Summary of Services
- Free one-day course, led by certified Law Enforcement driving Instructors with real-world safety experience
- Emphasizes defensive driving skills and advanced maneuvers, focusing on collision prevention, hazard recognition, and safe decision-making
Focusing on Technical Driving Ability and Safety
The Teen Driver Challenge (TDC), offered by the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, is a free, one-day driving safety course designed to equip young drivers with the skills and knowledge they need to become safe and responsible behind the wheel. the program is led by certified Law Enforcement Driving Instructors who provide expert, hands-on training to prepare teens for real-world driving experiences and challenges.
Offered multiple times throughout the year from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m., the course is open exclusively to St. Johns County students and focuses on building both technical driving ability and strong safety awareness. Training takes place on a range, allowing participants to practice with their family vehicle in a controlled, supervised environment.
On a closed driving range and through carefully structured exercises, students learn defensive driving techniques to reduce risk, prevent collisions, and make safe, quick decisions under pressure, skills that not only protect themselves but also safeguard other drivers and passengers.
Eligibility and Signup
To be eligible, students must be at least 15 years old, hold either a learner’s permit or a driver’s license, and possess basic driving skills with prior behind-the-wheel experience. A clean driving record is also expected. Parents or guardians are required to provide proof of vehicle insurance and proof of registration. They must complete all the necessary forms, including the TDC Parent Release, Student Statement Form, Vehicle Statement and Release Form, and the TDC Student Signup Form.
Early registration is highly recommended, and forms can be found on the website. The Teen Driver Challenge is held at the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office headquarters, located at 911 Law Enforcement Way, St. Augustine, FL 32092.