Teen Driver Challenge offered in Sarasota

The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office is offering a two-day course to licensed drivers, designed to give students the experience they need to drive safely. Deputies will teach the class in cooperation with the Florida Sheriffs Association, and students will receive a certificate of completion, which could result in a discount with
some insurance companies.

On the first day, drivers will learn about teen crashes, safe driving habits and the importance of their five senses behind the wheel. The class will also help teens become more familiar with their vehicle.

The following day, students will practice on the driving course, learning such skills as backing up, emergency braking and evasive maneuvers.

The Teen Driver Challenge will be held twice each quarter, with sessions limited to 20 students. The next two sessions will be held:

• Jan. 15 and Jan. 16: The classroom portion will take place from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 15, at the Criminal Justice Center, 2071 Ringling Blvd. The driving portion will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 16, at 664 West Price Blvd., next to North Port High School

• Jan. 22 and Jan. 23: The classroom portion will be held from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 22, at the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, 4531 State Road 776, Venice. The driving portion will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 23, at 664 West Price Blvd., next to North Port High School.

Registration forms are available online at www.SarasotaSheriff.org by clicking on Teen Driver Challenge. For information, call 927-4190.