Take a Driver's Education Course in California Online

Written by Michael Purser

If you're aiming to get your learner's permit in the Golden State, you must first meet certain requirements. Completing a mandatory learning program is the first step toward becoming a licensed motorist.

Don't worry about signing up for lessons or enrolling in classes at school. Instead, you can choose an online learning option. This article will help you learn how.

Who Needs to Complete Driver Education

California requires all new motorists to apply for an instruction permit before they can hold a license. It doesn't matter whether you're a sophomore in high school or well into your golden years. Everyone has to practice with a permit at first.

If you are younger than 18, you can't just walk into the DMV to take a test and file some paperwork. Minors must complete 30 hours of approved driver education (DE) and six hours of behind-the-wheel driver training (DT) first.

If you are at least 17 and a half years old, you can bypass the education requirement and apply for your permit like an adult. But you probably shouldn't. Driving is difficult. And it can be dangerous. Careful preparation will protect you and others on the road.

The Difference Between DE and DT

DE and DT prepare young motorists for the responsibility that comes with driving privileges. DE focuses on knowledge and theory, while DT offers practical experience. By the time you finish both, you will be ready to hit the road!

Classroom Education

DE is the driver's ed classroom course. There is a lot to learn before you ever put your key in the ignition. You need to remember traffic laws and master basic road skills. You should understand the dangers of impaired driving and road rage.

This portion of your education also teaches you everything you need to know about how cars work, including safety equipment and maintenance. DE helps you share the road with motorcycles, pedestrians and animals. It even walks you through procedures to follow if you are involved in an accident.

By the time you complete DE, you will have a strong foundation of basic skills. Your education will keep you safe during hands-on training and beyond.

Behind the Wheel

DT is a safe environment for you to practice what you learned in DE. Using special training vehicles, you will turn theory into experience. Approved DT lasts at least six hours.

An instructor will be beside you at all times. They have extra mirrors and a separate brake pedal to help you stay out of danger. Your first few hours will help you correct your form and build new road skills.

After six hours of training, you will need another 50 hours of practice, including 10 hours of night driving.

Online Driver Education

You don't need to step into a traditional classroom to meet the learning requirements for your permit. Instead, consider completing the process entirely online.

Virtual training covers every topic you'd encounter in a physical class, ensuring you gain the same knowledge and skills — without the inconvenience of a fixed schedule or a commute.

Curious about how it works? Imagine mastering everything you need to know on your own time. No rigid deadlines. No classroom stress. Just flexible learning designed to fit your lifestyle.

SafeMotorist provides a fully approved online program for future California motorists. Backed by American Safety Council, our platform is officially recognized by the DMV and meets all state requirements.

With our online curriculum, you're in control. Use your phone, tablet or computer to learn wherever life takes you. Follow a step-by-step plan that's tailored for busy schedules.

Take advantage of a thorough program with 15 engaging modules that cover everything required for the big test — spread over 30 hours of detailed guidance.

Why wait? Build your skills and confidence on your terms and get ready to hit the road with peace of mind.

Start Learning Today

Getting started is easy. Just sign up for SafeMotorist's online driver education course! As soon as you enroll, you will have 24/7 access to our student-friendly learning platform. You will be in complete control of your learning experience.

After you finish every lesson and pass the final exam, we'll send your official certificate. Within 10 business days, you'll be ready to apply for your instruction permit.

For even more training, try one of our other traffic safety courses. You can never be too prepared for your first time behind the wheel. Learn with SafeMotorist. Drive with confidence.