Learning to drive is a complex, ongoing process that requires patience and dedication.
So is teaching someone to drive.

The law requires a minimum of 50 hours of practice driving before your teen can even apply for a license. Here are tips for making those hours productive and pleasant.

Model Safe Driving
Teens learn what they observe. Be a good role model and follow the rules of the road.

Practice a lot.
Practice as much as possible. You and your teen should be the only people in the vehicle.

Get in the mood.
Only practice when you are both ready, in good moods and have plenty of time.

Start simple.
Learning to drive can be overwhelming - for your teen and for you. Begin with the basics, such as turning, parking and backing up. When you both feel comfortable, progress to more advanced skills including merging, changing lanes and parallel parking.

Start sunny.
Begin practicing during the day, in good weather. As your teen improves, gradually start driving during different driving conditions, including a variety of times of day, weather and types of roads.

Don't rush into rush hour.
Start with safe, low-risk driving conditions, such as empty parking lots and quiet rural roads. Gradually progress to neighborhood streets with little traffic, then busier roads and highways.

Go to class.
Find a class that teaches parents how to drive with their teen.

Talk with your teen.
Keep the lines of communication open so your teen feels comfortable talking with you. This builds trust and respect.

Take deep breaths.
Remember, new drivers need a lot of practice. Making mistakes is part of learning. Remain calm and focused. Teens will show the greatest improvement in the first 1,000 to 5,000 miles of driving.

Drive Time Log (PDF - Form DR 2324).
Use this log to track your teen's 50 hours

Next: Family Driving Rules & Limits