This week the Virginia DMV and Department of Education reminded families about an important component of teen driving preparation that could affect how quickly young people progress from a permit to a full driver license. While not a brand new law, the renewed emphasis on the 90-minute parent student section of driver training highlights how crucial family involvement and structured education have become in the licensing process for teens across the Commonwealth.
Under Virginia’s updated driver education framework all minors participating in state-approved programs must complete a 90-minute parent/teen class as part of the classroom portion of instruction. This session is designed to help parents understand their role in supervising new drivers, the common risks teens face on the road, and how to reinforce safe behavior outside of formal lessons. In designated areas like northern Virginia this portion must be in person with a parent or guardian present, while in other localities it may be completed in person or online with parent involvement encouraged.
For new drivers this requirement means that planning ahead with your parent or guardian is part of meeting the full driver education expectations before you can take the road test. Teens working toward a Virginia learner license should schedule this parent/teen session early in their program so they can satisfy it well before applying for a full license.
Parents of permit holders should note that engaging in this session can improve communication about driving safety and help both parties understand how to meet practice hour and supervision requirements more effectively. The emphasis on family engagement and shared responsibility supports safer, more confident drivers as teens approach independent driving.
Whether your teen is enrolled in a traditional school classroom, a home school program, or another form of driver education, completing this parent-engagement requirement is a key step in meeting Virginia’s licensing milestones and setting young motorists up for success.
Students can stay compliant and confident with DriverEdToGo.com as they work toward their driver education goals.