Do You Need Driver's Ed in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts requires driver’s ed. If you’re under 18 and want a license, you’ll need to complete a state-approved course before you can take the road test.

What the requirement looks like

If you’re under 18, you need a state-approved course. That typically means 30+ hours of classroom work and several hours of in-car instruction with a licensed teacher. Online courses count in many cases, but check with your local DMV to make sure the program you pick is on the approved list.

Driver education required for license applicants under 18.

What’s in the course

Classroom or online instruction covers traffic laws, sign recognition, and defensive driving principles. You’ll also learn about the consequences of DUI, texting while driving, and road rage. If the program includes in-car training, expect 6 to 10 hours behind the wheel with an instructor. Cost varies: $200 on the low end for online-only, up to $800 for programs with driving time included.

Practice hours on top of driver’s ed

Driver’s ed and supervised practice are two different requirements in Massachusetts. You’ll need 40 hours behind the wheel with a licensed adult. The course doesn’t count toward those hours.

More on the hour requirement: Massachusetts permit hours.

Keep track of your progress

Moda logs your supervised driving hours automatically. It tracks day vs. night, shows your running total against Massachusetts’s requirements, and generates the driving log you’ll need for the DMV. One less thing to worry about during the permit process.

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