Driver’s Education Improves Driver Safety

An analysis of data on motor vehicle crashes among 130,000 drivers under the age of 24 found that those who are required to take driver’s education classes before obtaining a driver’s license are 27% less likely to be involved in a collision in their first two months on the road. Additionally, the researchers report that driver’s education class graduates are also 14% less likely to be involved in a car accident in their first year behind the wheel. The findings are important as many states only require individuals under age 18 to complete driver’s education classes before taking the behind-the-wheel test for their license. JAMA Network Open, April 2022