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NDDI |
Driver Training Program Definitions |
The 7 classifications of driver training:
Level 1- Familiarization: (Programs that fall in to one of the following 4 categories) 1- Lecture programs of varying length that do not take attendance, and do not produce any proof of completion. 2- Simulator programs of the single-monitor variety designed to do anything from apply their knowledge of traffic laws to test their braking reaction time. 3- Any group event that does not require behind the wheel time such as a trade-show-type event with multiple vendors, or observing a crash-reenactment dramatization. 4- Any program involving a large audience witnessing a simulated crash-reenactment.. 5- Most on-line programs requiring no interaction with actual instructors. 6- Any self-regulated program where driving time is logged.
Level 2- Operational: (State certified programs covering traffic laws and motor vehicle operation in which training is done in Normal Driving Conditions.) Example: The typical, 30-hour classroom and 6-hours behind-the-wheel Driver Education programs.
Level 3- Appointed: (Programs heavy with intimidating, or fear-related content. On-line or classroom programs.) State or court appointed programs. Example: DUI schools, some on-line programs and any mis-titled "Defensive Driving" program that is in fact, only a classroom or on-line Level 1 program, and not a Defensive Driving program as defined and certified as Level 5. Some of these programs involve the use of "Drunk Goggles".
Level 4- Simulation: (Content: Virtual reality application of the driving experience.) Any full-sensory type driving simulator in which the graphics are photo-quality and real-time displayed on wrap-around monitors.
Level 5- Defensive Driving: (Content: Behind-the-wheel, advanced skill training.) Nationally Certified programs in which training is done in Emergency Driving Conditions that are: 1- Taken as an elective to complete the new-driver training process or 2- Required by the courts for repeat-offenders. Example: Accident or crash avoidance programs. (The NDDI feels there are some driving skills that don't belong in the hands of a new driver. Therefore, programs including skid-pad training, controlling a skid, drifting and other behaviors not appropriate for new drivers do not qualify as they tend to make new drivers feel over-confident.)
Level 6- Emergency Vehicle Operation Course (EVOC) training: First responders training available through law enforcement agencies including high-speed, or pursuit vehicle training.
Level 7- Competition or Performance: (Content: High-speed classes in vehicle maximization.) Driving programs which include skid-pad training, controlling a skid, drifting and the like*. *Not recommended for new drivers. Driving styles recommended for closed course competition. Not for street use. Example: Bob Bondurant, Skip Barber, Frank Hawley, etc.
A complete driver education training program is considered to consist of a Level 2, and a Level 5 program as described on the "Driver Training Program Definitions" page, with a Level 1 done optionally if the student has not become familiar with left/right or stop/go operations.
Copyright © 2010 [National Defensive Driving Institute]. All rights reserved.
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