SACRAMENTO,
Calif.– The California
Highway Patrol (CHP) has received a grant to fund the Start Smart program, a
traffic safety initiative designed to educate and empower teen drivers, ages
15-19, and their guardians. The free,
two-hour Start Smart class helps newly licensed teens navigate the risks of
driving while highlighting the essential role of guardian involvement in
traffic safety. Led by an experienced CHP public information officer, the
class covers topics such as crash prevention, safe driving habits,
consequences of risky behavior, guardian responsibilities, and legal
liabilities. The program
requires a guardian’s participation because it recognizes their influence on
teen driving habits. Through Start Smart, guardians learn how to support
their teens, enforce safe driving practices, and understand the laws
affecting young drivers. “The Start
Smart program allows us to take proactive steps in protecting our youngest
drivers by equipping them and their parents or guardians with the knowledge
and tools needed to navigate the road safely,” said CHP Commissioner Duryee.
“Educating new drivers on responsible habits today will help prevent
tragedies tomorrow, and we’re proud to be able to offer a program that
prioritizes the safety and well-being of our communities.” To register to
attend an upcoming Start Smart class, contact
your local CHP
office. More information about Start Smart and California’s provisional
driver licensing law is available on the free CHP Start Smart App. Available
for download in the Apple app store or Google Play, this app provides users
with access to the Department of Motor Vehicle’s California Driver’s Handbook
and a trip logger to track driving time as teens prepare to obtain their driver's
license. Additional
information about the Start Smart program and the mobile app can be found on
the CHP’s website. Funding for
this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic
Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The
mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and
Security.
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