Take an Online Driver's Education Course in Maine

Written by Staff Writer

Navigating Maine's winding roads presents particular challenges for first-time drivers, such as teens, or anyone who isn't used to the specific hazards of driving the state's scenic byways — like harsh winters and wild animals.

An online driving course for first-time drivers may be just what inexperienced motorists need when it comes to navigating the state's highway system. Even the most experienced license holders think twice about driving in the winter.

State Licensing Requirements

The state has some specific rules for students who fall into the 15-17 and 18-20 age brackets.

The Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) requires that young applicants:

  • Earn a Maine learners permit and have it for six months before taking the road test
  • Take the road test (this applies to all drivers, regardless of age)
  • Practice for at least 70 hours behind the wheel, including 10 hours of night driving

New applicants aged 15-17 must also take a state-approved Maine driver's ed course.

While applicants who are at least 18 years of age and over are not required to take a drivers ed course, it is highly advised.

Why All Motorists Benefit

You face many potential road hazards, making discovering the pristine beauty of the Pine Tree State a big challenge.

Common Road Hazards

Here's a sampling of the challenges you'll discover as you travel the Pine Tree State:

  • Moose and other large animals on the roadways
  • Potholes, ruts and buckled pavement
  • Narrow, unlit rural highways — particularly hazardous at night
  • Difficult freeway on- and off-ramps
  • Fog
  • Wet and slippery pavement

While the weather changes frequently, It's important to note that it isn't the only thing that makes the roads challenging to navigate. During the summer, tourists crowd local beaches, making driving more challenging during peak travel seasons.

Pine Tree State Stats

While the state does spend money on mitigating the effects of hazardous weather, the volume of challenges is enough to overwhelm an inexperienced driver.

Here's a look at what the state of Maine faces each winter:

  • 34 snow events
  • 400 snowplows
  • 60-110 inches of snow
  • 100,000 tons of salt and 16,000 tons of sand

According to the Federal Highway Administration, in 2022, the state saw approximately 1.51 fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles of rural travel compared to just 0.6 fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles of urban travel.

That means driving rural roads and highways in the Pine Tree State is almost three times more deadly than in-town trips. Exercise caution while enjoying those shady wooded roads.

Train with Us

SafeMotorist offers a convenient driver education course. This Maine online drivers ed program benefits motorists of all ages and skill levels.

Nine lesson modules prepare you for the challenges you may face behind the wheel. The full training includes 30 hours of classroom instruction.

Our online driver's education curriculum includes:

  • Maneuvering in low-, moderate- and high-risk environments
  • Operating a car in adverse driving conditions
  • Routine vehicle maintenance
  • Navigating limited-access roadways
  • Collision avoidance
  • Expectations for licensed motorists

Learn from real-life driving scenarios. Complete exercises that put the rules of the road into perspective. You'll also get a chance to review what you learn with helpful quizzes. The program prepares you to take the skills test with confidence.

You can complete the entire course 100% online. Lessons are available 24/7, 365 days a year. You can learn at your pace whenever it is most convenient for your schedule.

Would you like to find a driver's ed program in Maine? Reach out to the SafeMotorist today to learn more!