Coeur d’Alene Public Schools announced that it will discontinue its Driver Education program effective November 12, 2025, citing recent changes in state law.

Under House Bill 531 (2024), Idaho families now have the option to complete driver education through a parent-led model, which allows parents or guardians to guide their student’s driver training. 

“For decades, our district has proudly provided driver education to about 200 students each year,” said Superintendent Shon Hocker. “While the program has served families well, I believe it is in the best interests of families for the district to pause our driver's education program. The parent-led option ensures students can still access affordable driver training options at a significant cost reduction.”

The district’s driver education program currently operates at an annual deficit of nearly $28,000. In addition, the program requires a new training vehicle, and the district’s sole certified instructor will retire in November. The district estimates that if it had retained the driver's education program, the district would need to increase the current $275 fee to approximately $375-$405 per student to avoid the deficit. 

After reviewing options, the Board of Trustees voted to discontinue the program on Monday, Sept. 8. 

District officials emphasized that families will continue to have access to state-approved training opportunities.

“This decision was not made lightly,” Hocker added. “We understand it may be disappointing, but it best supports families by reducing costs and ensuring continued access to driver education.”

North Idaho College Workforce Training Center, 525 S. Clearwater Loop, Post Falls
State-approved driver training with 30 hours online, six hours driving, and six hours observation. Prepares teen students for a Supervised Instruction Permit (SIP) and positions them to take the next steps toward earning a full Idaho Driver’s License. Info: nic.edu/drivers-education or (208) 769-3214. Cost is $499