Overview
This first class covered course structure, driving requirements, expectations, the process for getting a permit and license, and foundational vehicle knowledge.
Course Structure & Google Classroom
- The course consists of 17 classes and 5 driving lessons.
- You cannot miss more than 3 classes; makeup work is required for each missed day.
- Join Google Classroom using code SKATSBM for assignments, FAQs, workbooks, and study materials.
- Parent Night is every Monday, 5–6 p.m. via Zoom, except on holidays.
Attendance & Expectations
- Be present, on time, engaged, and respectful in class.
- More than 10 minutes late counts as an absence.
- In-person students may need to fill out and return an expectations form.
- Disrespectful behavior can lead to suspension or expulsion without refund.
Licensing & Permit Process
- Apply for a permit online through the Department of Licensing and obtain a license number (starts with WDL).
- Email your license number to the school before visiting the Department of Licensing in person.
- A permit allows supervised practice with any adult (21+, licensed for 5+ years).
- You cannot drive alone with a permit.
Driver’s License Requirements
- Must be at least 16 years old and hold a permit for at least 6 months.
- Complete 50 hours of driving practice (10 at night).
- Pass driver's ed, state written exam, and driving exam.
- Intermediate licenses (under 18) have restrictions:
- No passengers under 20 (except family) for 6 months.
- Up to 3 passengers for the next 6 months.
- No driving 1 a.m.–5 a.m. for the first year.
Safety & Risk
- Inexperience is the #1 crash cause for young drivers.
- 90% of fatal crashes could be avoided by reacting one second earlier—avoid distractions.
- Always have your permit and a physical photo ID when driving.
- Notify the Department of Licensing of any address change within 10 days.
Driving Lessons & Scheduling
- Five one-hour driving lessons plus one required observation (watching another student).
- Schedule lessons online; cancel at least 24 hours in advance to avoid $40 late fees.
- Practice at least 5 hours at home before the first lesson, and 5 hours between each lesson.
Vehicle Basics & Controls
- Drive with your right foot only (gas and brake).
- Learn all controls: mirrors, lights, wipers, gear shifter, parking brake, and dashboard symbols.
- Adjust seat first, then mirrors (use proper mirror adjustment techniques).
- Always wear your seatbelt and use the parking brake every time you park.
- Hand position: use 9 and 3 or 8 and 4 on the steering wheel for safety.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Google Classroom — Online platform for class resources and assignments.
- Permit — Official document allowing supervised driving practice; not the pre-application.
- Intermediate Driver’s License (IDL) — License for drivers under 18 with specific restrictions.
- Observation Drive — Riding along to observe another student’s driving lesson.
- Prindle — Acronym for automatic transmission gears: Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive, Low.
- Blind Spot — Area mirrors cannot show; must be checked by turning your head.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Join Google Classroom with the provided code.
- Open your workbook to page 4 and fill in required information.
- Apply for your permit and send your license number to the school.
- Schedule your required driving lessons and observation.
- Practice at least 5 hours at home before your first driving lesson.
- Learn and familiarize yourself with all vehicle controls and dashboard functions.
- Complete assigned homework on page 5 of the workbook.