such as adult drivers education and online options.
AZ drivers ed will build confidence, knowledge and skills as you navigate the course. Approved, licensed driving schools offer comprehensive programs that encompass both in-classroom and behind-the-wheel learning time. This two-pronged approach is highly effective and helps you learn the basics like safe driving techniques and your responsibilities as a driver, helping you grow to be a better driver in the long run.
Who needs to take drivers ed in Arizona?
In Arizona, drivers education is optional and not mandatory. However, as part of the state’s GDL (graduated driver’s license) program, an Arizona drivers ed course or completed supervised practice are required. This only applies to individuals who wish to apply for a graduated state license.
Types of Drivers Ed Classes in Arizona
There are different Arizona drivers ed school options for enrollees to consider. Because many high schools in the state offer courses, this is often the easy go-to choice for most students. However, there are also other options such as an online drivers ed course or independent driving schools. Many of these driving schools are open for adult drivers education and are flexible with scheduling, as well.
While online programs offer the most flexibility, experience through these types of programs will not be recognized by the AZ GDL program. Only professional Arizona driver education schools or certified high school drivers ed will be recognized. State-approved programs must have 30 hours of classroom lessons and a minimum of six hours behind the wheel.
What will you learn in an Arizona drivers ed school?
Motor Vehicle Division-approved education programs need to cover all of the basics regarding safe vehicle operation, as well as the material necessary to get an Arizona driver’s license. These courses should include information such as:
- Traffic laws.
- Road signs.
- DUI regulations.
- License requirements.
Anyone interested in taking optional drivers ed courses for personal improvement can enroll in classes that do not meet state requirements, if desired.
Arizona Drivers Education Requirements
Individuals must be at least 15 years and 6 months of age and able to pass vision and written test to apply for an Arizona learner’s permit. In order to qualify for the graduated license program, individuals must be between 16 and 18 years of age, held a learner’s permit for at least six months and completed AZ drivers ed class approved by the MVD.
Drivers ed can be through approved driving schools or parent-taught drivers ed which requires teenaged to completed a minimum of 30 hours behind-the-wheel with a parent or legal guardian present. At least 10 of those hours must be nighttime driving hours. For state-approved courses, enrollees can expect 30 hours in-classroom and at least six hours of practical driving practice.
Benefits of an Arizona Driver Education Course
Individuals who first take drivers ed before they get their license experience many benefits. They are able to learn important safe driving techniques such as defensive driving in addition to the basics of vehicle operation. They also enjoy learning from qualified, experienced instructors.
Good, safe drivers are those who understand the rules of the road and know how to avoid accidents. AZ drivers education aims to make safe drivers through proper, effective education. In Arizona, drivers ed is also a necessary step if you wish to obtain a graduated driver’s license. Additionally, drivers may receive a discount on their car insurance from participating coverage providers, allowing them to save money and begin their driving experience on the right foot.
How to Enroll in an Arizona Driver Ed School
Arizona teen driving classes are available at many public high schools and students can register internally. Individuals who wish to take an online course will need only a few minutes to enroll.
However, they should be aware that these classes will not qualify for the graduated license program. There are many private driving schools in the state. Some may allow students to enroll online while others may require a phone call to get the initial information.
Arizona DMV Drivers Ed Certificates
Most driving schools will provide a certificate of completion when you pass the AZ drivers ed course. A certificate from an approved school is necessary if you plan to receive your Arizona GDL. Online courses are not accepted at this time.
Drivers Ed for New Arizona Residents
You do not need to have an Arizona driver’s education certificate in order to get a state license. If you are a new resident, you will need to go to one of the 40 state offices or over 160 privately operated third-party locations in person to get your initial driver’s license. Be sure to go over the state driver’s manual and take a practice test in case there are any state laws you need to familiarize yourself with.
Arizona Drivers Ed vs. Traffic School
Traffic school and driver education programs are different things. Driver’s ed is exclusively for new drivers while traffic school is for individuals who already have a license. Traffic school is often taken in order to avoid points being added to a driver’s license because of a traffic infraction. In traffic school, drivers brush up on the fundamentals of safe driving.
Arizona Driver Education Fees
Search for driver’s ed programs in your area to get a price quote. While drivers ed prices in Arizona do vary, you can expect classes to cost from $200-$600. Some schools may offer add-ons such as extra time with a driving instructor that could affect the final cost. You can also find affordable online options or free online practice test, if you are only looking to practice for the state written exam.
Sources
- Tests, Manuals and Driving Schools from AZDOT.gov