Our 15 year old kiddo is about to start driving, lord help us, and we've begun to look into drivers ed classes. What we are finding is quite expensive but there are some alternatives we are looking into that we didn't know were available.  There are online courses available that are much less expensive than going to a school.When I was a teen you could take drivers ed through the school. These days you generally have to go to a private driving school or opt for this online class, which I didn't even know was available.The more I've asked around the more people I'm finding going the online route. There are 3 ways that the DPS allows a teen to receive drivers ed. Here is a quick look at those options.

1. Online education

According to the Texas Online Drivers Ed website it's pretty simple. You register, study online, take the DPS knowledge test (for free) and begin your in-car driving lessons.

You can save time and money, it's done at your convenience, defensive techniques are taught, you could save money on your insurance, and it's only $99. The price is about a third of what you would pay for a local driving school.

2. Parent-Taught

Parent-taught drivers ed is a little more involved but still inexpensive, even more so than the online method. This can cost anywhere from $15-$75 depending on the form you request your information be sent (download, CD Rom or Printed material). This method is done with the approval of the TxDPS.

Parent/guardian must have a valid driver's license for at least 3 years, has not had license suspend/revoked in last 3 years, has less than 6 points on driving record, never been convicted or received probated sentence for DWI, DUI or criminally negligent homicide and is not disabled due to mental illness.

3. Public School

The public school offered class, which to my knowledge is no longer offered here in Abilene. If you have this choice available it would make the most sense. It is generally less expensive than a private driving school.

Hope this helps you find the driving school that best works for you and your teen. Best of luck, and drive safe!

More From 92.5 The Ranch