AN ACT RELATING TO MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES -- OPERATORS' AND CHAUFFEURS' LICENSES

HB 7498 allows driver education schools in Rhode Island to offer required driver training courses either in-person or through instructor-led virtual classes for a two-year period (October 2026 to October 2028). This applies specifically to applicants under 18 seeking their first driver's license, as they must complete the course before receiving a permit or license. The bill maintains existing course requirements, including 33 instructional hours covering Rhode Island traffic laws, alcohol/drug effects, and graduated licensing rules, but permits virtual delivery during the trial period. It also mandates the state education board to compare virtual and in-person course outcomes and report findings by December 2028.