Why training, experience, and good habits matter more than ever
Read time: 5–6 minutes
For many families, getting a driver’s license is a major milestone. It represents freedom, independence, and a new level of responsibility for teenagers.
But a recent article from The Tennessean highlighted something many parents may not realize:
Tennessee requires less formal driver training than most states, while also ranking near the top nationally for teen traffic fatalities. The Tennessean
That doesn’t mean Tennessee teens are bad drivers. But it does raise an important question for parents:
Is the minimum legal requirement really enough preparation for today’s roads?
Tennessee’s licensing system: what’s required?
Tennessee uses a graduated licensing system that allows teens to earn driving privileges in stages.
To receive a learner’s permit, teens must:
- be at least 15 years old
- pass a written exam
- pass a vision screening
But Tennessee does not require formal driver’s education classes before issuing a license. According to the article, Tennessee is one of only 13 states without a mandatory driver education requirement. Tennessee
The state does require:
- supervised driving hours
- nighttime driving experience
- restrictions on passengers and late-night driving for younger drivers
Those are important safeguards. But many parents still choose to go beyond the minimum.
Why some parents are investing in driver training anyway
The article referenced data shared by Brentwood Driver Training, where owner Jeremy Lyon said students who completed their program were involved in significantly fewer accidents than those who did not.
Their curriculum includes:
- classroom instruction
- driving simulators
- real-world driving practice
While research on driver education is mixed overall, many parents feel structured training provides:
- more confidence behind the wheel
- better hazard awareness
- more experience in controlled environments
- exposure to situations parents may not naturally teach The Tennessean
The reality parents are navigating today
Driving today is different than it was even 15–20 years ago.
Teen drivers now face:
- heavier traffic
- larger vehicles on the road
- more distractions
- navigation apps and smartphone temptation
- higher repair costs after accidents
And for parents, there’s another reality:
Teen drivers can significantly affect auto insurance premiums and liability exposure.
That’s why conversations about safety, coverage limits, and good driving habits matter early.
A few smart habits that matter more than parents think
Formal classes can help, but everyday habits still make the biggest difference.
Here are a few things Benton White Insurance encourages families to focus on:
Practice in real conditions
Parking lots are helpful early on, but teens also need experience with:
- rain
- nighttime driving
- highways
- merging traffic
- unfamiliar routes
Limit distractions early
Phones remain one of the biggest concerns for young drivers. Many families create strict “phone away while driving” rules from day one.
Talk about passengers
Even Tennessee’s graduated licensing system limits passengers for newer drivers — and for good reason. Extra passengers can increase distraction and risky decision-making.
Don’t just teach “how to drive”
Teach:
- defensive driving
- patience
- awareness
- how to react calmly under pressure
Confidence without judgment can become dangerous quickly.
Insurance considerations for families with teen drivers
Adding a teen driver to a policy is a good time to review:
- liability limits
- uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
- deductibles
- vehicle choices
- discounts that may apply for good students or training programs
Many families focus only on price, but coverage matters more once a young driver is on the road regularly.
Final thoughts
The goal isn’t fear. The goal is preparation.
Most teen drivers will become safe, capable adults behind the wheel. But experience, guidance, and intentional training still matter — especially in a state where formal education requirements are relatively limited.
At Benton White Insurance, we encourage families to think beyond the minimum requirements and have proactive conversations about both safety and protection before a teenager starts driving independently.
If your family is preparing to add a teen driver to your policy, we’re happy to help review coverage options and answer questions.
Benton White Insurance (Middle Tennessee)
Call/Text: (615) 377-1212
Email: info@BentonWhite.com
Disclaimer
This article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, driving, or insurance advice. Coverage, eligibility, discounts, and rates vary by carrier and policy.
Article reference
This blog references reporting originally published by The Tennessean in an article written by Stuart Dyos on May 13, 2026: “Tennessee allows teens to drive without formal training despite high traffic fatalities.”
