The GDL is a system that gradually increases driving privileges for teens. It has three levels: Level 1 (learner’s license/”permit”), Level 2 (restricted license), and Level 3 (full license without restrictions).

You must be at least 14 years and 8 months old to start Segment 1.

Segment 1 includes 24 hours of classroom instruction, 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training, and 4 hours of observation. Segment 1 deals with all aspects of learning to drive.

Segment 2 is 6 hours of classroom instruction only, taken after you’ve successfully completed Segment 1, logged at least 30 hours of driving (2 at night), and have been on your Level 1 learners license for at least 90 consecutive days. Segment 2 is unique in that the focus is on the risks of driving under the influence, driving drowsy, distracted driving and other topics.

We prefer in person classes which have many proven advantages over virtual including: higher test scores, reduced distractions, greater participation, stronger peer connections, immediate feedback, higher quality interactions and greater content retention. Although virtual may have a convenience factor it does not make up for all of the benefits of in person learning. Plus - its drivers training so it should be in person.

If you are under 18 years old, all students are required to complete every aspect of the GDL (graduated driver’s license). Michigan’s GDL system requires both segments to qualify for a full driver’s license.

If you are already 18 years old you must obtain a T.I.P. (temporary instruction permit) from the secretary of state, drive with another license adult (21+) for at least 30 days and then you will be allowed to attempt the road test to obtain a driver’s license.

For Segment 1, students will need to bring their birth certificate to the first day of class as their D.O.B. will need to be verified by the instructor. This can be an original, copy or photograph. It is important for families to know that the State of Michigan will require an original or certified copy at the secretary of state’s office when trying to obtain a Level 1 license.

For Segment 2, students will need to bring their Level 1 license, and a driving log with the required amount of drive hours and times. The minimum hours for Segment 2 are 30 hours (*2 of these should be night hours).

Segment 1 is $500 and Segment 2 is $80. Adult lessons are $130 for 2 hours and our mock road test is $65 for 90 minutes.

It depends on the class but assuming the student has no time to make up it usually around 6 weeks to complete the classroom portion and drives for Segment 1. All drives are required per the State of Michigan to be completed by three weeks after the last day of class.

Segment 2 is a three day class totaling six hours (*2 hours each day).

A Level 1 license allows the student to drive only with a licensed adult over 21 (*driving coach). Student are allowed to have passengers in the car as long as their drive coach is present and allows it. Statistics do show that the more passengers in the car the greater the likelihood for an accident.

Students should bring a notebook and pen/pencil. Smart watches and wearable tech should be left at home.

Segment 1 contains 80-question written test (multiple choice) which students are required to pass with a 70% minimum score. They will be allowed up to three attempts to pass. After the third failed attempt the student will be required to retake Segment 1.

Students enrolled in Segment 1 will also be required to pass the behind the wheel portion (BTW’s). Students are required to prove that they are safe, competent drivers on the road. If the instructor is required to intervene beyond normal levels, this may prevent the student driver from passing Segment 1.

Segment 2 contains 20-question written test (multiple choice) which students are required to pass with a 70% or better. They will be allowed up to three attempts to pass. After the third failed attempt the student will be required to retake Segment 2.

You need a total of 50 drive hours and 10 hours must be night driving before applying for the Level 2 license.

You can use the Road Ready app. (or similar app) to track hours. You may also track the exact hours down on a notepad if you’d rather not use technology.

You can schedule a skills test through a certified third-party testing agency after completing both segments and logging the required practice hours. Garrett’s School of Driving, LLC does not do the road test to obtain a Level 2.

No. You must hold a Level 1 license and drive with a licensed adult (21+) until you meet all requirements for a Level 2 license.

A Level 2 license allows you to drive unsupervised but includes restrictions on driving between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. and limits passengers under 21 to immediate family or going to or from an “authorized activity”.

At 17, if you’ve held a Level 2 license for at least six months without any violations or accidents, you’re eligible for a Level 3 license.

While enrolled in drivers training it is ideal that students not miss any class time or drives for non-emergencies.

Makeup days will be scheduled on an as needed basis so that students are able to complete the course.

Contrary to popular beliefs, driving is a skill. Some students will naturally possess strong skills for driving whereas others may struggle. Struggling does not mean one cannot graduate but they may need to work harder than others. That being said, it is completely normal to feel nervous when first learning to drive! With time, patience, practice and a “ready to learn” attitude the vast majority of students will learn to drive.

Garrett’s will coordinate with you and send out a welcome letter stipulating how drives will be scheduled. It is important that during the time enrolled in drivers training that your teen has availability and flexibility in terms of when they can drive. If your schedule is too busy it may be difficult to plug in drive times.