Driver training school facility and vehicle standards

Facilities

Driver training school locations must follow specific guidelines. They must:

  • Be located in a business or commercial zone or area suitable for educational institutions.
  • Be more than 1000 feet from an office or building owned or leased by the Department of Licensing.
  • Be used only for driver instruction during operational hours.
  • Not consist of or include a:
    • House.
    • Tent.
    • Temporary address.
    • Room or rooms in a hotel or rooming house or apartment house.
    • Premises occupied by a single or multiple-unit dwelling house.

Driver training school classrooms have extra requirements:

  • Proper equipment.
  • Separate classroom and office spaces.
  • Adequate seating and desk space for all students.
  • Must meet city fire codes.

State law defines classroom instruction as in-person or live virtual lessons following the required curriculum. We must approve any self-paced online parts of your instruction.

Download a classroom checklist to help you get started.

Traffic safety education vehicles

Vehicles used for driver training must meet safety standards, including:

  • Dual controls for the foot brake and clutch.
  • Instructor’s rearview mirror.
  • A first aid kit with at least 20 pieces, including:
    • A fully charged fire extinguisher.
    • An emergency strobe light, reflective triangle, or two 18-inch cones.
  • A sign on the back or top of the vehicle, meeting the following requirements:
    • Clear English letters at least 20 inches wide and 10 inches tall.
    • The words “Student Driver,” “Instruction Car,” or “Driving School” in letters at least 2.5 inches tall.
    • The school’s name and phone number in letters at least 1 inch tall.
    • Signs must be visible from 100 feet away in daylight.
    • Signs must not block the driver's view if placed on the rear windshield.

You must complete annual vehicle inspections. You must repair any vehicles that fail inspection before use. Download a vehicle inspection report to help you get started.

Related laws and rules

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