Teens and parents can find information and resources on how to improve driving safety.
Before you get started
Did you know?
- Car crashes are the leading cause of death and injury for teens in Washington.
- Most of these crashes are caused by teens who are distracted, speeding, or impaired by drugs or alcohol.
- Parents and teens can do a lot to reduce the chances of being in a car crash.
How to reduce distracted driving
Having your eyes off the road for even a few seconds can change lives forever. New drivers with instruction permits or intermediate licenses can't use any wireless device, even those that are hands-free, while operating a vehicle. The only exception is if you're reporting an emergency.
Learn more about distracted driving
- Distracted driving can kill
Facts about distracted driving in Washington. - CDC Distracted Driving
National statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on distracted driving and how the government is working to prevent it. - National Safety Council Online Distracted Driving Course
90-minute or abridged 45-minute online course about the science of distracted driving, myths about multitasking, legal and financial consequences, and state and federal laws. Includes real-life driving scenarios and incident evaluations. - It Can Wait Music Video
Partners for Safe Teen Driving and American Idol-finalist Travis Tucker highlight the dangers of texting and driving. - Target Zero
Washington Traffic Safety Commission's strategic plan for zero deaths and zero serious injuries by 2030.
Safe driving resources
Practice safe driving
- Washington Driver Guide
Laws, rules, and techniques for safe driving. Available in 7 languages. - Safe-Driving Agreement
Parents and teen can establish a contract for safe-driving practices.
For teens
- Teen Driver Source
Research-based tools for improving teen driver safety from The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute. - Getting a license for teens age 16-17
Step-by-step guide on how to get a license and special rules and restrictions for teen drivers.
For parents
- Partners for Safe Teen Driving: For Parents
Learn how you can reinforce good driving and decision making skills that will lead to safe driving habits. - Driver training programs
Tips for choosing a driver training program and finding scholarships. - AAA's teen driver safety tips for parents
- The Parent's Supervised Driving Program (English)
- The Parent's Supervised Driving Program (Español)
CDC's Parents are the Key campaign
The main cause of fatal teen driver accidents is inexperience. Parents and guardians who want to play a role in their teen's driver safety can find information, tools, and free materials.
- Parents are the Key
- Pediatricians and Safe Teen Driving
Materials specifically designed for pediatricians developed in partnership with the American Academy of Pediatrics.
