FCPS HS' Drivers Ed Q

[Anonymous]

Our oldest is a 9th grader and turns 15.5 this spring and we're new to the state, so we're trying to figure out the steps for getting a driving permit and license. I of course checked the VA DMV site. I also saw in an email from our HS (McLean) that all 10th graders take Driver's Ed as part of Health & PE. They also offer the Partners in Safe Driving event for parents/teens.

Do the schools also offer driving practice? Or do most kids do that through private driving schools?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Our oldest is a 9th grader and turns 15.5 this spring and we're new to the state, so we're trying to figure out the steps for getting a driving permit and license. I of course checked the VA DMV site. I also saw in an email from our HS (McLean) that all 10th graders take Driver's Ed as part of Health & PE. They also offer the Partners in Safe Driving event for parents/teens.

Do the schools also offer driving practice? Or do most kids do that through private driving schools?

the schools do not provide driving practice.

[Anonymous]

You can book Behind the Wheel through the FCPS Ace online campus if you want. Those instructors pick up/drop off at school so there is that. But if you are not yet time/hours eligible for your license they will hold your paperwork in Falls Church and you have to pick it up in person by appt only. There are also many private providers of Behind The Wheel in the area. Recommend that your student does BTW only once they have a significant number of hours under their belt already or it is a waste (30-45 hrs). So you do it towards the end of your 9 months of permitted driving, since the instructor gives the drivers test at the last driving session.

[Anonymous]

You can hire a private driving school to “teach” your child to drive when they have their permit. This is expensive! But if you feel you do not have the time or patience it is an option. Typically parents teach their kids. You need 40 hours( more is better) of practice (15 at night). Once they have permit, start in Empty parking lots to practice basics, then move to neighborhood then venture on to more challenging areas.
Steps:study for permit test, take test, pass, start to log 40 hour of practice, take Drivers Ed in 10th grade, do the parent teen driver course in 10th grade. Once they’ve completed hours, drivers Ed and course you need to register for the 7 day Behind the Wheel Course either through FCPS or a driving school( a lot in area). It’s 6 days of driving 45 mins and observing 45 mins of someone else driving. On 6th day you typically take a pre test. If instructor feels you are ready, 7th day you take your test to receive license.

[Anonymous]

I forgot to add that you need to hold you permit for 9 months before you can get your license.

[Anonymous]

The pp is pretty accurate. One correction...your child needs 45 hours (15 at night), not 40.

[Anonymous]

Thanks, all! This is really helpful.