Is Defensive Driving The Same As Drivers Ed?

 
No, they are not. Defensive Driving and Drivers Ed are two separate things. Drivers Ed is a course designed to teach people how to drive, either teens or adults. The course focuses on the basics of learning how to drive. In Texas, this course is the pre-requisite to apply for a learner’s permit, and eventually, a driver’s license.

Defensive driving is a course focused on driver safety for licensed drivers. The focus of the course is on driving defensively. The things you learn from this course teach you how to be a safer driver for both yourself and others on the road. A Defensive Driving course assumes you already know how to drive though. In most cases, you would only take a defensive driving course once you already have your license.

So how are Defensive Driving and Drivers Ed courses similar? In Texas, they are both regulated by the TDLR (Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation). The TDLR approves each provider, sets time limits and requires certain content to make sure learning is consistent across all courses. They also both cover some of the same fundamental lessons about driving. The courses serve two very different purposes though.

Defensive Driving and Drivers Ed are not the same. Depending on the situation you will need to take the one that applies to your circumstance. If you’re working to get your license, you will take Drivers Ed. If you’re working on dismissing a ticket or lowering your auto insurance, you will take Defensive Driving.