Which States Require Driver’s Education for a Driver’s License?

Driver’s education has become a crucial part of preparing new drivers for the road. While many students choose training on their own, several states actually require it before a person can obtain a driver’s license. These requirements, often referred to as State Mandated Driver Training, help ensure that new drivers especially teens, gain the skills, confidence, and knowledge needed to drive safely and responsibly.

Introduction to State Mandated Driver Training

State-mandated driver Training refers to the driver education programs required by law for teen drivers before they can apply for a license. These programs are designed to teach essential driving skills, road rules, and safe driving habits through both classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction.

States adopt these mandates to reduce crashes involving inexperienced drivers, improve overall road safety, and ensure that new drivers understand their responsibilities on the road.

Understanding State Requirements for Driver’s Education

Age-Based Rules for Teen Drivers

Most states that require driver’s education apply this rule to teenagers, typically those between 15 and 18 years old. The idea is that younger drivers benefit more from structured learning, supervised practice, and safety-focused instruction than older beginners.

Types of Driver Education Programs States Require

State-mandated driver Training usually includes:

• Classroom or online instruction

• Behind-the-wheel training with a certified instructor

• Supervised practice hours with a parent or guardian

Some states allow online coursework, while others require students to attend state-approved in-person classes.

States That Require Driver’s Education

States With Full State-Mandated Driver Training

The following states require both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training for teen drivers before they can obtain a license:

• California

• Colorado

• Georgia

• Iowa

• Florida

• Nevada

• Oregon

• Texas

• Utah

• Virginia

• Washington

These states require teens to complete a set number of classroom hours—usually 20 to 30—and behind-the-wheel lessons ranging from 6 to 50 hours, depending on the state.

States With Partial or Optional Requirements

Some states do not mandate a full driver’s education program, but may offer advantages for those who complete one, such as fewer required supervised driving hours or faster eligibility for the road test.

Examples include:

• South Carolina

• North Carolina

• Michigan

• Ohio

• New York

In these states, teens can choose to take a driver’s education course, but the requirements vary depending on age and license stage.

How State Mandated Driver Training Works

Enrollment Requirements

To enroll in a state-approved course, students usually must:

• Be at least 14–15 years old (depending on state rules)

• Have parent or guardian permission

• Hold a learner’s permit or be eligible to apply for one

In some states, completing the classroom portion is required before the permit test.

Completion Requirements

Most states issue a certificate of completion that teens must present before scheduling a road test. Requirements typically include:

• Completing all classroom/online hours

• Finishing behind-the-wheel sessions

• Passing course exams or assessments

This certificate proves that the student received the mandated training needed to proceed to the next licensing step.

Benefits of State-Mandated Driver Training

Improved Road Safety

Studies consistently show that teens who complete State Mandated Driver Training are:

• Less likely to be involved in crashes

• More aware of traffic laws

• Better at defensive driving

• More confident behind the wheel

The structured learning helps reduce the risk associated with inexperience.

Faster and Easier Licensing Process

Many states make the licensing process easier for certified students. Benefits may include:

• Shorter waiting periods before the road test

• Reduced supervised driving hour requirements

• Eligibility for the license at a younger age

These incentives encourage more families to enroll in official programs.

Finding State-Approved Driver Training Programs

Using DMV/SCDMV Resources

Most state DMVs provide a list of approved schools and programs. These include classroom schools, online courses, and behind-the-wheel providers authorized to deliver State Mandated Driver Training.

Choosing the Right Training School

When selecting a driving school, look for:

• Certified and experienced instructors

• State approval and up-to-date curriculum

• Positive student reviews

• Flexible scheduling

• Clear pricing and course structure

A reputable program ensures high-quality instruction and better long-term driving habits.

Conclusion

State-mandated driver training plays an important role in helping new drivers—especially teens—learn the rules of the road, develop essential driving skills, and become safe, responsible motorists. While not every state requires it, completing a driver’s education program can significantly improve safety and confidence for any new driver.

Whether mandatory or optional in your state, choosing a certified training program is a smart investment in safe driving for life.