Driver Education

Standard 1 The student and parent (or legal guardian) will discuss the process of the “Graduated Driver License Law” and “Parental Responsibilities” and review crash statistics and risks associated with driving and how parental involvement can establish lifetime safety for new drivers.

America is perhaps the only nation on earth in which the automobile is widely considered an essential.

Driver Education Definitions…

Driver Education Learning experiences provided by the school for the purpose of developing knowledge, attitudes, habits and skill necessary for the safe operation of motor vehicles.

Classroom Instruction Learning experiences centered in the classroom (not less than 27 hours) which utilize effective teaching methods such as lecture, small or large group discussion, audiovisual aids, technology, etc.

Behind-the-wheel Instruction Learning experiences centered in a vehicle atmosphere (6 hours) which provide students with opportunities for learning the proper operation of a vehicle under real or simulated traffic conditions.

Observation Time Student time spent in a motor vehicle other than at the controls (6 hours), and involving discussion and assessment of the driving task.

Dual Control Vehicles Vehicles equipped with auxiliary controls which enable the instructor to assume control of the vehicle when necessary.

Learner Permit A permit issued by the Utah State Driver License Division to a person who: Has reached 15 years of age. Has passed the knowledge test required by the division Has passed the physical and mental fitness tests Has submitted non-refundable fee for a learner permit The permitee may drive only when accompanied in the front seat by an approved driving license instructor or the applicants parent or legal guardian.

Graduated License Involves restrictions on driving by minors in the following areas: A person younger than 17 years of age may not operate a vehicle on any highway between the hours of 12:00 am and 5:00 am except: When accompanied by a licensed driver at least 21 years of age. When driving to and from the drivers employment When driving to and from the drivers religion-sponsored or school-sponsored activity When engaged in an agricultural operation ; or In an emergency

A person may not operate a motor vehicle upon any highway with any passenger who is not an immediate family member of the driver until Six months from the date of the person’s driver license was issued; or The person reaches 18 years of age

Exceptions to these rules are: If accompanied by a licensed driver at least 21 years of age On assignment of a farmer or rancher and the driver is engaged in an agricultural operation With written consent of the driver’s parent or guardian to drive to and from school, school- sponsored activity, or religion-sponsored activity; or In an emergency

Driver Education Standards All classroom and behind-the-wheel student experiences in driver education shall take place under the supervision of teachers or instructors who are certified and have met the qualifications prescribed by the State Board of Education.

Instruction should include: Basic and advanced driving strategies Perceptual and decision-making techniques Psychological and physiological conditions of the driver Rules of the road, state laws, and local ordinances Signs, signals, highway markings, and highway design innovations which require understanding for optimum performance

Operation of motor vehicles on streets and highways, with emphasis on techniques that will aid the driver in avoiding crashes. This should include training in handling driving emergencies, including hydroplaning, skid avoidance and recovery

The characteristics of the highway transportation system (HTS) that: – Aid the driver in crash avoidance – Protect the driver and passengers in crashes – Address aggressive driving, including road rage

Railroad crossing safety (minimum 1 hour) Special characteristics of urban, rural and interstate driving. Preventive maintenance Sharing the road with other highway transportation systems Graduated licensing Insurance and liability

Distracted driving Drugs and alcohol Parental involvement Sleep deprivation Texting

Crash Statistics In Utah stics.html

Learner permit Students will need to complete a driver education course, pass the driving test, and complete at least 40 hours of driving a motor vehicle with a parent/legal guardian/responsible adult, of which at least ten hours shall be during night hours after sunset before they will receive a regual driver license. Students will also need to be 16 years of age, and they must hold a learner’s permit for at least six months before they can obtain a regular driver license.

Parent school relationships A signed consent form or permission slip should be in the possession of the school for each student enrolled. Back to school night with parents/guardians.

Road test Two or more students must always be in the driver education vehicle during a road test with a Driver Ed instructor.

Utah driver handbook The utah driver handbook can be found online at