Driving lessons cost $50 to $150 per hour, on average, for private on-the-road lessons, while classroom training costs less. Some schools or instructors offer packages with 4 or more lessons at a lower price. Discounts may be offered for taking lessons during off-peak hours on weekday mornings instead of high-demand evenings or weekends.

The number of driving lessons you need depends on your learning style, driving experience, and time spent practicing between lessons. If you learn best by watching or listening, you may want to start with classroom lessons. If you learn best by doing, you might prefer to take private on-road lessons right from the start. Whichever lessons you decide on, the more you practice, the more confident of a driver you will become.

Driving lessons typically last for 1 to 2 hours. Some driving schools offer intensive driving courses that last for 3 or 4 hours per day spread over several days. The length of the lesson is not as important as the quality of instruction and the experience of the instructor. A good driving teacher should tailor the length and frequency of lessons to your individual needs and abilities.

Yes, in most cases driving lessons can lower your insurance rates. Drivers who complete a driving course are viewed as more serious about safety and less risky to insure. Since driving courses are not all created equal, be sure to check with your insurance provider to see if they offer discounts for completing a particular course.

If you have an accident during a driving lesson, don't panic. Stay calm and follow the driving teacher's instructions. They will contact emergency services and take steps to ensure the safety of everyone involved. Since most lessons are covered by the school's insurance policy, they will likely take care of filing any insurance claims.

To prepare for your first driving lesson, you must first get a learner's permit. The restricted license confirms you understand the rules of the road and allows you to drive with the supervision of a licensed driver. Follow these additional tips for a more enjoyable learning experience:

• Watch some educational driving videos to be more familiar with driving basics.
• Practice driving in an empty parking lot with a licensed driver to get familiar with the car and controls.
• Don't be afraid to make mistakes, just stay calm and keep practicing.
• Don't be embarrassed to ask questions.
• Don't get discouraged, driving can be a lot of fun, but it does take practice.
• Leave your cell phone off and stowed away. Distracted driving is dangerous for even the most skilled driver.

Some driving schools allow you to take driving lessons in your own car if the car is insured and meets all of the state's safety standards. The car must have a working horn, brake lights, turn signals, and headlights to be considered safe for driving.

Other schools may require you to use their vehicles that are equipped with safety features such as dual controls that allow the instructor to hit the brakes or take control of the steering wheel if necessary.

Whether or not you need car insurance to take driving lessons depends on the regulations in your state and the policies of the driving school or instructor. Most reputable driving schools or instructors carry their own insurance policy that covers their students during lessons. Check with your state's DMV and the driving school to make sure you have the proper coverage before your first lesson.

The minimum age to take driving lessons varies by state. In most states, you can start taking lessons when you have a learner's permit at age 15. Some states have a higher minimum age, such as New York where you must be 16 years old.

Quality driving lessons can ensure you have the skills you need for your safety, the safety of your passengers, and everyone else on the road. Finding the right driving school that offers the best training is an important decision. Follow these suggestions when choosing a driving school near you:

• Compare schools or private instructors that fit your budget and schedule for learning to drive.
• Don't look at price only; choose instructors who are highly qualified and experienced.
• Visit the driving school to make sure you are comfortable with the school, staff, and vehicles.
• Ask for references. Contacting previous students can help you feel confident in your decision.

There are plenty of driving schools to choose from on Lessons.com, so asking these important questions can help you narrow down the choices:

• What are your qualifications?
• What are your hourly rates? Do you offer package discounts for multiple lessons?
• What are your lesson times and locations?
• What kind of cars do you use?
• Can I use my own car?
• What is your pass rate for passing the driver's license exam?
• Do you offer a guarantee that I will pass on my first try?