If you’re a teen or adult preparing to get your driver’s license in California, you’ve probably come across the terms Drivers Ed and Drivers Training. They sound similar, but they’re actually very different and both play critical roles in becoming a safe, legal driver.
At Click2Drive, the best driving school in Santa Clarita, we often encounter enquiries such as,
What is Drivers Ed?
What is Drivers Training?
Do I need both to apply for provisional license?
This blog will give you clear answers and help you understand how each part of the driver education journey is important and necessary for California’s licensing process.
What Is Drivers Ed?
Let’s start with the basics.
As per DMV California, Drivers Ed, short for Driver’s Education is a classroom-based instructional course that teaches new drivers the theory behind safe and legal driving. Whether taken in person or online, the primary goal of Drivers Ed is to prepare you to pass the written DMV permit test and understand California traffic laws.
Drivers Ed Meaning
When students ask, “What is drivers ed?” or search for “drivers ed meaning,” they typically mean to ask that what the program covers. Here’s is what is included in drivers ed classes,
- California road rules and traffic signs
- Vehicle safety and maintenance basics
- Alcohol and drug impairment laws
- Defensive driving techniques
- Rights and responsibilities of drivers
- Sharing the road with pedestrians, bikes, and trucks
Drivers Ed DMV Requirements
In California, Drivers Ed training is required for all teens under the age of 18 before they can take their drivers ed DMV permit test. Upon successful completion of a state-approved course, students receive a DL 400C Certificate of Completion, which is required by the DMV.
What Is a Drivers Ed Pretest and Drivers Ed Test?
Before you can officially pass your DMV test, some programs offer a drivers ed pretest, which includes practice questions that simulate the real exam. These quizzes are crucial for helping students prepare and build confidence before taking the drivers ed test at the DMV.
What Is Drivers Training?
Now, let’s shift gears to Drivers Training, also known as behind-the-wheel training. While Drivers Ed is all about understanding the rules of the road, Drivers Training focuses on applying them through hands-on driving practice with a licensed instructor.
What Is a Driver Training Course?
When people search “what is a driver training course?” or “what is drivers training?” they’re looking for what the course includes. A drivers training course teaches practical skills, including,
- Steering, turning, and braking smoothly
- Lane changes and highway merging
- Parallel and angle parking
- Scanning for hazards and reacting appropriately
- Mastering driving in different road conditions like residential, city, highway
California Driver Training Requirements
In California, both teens and adults must complete at least 6 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction with a certified instructor from a licensed driver training school in California. Also, the drivers training must not exceed 2 hours a day as per DMV California. This is mandatory requirement to apply for provisional license in California.
Drivers Ed vs. Drivers Training: What’s the Difference?
The biggest confusion for new drivers lies in the overlap between these two terms. Here’s a breakdown of their differences,
| Feature | Drivers Ed | Drivers Training |
| Type of Instruction | Classroom or online theory | In-car, hands-on instruction |
| Focus | Rules, laws, road safety knowledge | Practical driving skills and habits |
| Required for | Getting a learner’s permit | Getting a driver’s license |
| Who Teaches It? | Certified classroom instructors or online modules | Licensed driving instructors |
| Format | Self-paced or Scheduled learning | Scheduled driving lessons |
So, while Drivers Ed training in California teaches the “what” and “why,” Drivers Training teaches the “how.”
Why You Need Both Drivers Ed and Drivers Training?
In California, completing both Drivers Ed and Drivers Training is mandatory for most teen drivers. Here’s the usual path,
- Enroll in Drivers Ed: Complete the course and pass your drivers ed test.
- Apply for a learner’s permit: Pass the DMV’s written knowledge exam.
- Begin Drivers Training: Complete at least 6 hours with a certified instructor from a California driver training school.
- Complete driving practice: Practice driving for 50 hours with a licensed adult and 10 hours must at night.
- Take the driving test: Once all requirements are met, schedule your road test with the DMV.
Note: Adults 18 and older aren’t required to take Drivers Ed, but it’s highly recommended, especially if you’re new to driving or unfamiliar with California’s traffic laws.
How to Choose the Right Program?
When looking for a driver training school in California, it’s important to choose one that offers both Drivers Ed and Drivers Training under one roof. Here’s what to consider,
- Is the school DMV-licensed?
- Are the instructors certified and experienced?
- Do they offer flexible scheduling?
- Are they local and reputable?
At our driving school in Santa Clarita, we provide DMV-approved free Drivers Ed and flexible cost packages for behind-the-wheel Drivers Training. Best part? We provide expert instructors who understand how to build confidence behind the wheel.
FAQs About Drivers Ed and Drivers Training
Here are answers to some of the most asked questions related to drivers ed and drivers training in California,
1. Do I need Drivers Ed and Drivers Training to get my license?
Yes, if you’re under 18 in California, both are required.
2. How many hours of Drivers Training are needed?
You must complete 6 hours of professional behind-the-wheel instruction with a certified instructor.
3. What’s the difference between Drivers Ed and Driving Lessons?
- Drivers Ed = classroom or online theory
- Driving Lessons = practical, behind-the-wheel instruction
4. Can I take both programs at the same driving school?
Yes, and it’s often the best choice for convenience, consistency, and scheduling ease.
5. Is Drivers Ed only for teens?
No. Adults can take Drivers Ed too, especially if they want to refresh their knowledge or prepare for the permit test.
Also read: Essential Vehicle Controls to Master for New Drivers Test
Conclusion: Get Your Driver’s License Easily with Drivers Ed and Drivers Training
Knowing the difference between Drivers Ed and Drivers Training isn’t just helpful but it’s also essential. While Drivers Ed gives you the knowledge and theory, Drivers Training provides the real-world driving experience needed to pass your DMV test and drive safely for life.
Whether you’re searching for what is drivers ed, drivers ed training California, or looking for a reliable driving school in Santa Clarita, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Ready to Start Your Driving Journey?
Enroll with Click2Drive, the leading driving school in Santa Clarita, and get the best of both worlds. We provide free Drivers Ed and affordable professional Drivers Training from certified instructors who care about your safety and success.
Contact us today or sign up online to begin your path to becoming a licensed and confident driver!
