In-car driving lessons are taught by an accredited instructor. Many states require that they begin with the student actively observing as the instructor demonstrates all of the components of road driving. When the student actually gets behind the wheel, they learn not only the fundamental skills like how to steer, use mirrors, signal and park, but also they learn how to recognize and use everything in the control panel, from windshield wipers to the emergency flashers. Most in-car driving lessons include some nighttime driving hours to satisfy state requirements.

Are adults required to take driving lessons?

The majority of states do not require adult drivers to complete driving lessons--only 8 states have such requirements: Florida, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Texas.

Is it required to take in-car driving lessons?

Yes, most states require a beginning driver to take a set number of in-car driving lessons -- often split between observation hours and behind the wheel. Some states, like Alaska and Missouri, require beginning drivers to also complete a certain number of hours of supervised nighttime or bad weather driving.

How many hours of driving lessons is required to get a license?

The hours of driving required to get a license vary by state, but in most states, beginning drivers under the age of 18 must complete a set amount of classroom instruction (30 hours is the norm) and a certain number of hours of on-road instruction (6 hours with an instructor is usually the minimum), plus a higher number of supervised behind-the-wheel driving with a parent or guardian.

How much does driving school cost?

Driving school costs include classroom education and one-on-one behind-the-wheel road training. The classroom part can be quite reasonably priced--as low as $30-$50 for a large group class, and be as high as $100+ for classes with lower student-to-instructor ratios. Hands-on driving lessons cost between $300-$800 for a package of 6-8 lessons. Pricing is impacted by location, price of gas at the time, and length of each lesson.

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