Road Driving

The road driving portion of the Driver Education program is the final step before students are eligible to take the driving test to obtain their license. This portion is designed to ensure students are competent drivers in a variety of environments, including:

• City Driving

• Residential Driving

• Freeway and Highway Driving

• Canyon Driving

During these drives, students will further refine their driving skills and practice maneuvers in real-world scenarios.  To successfully pass the drives, students must demonstrate proficiency in each of the previously mentioned driving environments. Proficiency does not require perfection; rather, it means that students must show they understand and can follow the rules of the road, respond appropriately to various driving conditions, and refrain from exhibiting dangerous or aggressive behaviors.  Each session lasts 1 to 3 hours, with one student driving while the other observes from the backseat, switching roles every 45 to 60 minutes. 

Program Requirements and Policies

• Prerequisites: Students must complete all theory requirements and the driving range portion of the program before participating in road driving sessions.   

• Students may "fail" their road drive if the instructor determines they have not reached a minimally proficient level of skill on the roadway. In such cases, students will not be permitted to drive with an instructor again, including the final road test, until they have gained additional practice with their parents or guardians. To ensure readiness, it is strongly recommended that students have completed a significant portion of their required 40 hours of driving practice with their parents or guardians before participating in road drives. We suggest a minimum of 25 hours of practice with a parent or guardian prior to signing up for this portion of the program. 

• Attendance: With over 500 sophomores enrolled in Driver Education at West Field High School this year, it is critical that students show up for their assigned driving times. Missing a session does not guarantee placement in the next available slot, as priority will be given to the next student waiting.

• Group Driving Requirement: State law prohibits one-on-one driving instruction. Each session must have at least two students. Missing an assigned time inconveniences not only the instructor but also your fellow student drivers.

• Permit Requirement: Students must bring their physical learner’s permit to every road driving session and the road test. A picture or copy of the permit is not sufficient.

This is the final portion of the Driver Education program. Students must complete all road driving hours to qualify for the driving test and receive their license. Timeliness, preparedness, and active participation in both driving and observing are crucial to ensure smooth operation and progress through the program.