Taught not Trained

One of the most overlooked challenges that teen drivers face today is not necessarily distractions or peer pressure; it’s the way we are taught to drive in the first place. From my own personal experience, being taught by two parents with completely different driving styles made learning to drive more confusing than helpful. Both of my parents are from Generation X, a generation shaped by traditional systems like cursive in classrooms, religion in schools, and driver’s ed as part of the high school curriculum. Their go-to phrase whenever something feels out of order is, “This generation is just different.” But I believe much of that “difference” is not the fault of Gen Z; it’s the result of how we were raised and the evolving world around us, including how we’re introduced to driving.

Many teens today are taught by their parents or other adults instead of through a standardized curriculum. While well-intentioned, this can be where the challenge starts. Driving becomes subjective and inconsistent, at least in my experience. One parent may insist that driving five miles under the speed limit is safest, while another believes in going exactly seven miles over. One might prioritize aggressive lane changes and assertiveness, while another teaches a more cautious, defensive approach. These inconsistencies don’t just confuse new drivers; they can create unsafe habits that can carry into adulthood. Unlike previous generations who had mandated and standardized Driver’s Ed courses in school, many teens today are forced to rely on outdated techniques passed down from relatives or on self-guided online driving courses. As a result, there’s no shared language on the road anymore. In the past, everyone followed the same set of written and unwritten rules. Today, driving has become much more individualistic and unpredictable. This is especially dangerous for teen drivers who are still building confidence and skill behind the wheel.

The driving environment also varies greatly depending on where you grow up. Growing up in Atlanta, where navigating heavy traffic, pedestrians, and aggressive drivers is a daily norm. Compared to my mother, who grew up in rural areas of Mississippi, drives slower, and is less comfortable in high-pressure environments like city intersections or congested highways. These regional differences further affect the way we drive and make it hard to apply any one-size-fits-all approach to teaching new drivers. What makes this issue even more serious is the lack of practical driving experience available to teens before they’re on the road independently. Many students must balance school, work, and extracurricular activities, leaving little time for formal practice. On top of that, the rising costs of private driving lessons and insurance discourage families from investing in thorough driving education. As a result, teens often receive minimal preparation before being expected to operate a vehicle responsibly.

So, how can teen drivers overcome these challenges? First, we need a return to structured, consistent education. Schools should reintroduce accessible, state-funded Driver’s Ed courses, especially in public high schools. These programs should not only cover the technical aspects of driving but also the emotional and psychological aspects, how to manage road rage, handle peer pressure, and avoid digital distractions like texting or using social media while driving. Secondly, technology can be a powerful tool when used correctly. Driving simulators, mobile safety apps, and dashboard monitors can help teens practice and track safe driving behaviors. These tools can fill in gaps when formal instruction isn’t available. Apps like Life360, for example, give parents a way to monitor their teen’s driving without being in the passenger seat, and in-car telematics systems can provide real-time feedback. Third, we need to change the conversation around driving in our homes. Parents must recognize that their driving habits, both good and bad, are being observed and adopted. Instead of saying “Do as I say, not as I do,” parents should model safe, respectful behavior behind the wheel. Even simple things like using turn signals, obeying speed limits, and avoiding aggressive reactions to traffic situations go a long way in teaching responsibility. Lastly, teen drivers themselves must understand that driving is not just a milestone; it’s a responsibility. While it may feel like freedom, every trip behind the wheel involves serious risk. Building good habits early, staying aware of your surroundings, and resisting the temptation to follow what “everyone else is doing” are essential to staying safe.

In conclusion, while peer pressure and distractions are certainly real challenges, one of the most overlooked and impactful issues facing teen drivers is inconsistent instruction and a lack of standardized education. By addressing how we’re taught to drive and how our environments shape that process, we can better prepare young drivers for the road ahead. With the right support, tools, and mindset, teen drivers can become not just competent, but confident and responsible individuals behind the wheel.