Improve Your Driving Skills
An Essential Guide for Newer Drivers
Young drivers need a lot of time and practice to develop safe, defensive driving skills as well as confidence behind the wheel. This safety training program is designed to help newer drivers learn and practice safe driving habits.
Eligible drivers can get a State Farm® car insurance discount1 upon completion of the program requirements.
Text STEER to 42407 to get a link to the app today.
Getting Started
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Complete the 5 modules listed below
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Drive at least 5 hours 2
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Take a minimum of 10 trips 2
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Turn in the Trip Log and Statement of Qualification to your agent 2
- Learn More

Module 1: Getting Ready to Drive
We’re here to help you hit the road quickly. But first, let’s go over a few car basics.
Lesson 1: Car Basics
Module 1 - Lesson 1 - Video 1
Welcome to your initial step in learning to drive! The following helpful information will guide your driving career. We’re here to help you hit the road quickly; but first, let’s go over a few car basics.
This video will help you learn about important car parts and safety features. Before you drive, make sure you’re aware of what each indicator light on your car means, such as the fuel indicator, emergency brake and seat belt lights. Know how to properly operate the turn signals, headlights, (including the parking lights and high beams), the windshield wipers (front and back, if you have them), the horn, the emergency brake, the defroster and temperature controls. You’ll also need a good understanding of your vehicle’s safety features and controls. Check to see if your car has newer safety features, and know how to use them.
Knowledge Check
True or False: Many cars have an arrow next to the fuel indicator light to indicate on which side your gas cap can be found.
True or False: Information about a vehicle’s safety features and controls can be found printed inside the driver door.
Module 1 – Lesson 1 – Video 2
Welcome to your initial step in learning to drive! The following helpful information will guide your driving career. We’re here to help you hit the road quickly; but first, let’s go over a few car basics.
This video is part of a series of teen driving safety videos. This one helps to understand regular car maintenance such as checking tire pressure, checking tire treads, oil and transmission fluids, lights, flashers, windshield wipers, and wiper fluid levels.
Lesson 2: Making Adjustments
Module1 – Lesson 2 – Video 1
Being correctly positioned in your car makes it easier to fully concentrate on the task of driving. A common mistake, especially among newer drivers, is to sit too close to the wheel. Let’s go through some quick adjustments to ensure your safety and comfort.
This is a video in a series of videos on teen driving safety. This video explains how to properly adjust the driver's seat in your vehicle.
Knowledge Check
Where should your hands be positioned on a steering wheel; 11 o’clock and 1 o’clock, 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock, or 7 o’clock and 5 o’clock?
True or False: There should be at least 3 inches of space between your back and the seat.
True or False: There should be at least 3 inches of space between your back and the seat.
Module 1 – Lesson 2 – Video 2
Being correctly positioned in your car makes it easier to fully concentrate on the task of driving. A common mistake, especially among newer drivers, is to sit too close to the wheel. Let’s go through some quick adjustments to ensure your safety and comfort.
This video is a video in a series on teen driving safety. This video explains how to properly adjust the steering wheel.
Knowledge Check
True or False: The top of the steering wheel should be no higher than eye level.
True or False: The top of the steering wheel should be no higher than eye level.
Module 1 – Lesson 2 – Video 3
Being correctly positioned in your car makes it easier to fully concentrate on the task of driving. A common mistake, especially among newer drivers, is to sit too close to the wheel. Let’s go through some quick adjustments to ensure your safety and comfort.
This video is a video in a series on teen driving safety. This video shows how to properly adjust your vehicle's mirrors.
Knowledge Check
True or False: Side mirrors help you see what’s going on in front of the car.
True or False: Side mirrors help you see what’s going on in front of the car.
Module 1 – Lesson 2 – Video 4
Being correctly positioned in your car makes it easier to fully concentrate on the task of driving. A common mistake, especially among newer drivers, is to sit too close to the wheel. Let’s go through some quick adjustments to ensure your safety and comfort.
This video is a video in a series on teen driving safety. This video explains how to properly adjust your seat belts.
Knowledge Check
True or False: The driver has responsibility for making sure that all passengers are properly restrained.
The shoulder belt should cross the chest and the lap belt should lay across the stomach.
The shoulder belt should cross the chest and the lap belt should lay across the stomach.
The seat belt can be loosened for comfort if it feels too tight.
The seat belt can be loosened for comfort if it feels too tight.
Module 2: Focus and Distraction
Learn about the most common distractions and how to prevent them.
Lesson 1: Managing Distractions
Module 2 – Lesson 1 – Video 1
Welcome to the next step in learning to drive! This module will focus on distracted driving, its causes, its effects, and ways to manage them.
This video is a video in a series on teen driver safety. This video shows how to manage distractions while driving.
Knowledge Check
Reading a text message while driving at 55 mph is the equivalent of covering the length of (A high school gym; A football field; 4 city blocks; 5 car lengths) while blindfolded.
True or False: Using a hands-free device while driving is substantially safer than using a hand-held device.
Lesson Summary
Before you get in the car, make sure you can devote your full attention to driving. Take care of potential distractions before or after your trip, not while you’re behind the wheel.
Five Ways to Avoid Distraction
1. Turn your phone off, and store it out of reach.
2. Set your navigation / GPS in advance.
3. Have passengers adjust the A/C and radio stations.
4. Keep a calm atmosphere in the car.
5. Pay attention to the road.
Lesson 2: Impaired Driving
Module 2 – Lesson 2 – Video 1
In this lesson, discover the dangers of driving while impaired.
This video is a video in a series on teen driver safety. This video explains the importance of not driving under the influence.
Knowledge Check
Which of the following is impaired when driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs; Short-term memory, Perception, or Information-processing capability?
Module 2 – Lesson 2 – Video 2
In this lesson, discover the dangers of driving while impaired.
This video is a video in a series on teen driver safety. This video discusses the importance of not driving when you are drowsy.
Knowledge Check
True or False? Working the night shift does not affect one’s chances of being involved in a sleep-related crash.
True or False? People can usually tell when they are going to fall asleep.
True or False? People can usually tell when they are going to fall asleep.
True or False? Rolling down a window or singing along with the radio while driving will help keep someone awake.
Lesson Summary
Impaired driving is a nationwide problem, but with awareness and action, we can do our part to help lower the number of accidents that result.
Lesson 3: Scanning for Hazards
Module 2 – Lesson 3 – Video 1
In this lesson, learn to scan your surroundings to view the entire traffic scene as you drive. Discover the dangers of driving while impaired.
This video is in a series of videos on teen driver safety. This video shows how to scan for hazards.
Module 2 – Lesson 3 – Video 2
In this lesson, learn to scan your surroundings to view the entire traffic scene as you drive. Discover the dangers of driving while impaired.
This video is in a series of videos on teen driver safety. This video shows how to scan for hazards.
Knowledge Check
When you sit down in the driver’s seat, which mirrors should you adjust; Right side-view mirror, Left side-view mirror, and/or Rearview mirror?
Can you see an object that’s in your blind spot by the rearview mirror, side view mirror, or turning your head?
When scanning, how far ahead should you look; 2 to 5 seconds, 0 seconds, or 10-15 seconds down the road?
Lesson Summary
Scanning the road will help you easily avoid most hazards. Keep practicing it whenever you drive, and it’ll automatically become part of your safe-driving routine for life.
Module 3: Residential and City Roads
While you can’t control others’ actions, you can manage your own reactions.
Lesson 1: Sharing the Road
Module 3 – Lesson 1 – Video 1
While you can’t control others’ actions, you can manage your own reactions to avoid possible problems on the road. Being courteous, keeping a space cushion around your vehicle, and letting other drivers know your intentions will all keep the roads a little safer. In this lesson, you’ll learn to effectively communicate with other drivers and become more aware of figuring out their intentions.
This video is a video in a series of videos on teen driver safety. This video explains how to communicate with other drivers
Knowledge Check
True or False: When the car next to you starts to veer into your lane on the highway, you should tap your horn.
True or False: The best way to show another driver you want to make a lane change during rush hour on the freeway is to honk your horn.
Module 3 – Lesson 1 – Video 2
While you can’t control others’ actions, you can manage your own reactions to avoid possible problems on the road. Being courteous, keeping a space cushion around your vehicle, and letting other drivers know your intentions will all keep the roads a little safer. In this lesson, you’ll learn to effectively communicate with other drivers and become more aware of figuring out their intentions.
This video is in a series of videos on teen driver safety. This video explains how to anticipate other driver's behaviors.
Knowledge Check
True or False: It is important to give risky drivers extra space around your car.
True or False: It is important to give risky drivers extra space around your car.
True or False: Running a stop sign is a sign of risky driving.
True or False: Running a stop sign is a sign of risky driving.
True or False: Maintaining a proper space cushion while driving will help traffic move smoothly.
True or False: Maintaining a proper space cushion while driving will help traffic move smoothly.
True or False: Checking your mirrors is a way to help stay aware of your surroundings and anticipate the intentions of other drivers.
Lesson 2: Starting, Stopping and Backing Up
Module 3 – Lesson 2 – Video 1
Stopping and starting involves getting used to the feel of the gas and brake pedals, and smoothly transitioning between them. Proper braking and gas control will keep your car under control and provide a more comfortable ride for passengers.
This video is in a series of videos on teen driver safety. This video is on starts and stops.
Knowledge Check
True or False: Good braking technique lowers the chance of getting into a crash?
True or False: Good braking technique lowers the chance of getting into a crash?
True or False: There’s no need to use your emergency brake, except in a true emergency.
True or False: There’s no need to use your emergency brake, except in a true emergency..
Lesson 3: Entering and Exiting Parking Lots
Module 3 – Lesson 3 – Video 1
Entrances and exits of parking lots contain many potential hazards. Let’s go over some basics skills to better prepare you.
This video is in a series of videos on teen driver safety. This video explains the transitions in and out of parking lots
Knowledge Check
True or False: More potential hazards exist when exiting residential driveways than when entering and exiting parking lots.
True or False: A car going into the parking lot is given the right of way.
True or False: A car going into the parking lot is given the right of way.
True or False: Failing to adequately look all around the car when backing up is a common error for all drivers.
True or False: Delaying the turn until the front of your car is almost at the second parking line is the first step in parking your car in a lot.
Lesson 4: Navigating Intersections
Module 3 – Lesson 4 – Video 1
Constant scanning, slower speeds and extra caution when navigating intersections will go a long way toward making the roads safer for all. Let’s take a look at managing intersections with traffic signals and stop signs.
This video is in a series of videos on teen driver safety. This video explains the hazards of residential intersections.
Knowledge Check
True or False: Intersections are one of the most dangerous places for new drivers.
True or False: Intersections are one of the most dangerous places for new drivers.
True or False: The point of no return depends on the speed your car is traveling.
True or False: The point of no return depends on the speed your car is traveling.
Module 3 – Lesson 4 – Video 2
Constant scanning, slower speeds and extra caution when navigating intersections will go a long way toward making the roads safer for all. Let’s take a look at managing intersections with traffic signals and stop signs.
This video is in a series of videos on teen driver safety. This video explains the how to manage busy intersections.
Knowledge Check
True or False: A shared turn lane is a right turn lane that you share with cars coming from the opposite direction
True or False: Cul de sacs are circular intersections in which traffic must travel in one direction around a central island.
Module 4: Highway Driving
Merging onto a busy interstate is one of the more stressful lessons we learn.
Lesson 1: Entering and Exiting Highways
Module 4 – Lesson 1 – Video 1
Merging onto a busy interstate is one of the more stressful lessons we learn in life, and for good reason. It’s a complicated maneuver that requires lots of practice to master. In this lesson, you’ll learn how to safely merge onto a highway, freeway, or toll road.
This video is in a series of videos on teen driving safety. This video explains how to merge onto the highway.
Knowledge Check
True or False: When exiting the highway, you should start slowing down before entering the exit lane or ramp.
True or False: If you need to get into the right lane and are concerned about missing your exit, it’s safest to quickly cut across traffic and exit.
Now that you’re armed with knowledge about merging, we’ll take it a step further and consider how to manage your speed and following distance on highways.
Lesson 2: Managing Speed and Distance
Module 4 – Lesson 2 – Video 1
In this lesson, we’ll discuss best practices for keeping your speed under control and creating the right amount of distance from other vehicles. Taking control of your speed will help you maintain control, travel safely through all road conditions, and follow the law. With experience, you’ll develop a good idea of how fast or slow you’re traveling without constantly relying on your speedometer.
This video is in a series of videos on teen driver safety. This video explains how to manage your speed.
Knowledge Check
True or False: Easing up on the gas pedal makes more efficient use of your fuel.
True or False: Easing up on the gas pedal makes more efficient use of your fuel.
True or False: The speedometer is the only way to see if you need to slow down.
True or False: The speedometer is the only way to see if you need to slow down.
True or False: The name of the technique that helps you manage your speed through the use of the gas and brake pedals is “brake and roll.”
True or False: It is acceptable to use cruise control in heavy traffic.
True or False: It is acceptable to use cruise control in heavy traffic.
Not only is it safe to keep your speed under control, it’s also critical to leave a good amount of room, also known as a space cushion, between your car and others. This will allow you time to react appropriately in emergencies.
Module 4 – Lesson 2 – Video 2
In this lesson, we’ll discuss best practices for keeping your speed under control and creating the right amount of distance from other vehicles. Taking control of your speed will help you maintain control, travel safely through all road conditions, and follow the law. With experience, you’ll develop a good idea of how fast or slow you’re traveling without constantly relying on your speedometer.
This video is in a series of videos on teen driver safety. This video explains how to create a space on all four sides of your vehicle.
Knowledge Check
True or False: Braking too hard or too late is a common error that drivers make when estimating distance.
True or False: The general rule for following distance is to leave 1 second of separation between you and the car ahead for every 10 miles per hour of speed.
True or False: Driving too closely to the car in front of you is called encroaching.
True or False: Driving too closely to the car in front of you is called encroaching.
We hope you’ll remember these essential tips about speed and distance. Managing them both will go a long way toward making the roads safer.
Lesson 3: Maintaining Lane Position
Module 4 – Lesson 3 – Video 1
In this lesson, you’ll learn how to keep your car in the safest spot on the road: the center of the lane in which you’re traveling.
This video is in a series of videos on teen driver safety. This video explains how to maintain lane position.
Knowledge Check
True or False: The safest place to drive within a car lane is the center.
True or False: The safest place to drive within a car lane is the center.
True or False: It’s important to fixate your eyes on the center line when driving.
True or False: It’s important to fixate your eyes on the center line when driving.
Lesson 4: Changing Lanes and Managing Blind Spots
Module 4 – Lesson 4 – Video 1
Learn how to change lanes safely and manage blind spots. Changing lanes can be risky and should only be done when necessary. Let’s go over some quick pointers you’ll need to know before making your next move.
This video is in a series of videos on teen driver safety. This video explains how to change lanes.
Knowledge Check
True or False: On three-lane highways, it is best to stay in the middle lane if possible.
True or False: On three-lane highways, it is best to stay in the middle lane if possible.
True or False: The first step in changing lanes is to build up your speed to match the traffic.
True or False: The first step in changing lanes is to build up your speed to match the traffic.
True or False: When changing lanes, you should be aware of cars and pedestrians visible in your mirrors.
True or False: A common mistake for a new driver is to understeer when they are changing lanes.
True or False: A common mistake for a new driver is to understeer when they are changing lanes.
Module 4 – Lesson 4 – Video 2
Learn how to change lanes safely and manage blind spots. Changing lanes can be risky and should only be done when necessary. Let’s go over some quick pointers you’ll need to know before making your next move.
This video is in a series of videos on teen driver safety. This video explains how to manage blind spots.
Knowledge Check
True or False: Large vehicles, such as trucks and buses, have a larger blind spot than cars.
True or False: Large vehicles, such as trucks and buses, have a larger blind spot than cars.
True or False: If you cannot see the side mirrors of a truck or bus, they cannot see your car.
True or False: If you cannot see the side mirrors of a truck or bus, they cannot see your car.
Module 5: Special Driving Situations
Let’s take a look at some special circumstances and safer ways to drive in them.
Lesson 1: Driving at Night
Module 5 – Lesson 1 – Video 1
In this lesson, we’ll discuss strategies for safe driving at night. Many new drivers spend a great deal of time driving in darkness, yet many are unaware of specific strategies for safe night driving. While driving at night may not seem much different than driving during the day, there are important differences to keep in mind.
This video is in a series of videos on teen driver safety. This video explains how to drive at night.
Knowledge Check
True or False: Many states prohibit solo driving at night if you have an intermediate or restricted license.
The crash rate for driving at night is ______ that of driving during the day. A) Higher than. B) Lower than. C) Equal to.
Lesson Conclusion
By remembering all of the tips you’ve learned here, you’ll be well on your way to taking on the night.
Lesson 2: Driving in Bad Weather
Module 5 – Lesson 2 – Video 1
In this lesson, we’ll discuss safety measures for driving in difficult weather conditions. Being behind the wheel in treacherous weather doesn't have to be a white-knuckled, nerve-racking experience. Our tips will help you gain confidence when taking on life’s storms.
This video is in a series of videos on teen driver safety. This video explains how to drive in bad weather.
Knowledge Check
True or False: The primary danger of hydroplaning is that your car can slide uncontrollably.
True or False: The primary danger of hydroplaning is that your car can slide uncontrollably.
What’s the best way to defog a front windshield? A) Turn on your windshield wipers. B) Turn on your defogger and air conditioner. C) Turn on your heater.
Lesson Summary
Now that you know how to drive in many types of weather conditions, think hard about if it’s worth making that trip at all. It’s always better to be safe, than sorry.
Lesson 3: Driving in Rural Areas
Module 5 – Lesson 3 – Video 1
In this lesson, we’ll discuss driving tips specific to rural situations. Driving on rural roads may leave you feeling safe and relaxed, but country roads present a unique set of hazards that you typically don’t have to worry about elsewhere. After all, how likely is it you’ll encounter a farm vehicle or livestock on a city street?
This video is in a series of videos on teen driver safety. This video explains how to drive in rural areas.
Knowledge Check
True or False: It’s a good idea to give yourself a wider space cushion on country roads.
True or False: It’s a good idea to give yourself a wider space cushion on country roads.
True or False: When driving on a rural road, you should never use your high-beam lights.
True or False: When driving on a rural road, you should never use your high-beam lights.
Lesson Summary
Awareness is the most important thing to keep in mind when driving on country roads. This, coupled with smart speed management, will ensure your safety and the safety of other drivers.
Lesson 4: Handling Emergencies
Module 5 – Lesson 4 – Video 1
Here, we’ll discuss what to do when the unexpected happens while driving. One thing for certain that can be said about car emergencies: they happen when you least expect them. Thinking about what you’d do in case of car trouble or an emergency can be stressful. But armed with knowledge and you’ll have the confidence to take on a nerve-wracking situation should one occur.
This video is in a series of videos on teen driver safety. This video explains how to handle emergency vehicles.
It’s important to know how to handle the unexpected while driving. You need to know what to do if you encounter an emergency vehicle or your car breaks down.
Knowledge Check
What should you do if an emergency vehicle is approaching you from behind? A) Speed up and try to move far away from it. B) Immediately slow down, and cautiously pull over to the right side of the road. C) Quickly slow down, and stop right where you are.
True or False: All state laws regarding yielding for emergency vehicles are the same.
True or False: All state laws regarding yielding for emergency vehicles are the same.
Module 5 – Lesson 4 – Video 2
Here, we’ll discuss what to do when the unexpected happens while driving. One thing for certain that can be said about car emergencies: they happen when you least expect them. Thinking about what you’d do in case of car trouble or an emergency can be stressful. But armed with knowledge and you’ll have the confidence to take on a nerve-wracking situation should one occur.
This video is in a series of videos on teen driver safety. This video explains how to handle collisions.
Knowledge Check
True or False: After an accident, never tell anyone that the accident was your fault, even if you think it was.
True or False: You can start the claims process right after the accident and add details later.
True or False: You can start the claims process right after the accident and add details later.
Lesson Summary
You can’t predict when a crash will occur, but hopefully now you’ll be more prepared. Quick thinking, and knowledge, can help minimize risk and maximize your safety.
Modules Complete: Next Steps
- 1. Log each of your trips in the Trip Log
- 2. Sign the Statement of Qualification
- 3. Turn in the Trip Log and Statement of Qualification to your agent
Looking for More Teen Safe Driving Tips?
1 Discount names, percentages, availability and eligibility may vary by state. California customers may be eligible for the Inexperienced Driver Safety Education discount.
2 Not required in California
Disclosures and disclaimers
Please remember that the preceding descriptions contain only a general description of available coverages and are not a statement of contract. All coverages are subject to all policy provisions and applicable endorsements. Coverage options may vary by state. To learn more about auto insurance coverage in your state, find a State Farm agent. Steer Clear Safe Driver Discount is not available in every state. For additional information, please contact your State Farm® agent.
The information in this article was obtained from various sources not associated with State Farm®. While we believe it to be reliable and accurate, we do not warrant the accuracy or reliability of the information. These suggestions are not a complete list of every loss control measure. The information is not intended to replace manuals or instructions provided by the manufacturer or the advice of a qualified professional. Nor is it intended to effect coverage under our policy. State Farm® makes no guarantees of results from use of this information.
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Bloomington, IL
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Richardson, TX