How to find a certified driver education program

Many teens choose to begin Driver’s Education during their summer break, when they don’t have to worry about school schedules or homework.  

The Michigan Department of State certifies driver education providers and instructors to teach driver education in Michigan. Programs are offered by some public school districts, as well as private driving schools.  

The links below provide listings of certified Michigan driver education providers, instructors and classrooms:

• Driver Education Provider List  A listing of certified driver education providers sorted alphabetically by provider name.

• Driver Education Classrooms  A listing of driver education classrooms sorted by county.

• Certified Driver Education Instructors  A listing of certified driver education instructors sorted alphabetically by the last name of the instructor.

For more information, visit the Teen Driver Resource How to Choose a Driving School website that is administered by the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute.

Want to ride? Get endorsed! It's the law.

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month and Secretary of State Ruth Johnson reminds all drivers in Michigan who wish to legally operate a motorcycle that they must have a motorcycle endorsement.

Motorcyclists under 18 years of age with a Michigan driver’s license are also required to take a motorcycle safety course. A first offense for riding unendorsed is punishable by a $500 fine and/or up to 90 days in jail.  

For more information, including a list of motorcycle training class sponsors by county visit the Michigan Rider Education Program page.

If you are involved in a crash, stop and remain at the scene. Help secure medical aid for those who are injured. If possible, get off the roadway and/or move vehicles out of the path of traffic. Notify the police if there are injuries or property damage exceeding $1,000. Leaving the scene of an accident could result in fines and/or imprisonment. Ruth Johnson Secretary of State

Beware the Ghost Riders

If you think it's worth the risk to text and drive and that the chances are slim you'll be caught, think again.

Several law enforcement agencies in Michigan are participating in Operation Ghost Rider, in which law enforcement officers ride as passengers in unmarked vehicles. When they spot a distracted driver, they call in a marked patrol car to make the stop and ticket the driver.

Read the WDIV story

Teaching tip for parents

Teach your teen vehicle basics before actual driving begins.

Begin by walking around the exterior of the vehicle and checking for leaks and hazards like broken glass. Once inside the vehicle, teach correct mirror settings. Then have them practice these basic skills until they don't need help:

• Starting and stopping the engine
• Naming and operating all dashboard controls
• Checking oil level
• Checking wiper fluid
• Checking tire pressure

Information excerpted from the Parent's Supervised Driving Guide, a helpful resource for families with young drivers..