Behind-The-Wheel Instruction
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Students become eligible for Behind-The-Wheel (BTW) instruction after completion of the online driver education course, passing the final exam and completion of vision screening.
- UCPS students will complete BTW instruction at their assigned school.
- Charter, homeschool and private school students will complete BTW instruction through Union Academy.
What is Behind-the-Wheel instruction?
- 12 hours in length; six as a driver and six as a passenger.
- There will be two students in the car at all times.
- Driving experience will progress from the parking lot, to rural roads to city and highway driving.
Frequently Asked Questions
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When will my child be called for BTW instruction?
Students are called for BTW based on when vision screening was completed (example: October vision screened students will be called before those who completed vision screening in November). From there, the oldest students by birth date will be called first. To contact the lead instructor at your assigned high school, please visit the UCPS Driver Education Contacts page for that information.
Currently there is a 2-3 month wait for BTW instruction.
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When does BTW instruction occur?
BTW instruction may take place on any day except Sundays and on federal holidays. Instruction for a set of student drivers lasts for two to three hours. On school days, instruction typically begins after school ends for the day. Families/students must arrange transportation to and from their BTW sessions. If students are unable to be delivered or picked up at the proper time, then the student may not be allowed to take BTW instruction. We do take into consideration that emergencies do occur, but do not allow emergencies to become habitual.
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What if my student is not available when called for BTW instruction?
Please let the instructor know at that time when your child will become available to complete BTW instruction.
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Can I do BTW with someone specific?
Yes, if the two students attend the same school. You will need to contact the lead instructor at your designated school. If the students attended vision screening in different months, this will not move you up the queue ahead of other students.
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What happens when BTW instruction is completed?
Your student will be given the Driver Education completion form verifying completion of the Driver Education program. This paperwork will be needed when the parent requests a Driver Eligibility Certificate and when the student goes to the DMV for their learner permit.
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Can a student take BTW instruction at a private driving school?
Yes, but it is at your own expense. Private driving schools provide both classroom and BTW instruction. However, it is also possible to take the online class through the school system and then receive BTW instruction through a private driving school. There is no reduction in the fees for the school system if the instruction is split in this manner.
Additional paperwork must be completed in order to leave the UCPS Driver Education program and begin at a private driving school. It is suggested that a student completes the final exam and vision screening with UCPS. After this, if they wish to move to a private driving school for BTW instruction, the parent will need to contact the lead instructor at their child's school to start the paperwork. Once the student exits the UCPS Driver Education program, they cannot return.
