According to Consumer Affairs, in 2017-2018, just 21% of public schools and 13% of private schools offered online courses. By 2020, those numbers had jumped to 77% and 73%, as most schools shifted online. While the COVID-19 lockdowns of 2020 are long gone, taking online classes remains popular.

Many learners favor online classes because of their flexibility and cost-effectiveness. It’s even possible to learn practical skills through the internet, and many learners are even doing driving classes online, interested in learning more about this innovative and flexible form of education? Read on to learn more about online driver education classes.

What Are Online Driving Classes?

Just like other internet courses, doing driving classes online involves following a set learning curriculum. Throughout your classes, you’ll:

  • Watch videos
  • Complete quizzes
  • Watch detailed animations

You’ll work with this content at your own pace, making online driving courses a great option for people with busy or inconsistent schedules. If you’re a single mom with a chaotic childcare routine, online classes could be a great option.

Get Legitimate Certifications

Of course, it doesn’t matter how flexible the course is if you don’t get a recognized qualification at the end. The good news is that online driving classes earn you official certifications. According to the DMV, it’s possible to earn state-specific certifications online.

The Benefits of Learning to Drive Online

As mentioned, virtual driving school is a flexible way to learn, that lets you choose your schedule. It also works well for people who travel. If you’re constantly on the move, being able to dial into classes from anywhere in the world is invaluable.

They’re also very affordable compared to in-person classes, as online schools have significantly lower operational expenses. These companies don’t need to pay facility fees, and they’ll pass the savings onto you.

Another massive benefit to online classes is that you won’t need to commute. Since you’re learning to drive, this could mean avoiding taking the bus or needing to beg for rides. All in all, if you’re looking for a flexible, affordable, and convenient learning experience, online classes make sense.

The Challenges of Learning to Drive Online

Of course, it’s not all smooth sailing. Learning to drive online has its share of challenges. The most obvious problem is the lack of hands-on experience. There’s no getting around the fact that you’ll need to supplement your online learning with practical driving experience.

Unlike in-person classes, online classes are usually recorded, so you’ll have limited opportunity to interact with your instructors. You also won’t get any real-time feedback when you’re driving, as there’s no practical element involved.

You’ll also need to have self-discipline and a distraction-free environment. Without the predictable structure of guided classes, you’re responsible for keeping up with the workload.

Learn Driving Online to Compliment Practical Experience

The optimal way to approach online driving lessons is by synergizing online classes with real-world experience. Your online classes can help you delve deep into the theoretical foundations of driving. An online class will teach you:

This knowledge needs to be second nature. When you’re behind the wheel, speeding down the highway, you don’t have time to think about the meaning of road signs. You need to instantly recognize them and react appropriately.

Mastering the theoretical side of driving can also help you with practical driving skills. The more ingrained your driving knowledge, the more you can focus on handling your vehicle. If you’re someone who gets anxious behind the wheel, taking online classes could help boost your confidence.

Make Sure the Classes Are Recognized

Before enrolling in a class, always ensure the course is valid. If your state doesn’t recognize the qualification, you won’t be able to obtain a learner’s permit or license. If you’re not sure, check with the DMV.

But, that’s not all you should look out for. Check to see if a potential school:

  • Will help you get discounts on your car insurance if you complete it
  • Provides you with a recognized certificate of verification
  • Has nationwide recognition and validity

Court Ordered Driving Classes

Sometimes, courts require individuals involved in traffic incidents to participate in driving classes. If you’re looking for defensive driving online classes to comply with a court order, always make sure the court recognizes your chosen school.

If there’s any doubt, contact the court or an attorney and make sure.

The Best Schools Are Innovators

Online classes work best when they use the latest technology to its fullest potential. A good school should have a platform that’s compatible with all your devices. When courses are well-designed, they’re equally accessible from phones, laptops, and tablets.

Mobile compatibility is crucial if you travel a lot. You won’t need to take any time off your classes, as long as you have a smartphone, you’re good to go. Of course, mobile compatibility should be a given and the best schools get much more innovative with technology.

For example, many online learning environments now integrate with sophisticated AI systems. Through high-powered machine learning algorithms, an AI assistant will adapt classes to focus on your specific strengths and weaknesses. Some of the more advanced courses may even create simulated driving scenarios using virtual reality headsets.

On the other hand, other schools still have dated websites that won’t load correctly on your phone and tablet. Always do your research, and make sure you don’t sign up for a school that’s stuck in the past.

Take Driving Classes Online Today

While taking driving classes online is no replacement for real-world experience, it’s certainly a great way to learn fundamental theory. If you’re a motivated individual who can stick to your goals, you’ll likely thrive in an online learning environment. Before signing up for a class, always make sure completing the course will grant the appropriate certification.

Are you looking for online classes to help boost your safety, skills, and, confidence? You should consider Brentwood Driver Training. Since 1992, we’ve been helping drivers like yourself master the art of driving through engaging, stress-free lessons.

Ready to drive like a pro? Contact us today to learn more about our driver’s education services.