A Parent’s Guide to Teen Driver Safety in 2026

As a parent, you are the most influential driving coach your teen will ever have. At

Ready Set Go Driving School

, we partner with families to turn nervous beginners into confident, safe drivers. Here is how you can support your teen’s journey this year.

1. Focus on the "Big Three" Risks

Statistically, teen drivers are most at risk during their first six months of solo driving. In 2026, three factors contribute most to accidents:

• Distraction: It's not just texting anymore. Modern infotainment screens and car-integrated apps can be just as dangerous. Teach your teen to set their GPS and playlist before they shift into drive.

• Speeding: In 2023, speeding was a factor in 34% of fatal teen crashes. Emphasize that speed limits are the absolute maximum, especially in new 2026 automated enforcement zones.

• Passengers: Every additional teen passenger increases the risk of a crash exponentially. Stick to California’s GDL laws, which prohibit driving with passengers under 20 for the first year of licensure unless a licensed adult is present.

2. Practice Beyond the Basics

While the DMV requires 50 hours of practice (including 10 at night), the quality of those hours matters more than the quantity.

• Vary the Conditions: Don't just stick to quiet neighborhood streets. Take your teen on I-5 during peak hours, practice merging in the rain, and navigate local construction zones.

• New 2026 Requirement: As of 2026, new drivers must be familiar with the latest Move Over laws and first responder safety modules. Ensure you are practicing how to safely change lanes when approaching stationary vehicles with hazard lights.

3. Use a Parent-Teen Driving Contract

Setting clear expectations in writing helps prevent arguments and saves lives. A 2026 driving contract should include:

• Strict Phone Policy: Use "Do Not Disturb While Driving" features at all times.

• The "No Questions Asked" Ride: Promise your teen that if they ever feel unsafe to drive (due to fatigue or other factors), you will pick them up without immediate judgment.

• Maintenance Responsibility: Teach them how to check tire pressure and oil—skills that are often overlooked in the digital age.

4. Mark Your Calendar: National Teen Driver Safety Week

October 18–24, 2026, is National Teen Driver Safety Week. This is the perfect time to review your teen’s progress, refresh their knowledge of new traffic laws, and maybe even book a refresher lesson to iron out any bad habits that may have developed.

Empower Your Teen with Professional Training
Professional instruction provides a safety net that even the best parental coaching can’t always cover. At Ready Set Go Driving School, our patient, DMV-licensed instructors specialize in calming teen nerves and teaching advanced defensive driving.

Book a Teen Driving Package in Tracy Today!