If there’s another prospective driver in the household, consider using a driving school to help them learn. To get the best instruction and maximum benefits, choose a certified facility with a reputation for teaching proper driving techniques, including defensive driving skills that could save a life. The Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) offers these tips for choosing the right driver education program.
Choose a government-approved school
In Ontario, you can find a list of approved institutions. The MTO also publishes a list of schools with revoked licences.
Check the syllabus
Ontario’s curriculum for beginner drivers includes 20 hours of in-class instruction (which can now be delivered virtually), 10 hours of in-car instruction (largely on hold during Covid-19) and 10 hours of flexible learning, which can include digital resources, in-class or in-car lessons.
Ask for recommendations
Find out what friends liked or didn’t like about their driving schools.
Check ratios
Virtual classrooms cannot exceed a 15:1 student-to-teacher ratio. Pre-pandemic, schools were allowed up to 40 students in their onsite classroom, although the MTO recommended 24. In-car instruction is most productive when it’s one on one.
Research carefully
Get answers to these questions: will the instructor’s schedule fit your own? Will they pick you up at home for in-car lessons? Are you getting the in-class and in-car hours you paid for? Are there any extra or hidden costs? While driver training programs are not inexpensive, the defensive driving and safety skills learned are priceless. Plus, completing an approved course entitles the graduate to reduced insurance premiums.
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Looking for an auto insurance policy? Call 1-800-582-5013 to speak to a Licensed CAA Insurance Agent.
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