Driver Education Initiative Award – Annual Scholarship Opportunity
National Driving and Traffic School is proud to announce their 2024 scholarship opportunity, entitled “In the Driver’s Seat.” The company is seeking to reward essay applicants $10,000 in scholarships- for students entering college or already enrolled in a higher education institution – on the topic of being a safer driver.
Driver Education Initiative 2024: In the Driver’s Seat
The Topic of this year’s essay submissions deals with the serious implications of being a driver. In America, an average of 34,000 people die each year as a result of driving. This is more people who have died in one year as a result of driving, than the total number of American soldiers who have died from war in Iraq and Afghanistan combined. The total number of Americans who die within the span of two years as a result of driving is more than the total number of American deaths from the Vietnam war. This is to say, driving is more dangerous and deadly for our nation than being involved in combat, and highlights the serious consequences of being negligent on the road.
Courtesy: NHTSA, Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_military_casualties_of_war
Many drivers are not aware of these startling and very scary facts, especially newer drivers. The essay contest “In The Driver’s Seat” seeks to have applicants highlight the importance of being a safe and educated driver. This scholarship seeks to reward six students for his or her submission dealing with the importance of being a safe and educated driver. The application is handled in essay format. To apply, submit an essay of no less than 750 words in Microsoft Word format addressing the following questions:
Questions to be answered in your Essay/Application
- What is the importance of driver education in reducing the number deaths as a result of driving?
- What steps can be taken to reduce the number of deaths related to driving?
- Have you ever had an experience of being in car accident or have seen your friends or family members driving irresponsibly?
- What steps can you take to be a better and safer driver as well as help others become safer on the road?
This is an annual scholarship program.
2024 Drivers Education
Apply for the 2024 Drivers Ed Online Contest Round 2
Submission Details
Applicants must be currently enrolled in either High School, University or College. Employees and relatives of National Driving and Traffic School are ineligible. There will be three contest submission dates. To be eligible for the contest submit your essay by one of the submission dates.
- Round 1: January 3rd 2024 – March 31st
Winners: Announced May 3rd - Round 2: Accepting entries May 3rd – August 1st.
Announced September 1st - Round 3: Accepting entries September 1st – November 30th.
Announced 1/2/25
* Please note, to limit the number of entries, the minimum word requirement for the essay submissions is 750 words. Entries not meeting the minimum word requirement will not be posted.
Along with your submission please include a picture of yourself which we can post on our site to go along with your essay
The winner will be required to provide proof of successful acceptance to a Higher Institute of Learning, College or University. Payment will be made directly to the applicant’s college. If you have additional questions, please contact us. This contest is open to all students in U.S., Canada, and abroad.
2 winners are chosen for each contest: staff favorite, and most voted for. Vote tallies end on the date of the contest deadline. We award a prize of $500 to each winner every contest.
- Previous winners may not reapply.
- Due to the use of AI, we will be favoring more personal essays written from experience.
- For the most shared essay, shares are counted by the number of people who share your post on their Facebook Page. Share counts stop on the day of the contest submission deadline.
- Please note that, by joining the contest, you consent to the publication of your essay on our website.
Previous Contest Winner Announcements
- Spring 2024 Winners
- Fall 2023 Winners
- Summer 2023 Winners
- Spring 2023 Winners
- Fall 2022 Winners
- Sumer 2022 Winners
- Spring 2022 Winners
- Fall 2021 Winners
- Summer 2021 Winners
- Winter 2021 Winners
- Fall 2020 Winners
- Summer 2020 Winners
- Spring 2020 Winners
- Fall 2019 Winners
- Spring 2019 Winners
- Summer 2019 Winners
- Spring 2019 Winners
- Winter 2018 Winners
- Summer 2018 Winners
Previous Contests
- Spring 2024 Contest
- Fall 2023 Contest
- Summer 2023 Contest
- Spring 2023 Contest
- Fall 2023 Contest
- Summer 2022 Contest
- Spring 2022 Contest
- Fall 2021 Contest
- Summer 2021 Contest
- Winter 2021 Contest
- Fall 2020 Contest
- Spring 2020 Contest
- Fall 2019 Contest
- Summer 2019 Contest
- Spring 2019 Contest
- Scholarship articles archive
2024 Drivers Ed Essays Gallery – Round 2
by Jenna Goedken
![](https://www.dmvedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Jenna-Goedken-2mb-200x300.jpg)
Why I feel drivers education is important for all. Especially in emergency situations.
by Kamilyann Yanil Rodriguez Camacho
This essay explores the critical importance of driver education in reducing traffic-related deaths. It discusses effective steps to enhance road safety and shares personal experiences to highlight the consequences of irresponsible driving. The essay also outlines proactive measures individuals can take to become safer drivers and influence others to practice safe driving habits.
by Christina Dodson
![](https://www.dmvedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/facebook_1719627073021_7212638710881667918-300x300.jpg)
The importance of driver's education and why.
by Peter Dogbegah
![](https://www.dmvedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/IMG-20220809-WA0001-300x300.jpg)
The importance of driving education and the steps to reduce driving related deaths
by Cassidy Garibaldo
![](https://www.dmvedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/20240320_174538-225x300.jpg)
In this essay, I recount my own experiences with inadequate driver preparedness and how I believe education about how to be safe on the road could have helped.
by Addison Maywald
![](https://www.dmvedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/99B1993A-AA9F-4421-A8FB-85BA1DD2A209-225x300.jpg)
This essay is about how student drivers need to take more time to understand the guidelines for driving. It is also about how current drivers must take more time when going from location to location so that they can drive more defensively.
by Jeamediateri (Medi) Rivuzimana
![](https://www.dmvedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_4833_Original-2-181x300.jpg)
No fatalities is an essay that shares shocking statistics, firsthand experiences and steps that can be taken to reduce motor-vehicle fatalities. This essay brings in different perspectives on driver's education. The essay concludes with a shocking claim that will convince all readers to take drivers education.
by Kerry-Ann Forbes
![](https://www.dmvedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/92773B41-128A-43BA-9CA9-967A179DDE92-202x300.jpeg)
This essay explores the critical role of driver education in reducing traffic-related fatalities and suggests practical steps to enhance road safety. Drawing from personal experiences and emphasizing the importance of responsible driving, it highlights how education, awareness, and proactive measures can significantly decrease the number of deaths caused by driving.
by Jamar Thomas
![](https://www.dmvedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/20220520_113801-225x300.jpg)
This essay focuses on the importance of driving safely on the road. Driving safely is a big step towards creating a safer city.
by Lucy Bonolo-Cohen
![](https://www.dmvedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Lucy_ASU_ID-226x300.jpg)
Driver education is very important for making roads safer and reducing car accident deaths. It teaches people how to drive safely, follow traffic laws, and be aware of other drivers. To make roads safer, we need good driving lessons, strict traffic laws, better car safety features, improved roads, public safety campaigns, and quick emergency responses. Losing my cousin Nicholas in an accident showed me the importance of safe driving. By learning and practicing safe driving, we can save lives.
by Natalie Boyd
![](https://www.dmvedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/IMG_2004-300x200.jpeg)
Personal experience in an almost tragic car accident and easy ways to raise awareness for the dangers of driving and how easy it is to lulled into a false sense security while driving. Practical tips on how to stay safe and keep others on road safe too.
by Khantirava Venkat Laxman Kumar Pinnaka
![](https://www.dmvedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/WIN_20240718_08_54_20_Pro-300x169.jpg)
Firstly, driver education equips new drivers with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the road. It goes beyond simply learning the mechanics of operating a vehicle. Comprehensive driver education programs should encompass a thorough understanding of traffic laws and regulations. This includes knowledge of road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices in various weather conditions. However, driver education is just one piece of the puzzle. To further reduce road deaths, a multi-pronged approach is necessary. One crucial step is implementing stricter enforcement of traffic laws. This includes cracking down on speeding, distracted driving (including texting and using mobile phones), and driving under the influence. Increased police presence on the roads serves as a deterrent to reckless behavior and reinforces the importance of responsible driving. On a personal note, while I have not experienced a car accident, I have witnessed friends engaging in irresponsible driving behaviors. These experiences serve as stark reminders of the potential risks associated with careless driving. Observing the impact of such behavior can motivate individuals to prioritize safety, both for themselves and others on the road. To become a better and safer driver, there are several steps one can take. Firstly, practicing defensive driving is crucial. This means remaining vigilant, keeping a safe distance from other vehicles, and avoiding distractions such as mobile phone use. Regular vehicle maintenance is also essential to ensure that the car is in good working condition. Furthermore, adhering to speed limits and adjusting driving behavior according to weather conditions can greatly enhance safety.
by Kamryn Nero
![](https://www.dmvedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/1721451664Kamryn-Nero-262x300.png)
Irresponsible drivers take lives every day. It is our responsibility as drivers to do at most the minimum required educating needed to safely drive on the road.
by Hilary Zivai Prisca Chikuvira
![](https://www.dmvedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/IMG-20200210-WA0009-225x300.jpg)
This essay is a short story about when l witnessed a gruesome accident and how the horrific experience has led me to be extra careful on the road.
by JACOB DANIEL HOLMES
![](https://www.dmvedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/1719515247JACOB-D-HOLMES-PIC-200x300.jpg)
Educate your children on distractive driving. It starts at home.
by Kaiya Carter
This essay answers the prompt questions in precise detail with my personal experience to the best of my knowledge.
by Onyedire Onyinye Love
![](https://www.dmvedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/IMG_20240617_131033_1333-224x300.jpg)
Driver education is crucial in reducing driving-related deaths as it equips drivers with essential knowledge and skills. Proper education teaches defensive driving techniques, the importance of obeying traffic laws, and the risks of impaired or distracted driving. It also promotes awareness of vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists.
by Zavier Martinez
![](https://www.dmvedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/97641280_byps785rlc-SBKGD01-240x300.jpg)
Discusses the responsibilities and dangers of driving an automobile, specific scenarios of the dangers and how to become a responsible driver.
by Lea Machado
![](https://www.dmvedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Screenshot-2024-07-19-at-12.43.04PM-287x300.png)
This essay explains the critical importance of driver education in promoting safe roads and reducing car accidents. Additionally, it highlights how driver education equips individuals with important knowledge, skills, and attitudes for safe driving practices, including defensive driving, traffic rules, and responsible behavior. It includes my personal experience when being a passenger and becoming a future driver. Although I haven't experienced a car crash, I've seen multiple car crashes in front of my eyes due to speeding or competition with others. Therefore, this is an overall message to encourage drivers and future drivers to continuously learn and be responsible drivers to ensure roads are safe and protect our lives and other lives in the future.
by Reginald Black
![](https://www.dmvedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_7270-225x300.jpg)
This Essay is about my brother who was in a car accident that changed the trajectory of life in general
by Makenzie Hamilton
![](https://www.dmvedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Makenzie-105x300.jpg)
This essay views the benefits provided from the necessary role of driver education. Also, this essay evaluates the features of society that contribute to the continuation of reckless driving. Another purpose of the essay is to describe the steps that need to be taken to prevent the amount of deaths from driving.
by Madison Ring
![](https://www.dmvedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_5203-1-300x200.jpg)
This essay is about the dangers of driving without your car being in the proper condition, leading to distraught families and car crashes. The goal of this essay is to bring awareness to the impact that crashes can have on families and the preventative measures that are needed to be taken to stop distracted driving.
by Bailey McFadden
![](https://www.dmvedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Photo-225x300.jpeg)
The idea that educated drivers are better at driving is not a difficult concept to grasp. The difficulty comes when you try to implement that education - who is going to do the outreach work? How will you incentivize people to sign up for this education, or otherwise make mandatory education effective? And who, in this busy world, has time to be educated on something that they already know how to do? Sometimes difficult questions have simple solutions if you think outside of the box. Because of the Dunning-Kruger curve in human psychology, the only thing you need to educate people on is their own limitations. After they know that, they’ll make the roads safer themselves.
by Samantha Valdez
![](https://www.dmvedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_0342-169x300.jpg)
My essay recounts a distressing experience with a reckless driver who believed she was fleeing from aliens, leading to a life-changing car accident. It demonstrates the PTSD left in victims, the importance of driver education, shares steps to reduce driving-related deaths, and emphasizes personal accountability on the road. Through advocacy and awareness, I hope to make roads safe for all.
by Sienna Riley McCal
![](https://www.dmvedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Sienna-1058-200x300.jpg)
My driving journey and how I learned to be an advocate of driver education and following the rules of the road.
by Shelton Bumhe
![](https://www.dmvedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/IMG_1522-225x300.jpeg)
This essay will discuss various strategies to reduce driving-related deaths. It will cover the importance of implementing stricter traffic laws, enhancing road safety features, and promoting public awareness campaigns. Additionally, the essay will explore the role of technology, such as advanced driver assistance, and autonomous vehicles, in minimizing accidents. Finally, it will address the need for an improved emergency response system and better driver driver education programs to ensure safer practices
by Zaroo Mulk
![](https://www.dmvedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/IMG_8353-169x300.jpg)
The essay is about driver education and reducing car accidents and death rates.
by Destiney Ligon
![](https://www.dmvedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/240237749-169x300.jpg)
"Be Smart, Drive Safe" is a short and sweet, but impactful message that emphasizes the importance of using intelligence and caution while driving. Being smart means to prepare yourself mentally and physically for your drive ahead and make decisions that prioritize safety and using our best judgements while we drive.