Comparing Drivers Ed and Defensive Driving: Understanding the Key Differences

Obtaining a driver’s license is a crucial step in life. However, during the journey to acquire this prestigious credential, you might encounter confusing terminology. In some states, new drivers are required to complete a driver’s education course. While undergoing this training, you may hear about defensive driving courses.

As a new driver, you might wonder if a defensive driving course is the same as driver’s ed. What are the key differences when it comes to driver’s ed and defensive driving?

Exploration of Defensive Driving

Defensive driving courses in Texas are designed to teach both new and experienced drivers a set of specific techniques that help them anticipate and effectively respond to potential hazards on the road. The primary goal of a defensive driving course is not to teach you how to drive a motor vehicle but how to reduce the risk of motor vehicle accidents and injuries by remaining acutely aware of your surroundings while driving.

It is important to select the right defensive driving course that will offer driving techniques, including:

How to maintain a safe following distance
Using proper lane positioning
Keeping off any distractions
Anticipating the actions of other road users

Exploration of Drivers Education

A driver education course offers potential drivers the knowledge they need to drive a motor vehicle. Drivers ed also offers additional lessons to new drivers, including:

Safety precautions whenever using a motor vehicle.
Knowledge of different traffic regulations and laws.
Basic ways to maintain a motor vehicle.

A driver’s education class is also a prerequisite for getting a driver’s license, without which one is not allowed to drive a motor vehicle.

Currently, you can complete your driver’s ed course in a classroom setting or online in El Paso, Arlington, Abilene and other locations, with each offering specific benefits while meeting unique state requirements.

Drivers Ed vs. Defensive Driving

There are major differences between driver’s ed and defensive driving. The first difference between these two courses is the requirements. Most states require that every new driver should complete a driver’s ed course before getting a driver’s permit. On the other hand, new drivers are not required to take a defensive driving course before they are issued with a driver’s license. More often than not, new drivers take a defensive driving course on a voluntary basis, usually as a means to improve their skills. Later on, these drivers take a defensive driving course to fulfill the requirements of a traffic violation.

Enhance Your Driving Skills Today

If you already completed your driver’s ed course and got your driver’s license, you might want to complete a defensive driving course to enhance your driving skills and stay out of trouble with traffic police. At Court Approved, we offer defensive driving courses in Waco that you can take from the comfort of your home at any time.

For more details, contact us today!

Jeff