As your teen gears up to begin driving, understand the critical role parents play in setting up your young driver for success. It begins by modeling the responsible driving habits we want our teens to develop.

Teach them to control their drive — improper lane changes, speeding, inattentive, erratic or negligent driving is dangerous. Reckless driving contributed to more than a quarter of all crash fatalities last year. It puts their lives at risk and the lives of everyone else on the road. Teen drivers have the highest crash risk of any age group.

Teach them that cell phone use while driving is illegal for new drivers, and texting while driving is against the law for all drivers in Wisconsin. Driving requires their complete focus and attention. There is no place for multi-tasking or checking phones while driving. Simple habits like buckle up, phone down saves lives.

As a role model and teacher, you set the example of how you control your drive. Every time you get behind the wheel, you can become part of the solution to make Wisconsin’s roads safer by learning proper skills, not driving recklessly, avoiding distractions and staying focused on road.

Craig Thompson
Wisconsin Department of Transportation Secretary

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Getting in a car with your teen behind the wheel is an exciting time. You helped prepare them for many of life’s milestones. Obtaining a Wisconsin driver’s license is another unforgettable step. But remember, driving is a privilege and it comes with responsibility.

Establish with your teen driver open and clear communication about the rules for safe driving. The Parent-Teen Driving Contract in this guide can help. This enables you and your teenager to work together to establish clear expectations for safe driving behavior and consequences if those are not followed. Other resources, including the steps teens (ages 15-17) should follow to qualify for a Wisconsin driver license will also help you to prepare them.

Learning safe driving habits takes time. The time you spend with your teen as they practice behind-the-wheel will help them become a safer driver. This guide will help you make the most of that practice time.

Tommy Winkler
Wisconsin DMV Administrator