Classroom – Information & Policies
Classroom at The Next Street
This is not your father’s driving school. Our classroom instructors take a dreaded State Requirement, and turn it into a fun and memorable learning experience. While our curriculum is wonderful, the real difference maker is how our outstanding team delivers that curriculum, and you’ll notice it from the first moment you enter our classroom. Pair that with the most flexible classroom scheduling options and you have just one more reason we are known as the Easiest Road to a License.
Please note: Instructors reserve the right to revoke attendance for reasons including, but not limited to; tardiness, disruption, lack of participation, technical issues, leaving early, and inappropriate behavior. We will not jeopardize the quality learning of the group for the poor behavior of a few.
Remote Classroom
All classes are taught virtually via Zoom. In Connecticut, you can start driver’s ed once you turn 16. All new drivers regardless of age must complete either an 8-hour or 30-hour classroom program, and your permit hold time will depend on the course you take and your age.
- Participation: You must complete the full 2-hour Zoom session. Instructors take attendance multiple times. Participation means answering questions, joining activities, and completing in-class quizzes.
- Parent/Guardian Requirement: If you’re under 18, a parent/guardian must attend your first session.
- Signature Requirement: For students under 18, a parent/guardian must sign off on Session 1 (Parent Class) in your Student Portal.
- Quiz Requirement: After every session, you must pass a 10-question quiz to get credit.
- Zoom Name: Use your full legal name (as it appears on your Learner’s Permit). You may add a nickname after a dash (e.g., James Smith – Jim).
- Stable Network: Use a stationary device with a reliable internet connection. If you disconnect more than once, you will not receive credit.
- Camera Policy: Your camera must be on, facing you, and steady for the entire session. This is state law (Public Act 25-159). If you turn it off, you may be removed and required to reschedule at your own cost.
- Learning Environment: Be seated in a quiet, well-lit space, ready to take notes and participate. No driving, no distractions, no inappropriate backgrounds. Handwritten notes are encouraged — they help you learn faster.
- Attendance & Punctuality: You must be present for the full session. Attendance checks happen at the start, middle, and end of class.
- Focus: Stay engaged — no phones, no multitasking. The focus you build here is the same focus you’ll need behind the wheel.
Connecticut Age Restriction Guidelines
- Students must be at least 16 years old to receive credit for any classroom sessions or driving lessons.
- While school is in session, students under 18 may attend a maximum of 2 hours of classroom instruction on weekdays, 4 hours on weekend days, and 2 hours of driving lessons per day.
- During school breaks, students under 18 may attend up to 4 hours of classroom instruction and 2 hours of driving lessons per day.
- Students aged 18 and older may participate in up to 8 hours of classroom sessions and 2 hours of driving lessons per day, unless they are enrolled in secondary school. Secondary school students are limited to a maximum of 4 hours of classroom instruction on weekdays.
- Students may enroll in a classroom course at age 15, provided the class starts after their 16th birthday. No credit will be given for classes taken while the student is under 16.