Q&A: Ohio Drivers Ed Online: Why More Families Are Making the Switch

Over the past few years, thousands of Ohio families have turned to our state-approved online Ohio drivers ed course to meet the state’s requirements on their schedule. The verdict? It's a game-changer.

Here's a fresh look at why online drivers ed continues to be the preferred choice for teens and their families across the Buckeye State:

"DriversEd.com gave my daughter the freedom to learn on her own time, and gave me peace of mind knowing it was state-approved. Scheduling our in-car lessons locally was a breeze!" — Jennifer M., Columbus

"I loved being involved in the supervised driving practice without having to manage the whole curriculum. This course made the whole process smoother for our family." — Carlos R., Cincinnati

Q: What’s the difference between drivers education and in-car training?

A: Drivers education teaches you the rules of the road, vehicle safety, and everything you need to pass your written permit test. In-car training is the behind-the-wheel driving instruction you receive from a licensed instructor.

If you’re under 21 and applying for your first Ohio drivers license, you’ll need to complete:

• 24 hours of drivers education

• 8 hours of in-car lessons with a licensed instructor

• 50 hours of supervised driving (10 of those at night) with a parent or guardian

Our online course helps you complete those 24 hours from the comfort of home—on your own time.

Parent tip: Set weekly goals with your teen to keep progress on track while letting them take ownership of their learning.

Learn more about the full drivers ed requirements in OhioDrivers Ed.aspx Ohio

Q: What are my options for drivers education?

A: Since Ohio began allowing online courses, more and more students have embraced the flexibility and independence it offers. DriversEd.com is one of the state-approved providers delivering this course with a trusted, proven track record.

You still have the option to take a traditional classroom course, but with our online program, you're in control of when and where you learn.

Q: If I take Ohio drivers education online, how do I take in-car lessons?

 A:  It’s simple: you can pick any local driving school for your in-car driving lessons!

Q: How do I handle the in-car driving lessons?

A: Once you complete the online course, you're free to choose any local Ohio driving school for your in-car training. This gives you the freedom to schedule lessons that fit your routine.

Find tips on choosing a driving school in your areaHow To Choose Driving School Blog

Q: Is online drivers education as effective as in-person classes?

A: Definitely. Online learning has been shown to be just as effective as classroom instruction. A 2011 study from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles found our courses helped reduce DUIs and traffic violations.

And because our Ohio course was carefully reviewed and approved by the Department of Public Safety, you get the same high standards—with unmatched convenience.

Pro Parent Move: Ask your teen to quiz you on the course content to help them reinforce what they’re learning.

Explore our study tools and permit test prep resourcesTeen Drivers

Q: Why are more Ohio teens choosing online drivers ed?

A: Flexibility is key. Between school, sports, and other commitments, teens today need an option that works with their lives. With online learning, they can progress at their own pace and never miss a requirement.

More flexibility means more students completing drivers ed—and becoming safer, more confident drivers.

Q: What does this mean for local driving schools?

A: It's good news. Online drivers ed doesn’t replace in-car training—it complements it. Every student still needs to complete 8 hours of behind-the-wheel lessons, which means more students for local schools.

By making the education portion easier to access, we’ve helped drive more demand for local instructors.

See how online learning and in-person training work togetherOnline Vs Inperson.