Registration is now open for Vision Zero Driving Skills for Success on Wednesday, Aug. 5, at the North Dakota State Fairgrounds in Minot.

Driving Skills for Success (DSFS) is a free, hands-on driving program designed to help teens build safer driving habits and gain real-world driving experience. The event is open to teens ages 14-18 with a valid permit or license. A second event will be held at the VFW Sports Center in Bismarck on Tuesday, July 28. The sessions run from 9 a.m.-noon or 1-4 p.m.

The DSFS sessions gives teens the opportunity to practice real-world driving skills on a controlled course; experience simulators that demonstrate the dangers of impaired and distracted driving; learn the importance of seat belt use and other safe driving behaviors; and participate in hands-on traffic safety activities and demonstrations.

The North Dakota Department of Transportation encourages parents to attend DSFS with their teen, but noted that the Alive at 25 segment is designed as a teen-only classroom experience.

Emma Mills, a teen participant planning to attend this year’s DSFS program, said she is looking forward to learning from experienced drivers and safety professionals.

“I’m excited to learn new driving skills and hear from people who know a lot more than me when it comes to driving,” Mills said. “Programs like this give teens the chance to learn how to drive more safely and confidently.”

According to NDDOT, while teen drivers represented only 6% of licensed drivers in 2024, they were involved in nearly 20% of all crashes and 6% of fatal crashes. Vision Zero DSFS is designed to help teens become safer, more responsible drivers while supporting the goal of zero fatalities and serious injuries on North Dakota roads.

“The goal for Driving Skills for Success is to help young drivers better understand the risks they may face behind the wheel,” said Karin Mongeon, NDDOT Highway Safety Division director. “We want them to leave the event feeling more confident and prepared to make responsible and life-saving decisions.”

Register on the Vision Zero website.