In Montana, students aged 14 ½- 19 can enroll in a traffic or driver's education course. The course requires a minimum of 60 total hours split between time in the classroom and time in the car. Students will be given the written knowledge test in the first week of the class. Upon earning an 82% or higher on the written test, students will be issued a Non-Commercial Learner’s Permit and can start driving with any adult with a valid driver's license. After 6 months, successful completion of the class and 50 hours BTW (40 day time & 10 night time), students can obtain a restricted Graduated Drivers License (GDL).
Traffic Education at Corvallis School District (Driver's Education)
The Corvallis School District traffic education instructors are dedicated to preparing students for the road teaching a comprehensive, classroom curriculum focusing on traffic laws, safety techniques, and essential defensive driving skills. Montana requires this to be done in a minimum of 25 contact days.
The class consists of two components: Classroom Theory and Behind-The-Wheel driving
The classroom theory includes a minimum of 42 hours. Throughout the class portion, students will learn how to develop safe driving habits as well as how to navigate the complexities and responsibilities of operating a motor vehicle. Students must earn an 82% to be successful in the theory portion. Students will earn letter grades (A-F), reported on student transcripts along with .5 credits towards graduation.
The Behind the Wheel (BTW) instruction, consists of 6+ driving hours and 12 hours observing drivers with a certified instructor. Students will follow dedicated BTW guide driving routes, practicing particular skills outlined for each drive session. These guides require parental initials and are part of the final grade.
At the conclusion of all BTW drives, students with a valid learners license will have the opportunity to complete the road test with their driving instructor. 90% of students who successfully pass the road test will have the road test waived at the MVD.
Students interested in registering for a class must be able to attend ALL scheduled classes and commit to attending all scheduled drives. The class fee is $325.
To enroll in a class, contact Laura Fison at the Corvallis High School office @ 406/961-3201 or email at lauraf@csd1.us.
The classes will be filled based on birthdates (oldest first), then by those who respond first.