KERN COUNTY, Calif. — California Highway Patrol has been awarded a grant to help young drivers learn how to eliminate high-risk actions and decrease their chances of being in a crash by offering the Start Smart program.

The Start Smart program is currently being conducted online for 2020-2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic. The two-hour course has been developed specifically to reduce vehicle crashes that cause serious injuries and fatalities.

“The Start Smart program is an effective tool for teens and their parents to combat young drivers’ risky driving behaviors,” CHP Commissioner Warren Stanley said. “The Department is committed to making a difference in the future of California’s youth through continued traffic safety educational efforts.”

The Start Smart curriculum is based on collision statistics, teen driver and passenger behaviors, Graduated Driver License laws, cultural changes, and the need for stronger parental involvement.

Parents and teenagers can register for a Start Smart class by contacting their local CHP office.

More information about Start Smart and the GDL program can be found on the free CHP Start Smart mobile app, which is available on Android and iOS devices. The app also includes access to the California Driver Handbook and a trip logger to keep track of the user’s driving time to help them prepare to obtain their license.