require free, state-funded driver’s education courses in all Minnesota public high schools through a public–private

partnership model.

 

The purpose of this act is to ensure equitable access to certified driver’s education for all Minnesota public high

school students. Many students cannot afford private driver’s training, limiting opportunities for employment,

independence, and safe mobility. Providing free driver’s education through partnerships between public schools and

state-certified private providers promotes fairness, reduces teen traffic accidents, and supports communities statewide.

 

The purpose of this bill is to ensure that all Minnesota high school students have equal access to high-quality driver’s

education, regardless of their family’s financial situation or the resources of their school district. Driver’s

education in Minnesota can cost families between $300 and $500 through private programs. This cost prevents many

students—especially those in rural areas, low-income households, or single-car families—from gaining the basic training

they need to become safe, licensed drivers. As a result, many teens learn to drive with little supervision, delay

getting a license needed for work or school, or drive without proper preparation, increasing safety risks for everyone

on the road.

Minnesota is a state where reliable transportation is essential. Many students must travel long distances to school,

extracurricular activities, or part-time jobs. Public transportation is limited outside major metro areas, making a

driver’s license a necessity for youth independence, employment, and family responsibilities. By offering free driver’s

education through partnerships between public schools and certified private providers, this bill ensures that every

Minnesota student—whether they live in Minneapolis or a small rural town—has the same opportunity for safe mobility.

The bill uses an efficient public–private partnership model rather than requiring schools to create their own new

programs. Many districts lack the staff, cars, or insurance resources to build a driver’s ed program from scratch.

Instead, the bill allows schools to contract with established private driver training businesses, using school

classrooms and parking areas while the state reimburses providers for instructional costs. This model supports Minnesota

small businesses, reduces administrative burden on schools, and delivers high-quality instruction without raising costs

for families.

Providing free, accessible driver’s education will also improve statewide safety outcomes. Untrained or undertrained

teen drivers have significantly higher accident rates. By ensuring that all students receive standardized, certified

training, Minnesota can reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities among young drivers. This investment benefits students,

families, communities, and the state’s transportation system as a whole.

In summary, this bill expands access, promotes safety, supports equity, and serves the needs of Minnesota families. It

represents a practical and cost-effective solution to a real problem faced by students across the state.

 

Subdivision 1. “Driver’s education provider.”

A business or organization certified by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety to conduct classroom and

behind-the-wheel driver instruction.

Subdivision 2. “Public school.”

A state-funded Minnesota school serving grades 9–12.

Subdivision 3. “Eligible student.”

Any public high school student aged 15 to 18.

 

(a) The state shall reimburse contracted providers for instruction costs through the Minnesota Teen Driver Safety Grant

established under this act.

(b) School districts may not require families to cover any portion of instructor fees, vehicle usage, or materials.

(c) The Department of Public Safety shall develop reimbursement rates and reporting requirements.

 

This act shall be enforced by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety in coordination with the Minnesota Department of

Education and local school districts.

 

This act shall take effect on July 1, 2026.