The Different Classifications of Driver Training Level 1: Familiarization Programs that fall into one of the following categories:   1.) 2.) 3.) Lecture programs of varying length that neither take attendance, nor produce any proof of completion. 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. Any self-regulated program where driving time is logged. Level 2: On-Line Point-and-click programs which require no interaction with instructors. Typically offered by insurance companies to discount insurance rates. Example: On-line driver's education courses. Level 3: Defensive Driving I ("Passive") Programs with little or no skill-training involved. It's not a hands-on class, just visual communications heavy with intimidating, or fear-related content. State or court appointed programs. These programs only increase awareness of situations that could easily become Emergency Driving Conditions. Example: DUI schools, and some on-line programs, that fail to meet the requirements of a true, "Active" Defensive Driving program as defined and certified as Level 6. Some of these programs involve the use of "Drunk Goggles". Level 4: Simulation I & II   Simulation I: Simulation II: Simulator programs of the single-monitor variety. Designed to do anything from apply their knowledge of traffic laws to test their braking reaction time. 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: Basic Operational Training (Driver's Education) Introduction to vehicle operation, basic navigation and behind the wheel training in Normal Driving Conditions only. Level 6: Advanced Operational Training All programs ranging from those that build on the Normal Driving Conditions experience, up to, but not including Level 7 or Level 8 programs. Level 7: Defensive Driving II ("Active") - Generic, Advanced Skill Training Behind-the-wheel, advanced skill training, done in a vehicle provided by the training organization, which is usually an automobile manufacturer (BMW, Audi, Ford, etc.). Unlike driver's ed programs, these programs increase driver awareness of situations that could become Emergency Driving Conditions, and provide skill-training on how to respond when it happens. Hands-on, training is done in Emergency Driving Conditions that are:   1.) 2.) 3.) Taken as an elective to complete the new-driver training process, or Taken by companies seeking to reduce their insurance risk for their fleet drivers, or Required by the courts for repeat-offenders. Example: Accident or crash avoidance programs. Instructors of this level training are not required to be NDDI Certified. Instructors are typically familiar with the vehicles specs, turning radius, acceleration/deceleration rates and braking systems and such of the vehicles the provide for their students since they typically use the same vehicles. Level 8: Defensive Driving III ("Active") - Specific, Advanced Skill Training Same as above, but done in the student's choice of vehicle. Instructors of this level training are NDDI Certified. Instructors are also required to research and familiarize themselves with the vehicle specs, turning radii, acceleration/deceleration rates and braking systems available on each vehicle that will be attending the program, so the training is directly relevant to each driver's specific needs and each vehicle's specific capabilities/limitations. Level 9: Emergency Vehicle Operation Course (EVOC) Training First responders training available through law enforcement agencies including high-speed, or pursuit vehicle training. Level 10: Competition or Performance High-speed classes in vehicle maximization. Driving styles recommended for closed course competition. Not for street use. Driving programs which include skid-pad training, controlling a skid, drifting and the like*. (*The NDDI feels there are some driving skills that don't belong in the hands of a new driver. Therefore, programs including maintaining a skid, drifting and other behaviors not appropriate for public roads new drivers do not qualify for certification as they tend to make new drivers feel over-confident. Examples: Bob Bondurant, Skip Barber, Frank Hawley, etc. A complete driver education training program is considered to consist of a Level 6 and a Level 8 program.