Driving school is an excellent way to assist a new driver in their life. For example, when you’re a parent, the day your teenager gets his or her driver’s licence can be both exciting and terrifying. While it’s great to have another driver in the house to pitch in for carpooling or picking up groceries, a brand-new driver also presents some new insurance challenges.
That’s why one of the best gifts you can give your teen driver is to teach them how to be a safe driver. This means leading by example and providing them with the opportunity to attend driving school. We’ve answered some of your common questions below:
What Is the Minimum Age to Start Driving in Ontario?
According to the Ontario.ca website, residents of Ontario must be at least 16 years old and have a valid Ontario driver’s licence to drive in this province. Visitors to Ontario who wish to drive while here must be at least 16 years old and hold a valid driver’s licence from their province, state, or country. To apply for a G1 licence, you must be at least 16 years old and pass an eye and written test about the rules of the road and traffic signs.
Is Driving School Mandatory in Ontario?
While driving school is usually not mandatory in other provinces, it does teach the fundamentals of safe driving. Often, you can get a discount on your auto insurance if you provide proof you’ve taken driving lessons from an approved school.
What Are the Benefits of Attending a Driving School?
- Structured Learning Environment: Firstly, driving schools offer a comprehensive curriculum for new drivers. With driving school, young/new drivers will learn the rules of the road, traffic laws, and defensive driving techniques in a structured setting.
- Insurance Discounts: Many insurance companies offer premium discounts to young/new drivers who complete a certified driver education program, which can drastically reduce costs.
- Professional Teaching: Driving schools offer certified instructors who provide expert guidance and instruction, helping students develop their skills and learn safe driving habits in a controlled environment.
- Lower Risk of Accidents: Teens/new drivers who attend driving schools are less likely to be involved in accidents. The reasoning may be due to improved knowledge and safer driving practices.
- Increased Confidence: Driving school helps improve your driving skills with a qualified instructor, which boosts confidence behind the wheel. Additionally, the added practice from driving school helps in challenging scenarios, such as highway driving or parallel parking.
How to Choose the Best Driving School in Ontario
When looking for a reputable driving school, consider the following:
- Is it MTO-approved?
- Does it offer both in-class and in-car instruction?
- Are the instructors certified and experienced?
- Are course schedules flexible and convenient?
- Are there positive reviews or testimonials?
How to Teach Your Teen Safe Driving Habits
Besides recommending they attend driving school, the best way to teach your teen how to drive safely is to lead by example. Kick your poor driving habits and ensure your teen is aware of the eight leading causes of teenage driving accidents:
- Speeding and reckless driving
- Inexperience
- Driving with teen passengers
- Driving at night
- Not using seatbelts
- Distracted driving (i.e. texting or talking on the phone)
- Drowsy driving
- Impaired driving
How to Save on Car Insurance for Teen Drivers
Sadly, teen drivers often have the highest insurance premiums because they are inexperienced. But that doesn’t mean you can’t try to reduce your insurance costs. Beyond recommending driving school, the best ways to save include:
- Listing all drivers in your family under one policy and listing your teenager as an occasional driver.
- Bundling auto insurance with existing home, condo, or other insurance.
- Avoid purchasing flashy, high-powered vehicles (which usually come with higher insurance premiums).
- Engage in telematics insurance. This innovative program rewards safe driving with reduced premiums based on real-time monitoring of your vehicle.
- Ask your isure broker about additional discounts.
Driving School and G Licence Progression: What You Need to Know
In Ontario, getting a full G licence involves three steps:
- G1 Licence – Written test
- G2 Licence – Road test after 8–12 months
- Full G Licence – Final road test after 12 months with a G2
Attending a Ministry-approved driving school allows new drivers to take the G2 test in just 8 months, instead of waiting the full year.
Final Thoughts: A Safe Start Leads to Long-Term Success
A solid driving foundation pays off in the long run—for both your insurance premiums and your family’s safety. If you have any questions about adding a new driver to your policy or how driving school can reduce your insurance rates, contact an isure broker today.
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