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The Alabama DMV allows for different kinds of driver’s education programs. Drivers education is primarily for youth drivers who are seeking to obtain their first driver’s license.
Continue reading below to learn more about driver’s education courses for young drivers in Alabama. You can also take an Alabama DMV Practice Test to prepare for your written test.
AL Driver’s Education for Young Drivers
Alabama driver education is an important part of the mandatory graduated driver’s license program in Alabama. The Alabama DPS requires young drivers to complete this program before applying for a driver’s license for the first time.
Importantly, you do not need to have a learner’s permit to enroll in AL driver’s education or behind-the-wheel instruction.
When to Take Driver’s Education in Alabama
For most young drivers, GDL requirements do apply. There are exceptions:
- Older than 18 years old.
- 17 years old or older.
- Have had a valid driver’s license for more than 6 months.
- An emancipated minor.
In most cases, you can take an Alabama driver’s education course if you are younger than 18 years old. Be sure to apply for a learner’s permit and complete an approved driver’s education course by the Alabama Department of Education.
Next, you will need to complete 50 hours of behind-the-wheel driving practice with a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old.
Private High School Driver & Traffic Safety Education Program in Alabama
The Traffic Safety Education Program is primarily an elective course for tenth-grade high school students. It applies to drivers who are 15 years old or older and eligible to get an AL learner’s license. The DPS requires at least 70 hours OR at least 1 semester in Alabama.
The curriculum for the Private High School Driver & Traffic Safety Education Program includes classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel instruction. You will need to complete classroom instruction before moving onto Alabama behind-the-wheel instruction.
Alabama Third-Party Testing
If you attend a school with the Third-Party Testing program, you may opt to make avail of it.
This program allows driver’s education teachers in private high schools to work as a third-party agent for the Alabama DPS. These third-party testers can administer the driving part of the driver’s licensing exam.
NOTE: An Alabama DPS representative must approve the third-party testing program.
Defensive Driving Classes in Alabama
Consider taking an approved Alabama defensive driving course to dismiss a traffic ticket, or earn a car insurance discount. For eligibility, you may need to contact your car insurance company or the court in the county where you received the ticket.