My state allows kids to get their permit at 14 and drive on their own at 14.5 to school and work, as long as they completed driver's ed.
There are some young drivers around here!
My oldest learned 3 years ago and my youngest has her permit now...at 14.
I think the most important part of learning is to introduce them to new stuff only as they feel ready. Dumb to send em to downtown and have them parallel park if they arent ready. Dumb to send em on the interstate during rush hour if they arent ready.
- empty mall parking lot driving to start. They can practice turning, starting, stopping, turn signals, backing out, parking, etc.
- side streets next. They can get used to distance to curbs, going around street parked cars, etc.
- trips to places they are familiar with next. Local grocery store, Target, etc.
- Interstate driving and rural highway driving next. Rural highway driving seems to be the easiest to pick up for new drivers.
- City driving is the final boss. Navigating 1way streets, pedestrians, construction, etc.
^ Depending on the kid, this can all take 12 days, 12 weeks, or 12 months to master. Some are still working on it 12 years later as adults.
