FULL STORY: https://www.10tv.com/article/news/local/ohio/ohio-drivers-ed-requirements-young-drivers-new-law-state-budget/530-cb182a61-d089-44f7-93bb-d557293a2710 Distractions are everywhere the moment you turn the key and throw the car into drive, but new changes to Ohio’s driver’s education laws aim to better prepare young drivers for the road ahead. Amy Hura recently had a busy afternoon at the BMV with her 16-year-old daughter, Molly. “I did good on the driving part, but the maneuverability, got to retake that,” Molly said. Despite the setback, Molly said she felt confident behind the wheel, thanks to the rigorous state required training process. “I had to do an online course," Molly said. "I just finished that up. It took six or seven months. I had to do eight hours of in-car training." Now, that same level of training will soon be mandatory for even more Ohio drivers. As part of the newly signed two-year state budget, Gov. Mike DeWine approved updates to Ohio’s driver’s education law. Previously, drivers aged 18 and up could opt out of full training requirements or take a shortened course. Under the new law, anyone 21 and under must now complete a full driver’s education course and 50 hours of supervised practice. David Burke, owner of Faith Driving School, said he believes the change will save lives. “Those ages, 18 to 19, it's more dangerous for them," Burke said. "So now, we will get that up to at least 21. They will be more trained and that will make the roads in Ohio safer." One proposal that didn’t make it into the final budget was reinstating driver’s education in public schools. Instead, districts will now be required to excuse students for up to eight hours of private driving instruction outside of core class time. "This is an important skill, just like all the other skills they do in school," Burke added. For Amy, it’s alarming to realize how many young drivers were previously on the road without formal training. “I would have no idea what to do — the road signs, the traffic, the roundabouts, four-way stops. It all scares teenagers,” Molly said. Her mom is glad to see the state take action. “I think everyone should have the training," Amy said. "Things have changed. The roundabouts are crazy, and the highway exits are different now." As for Molly, she’s already looking forward to her second chance at passing the maneuverability test next Tuesday. “I’m so excited, more freedom as a teenager. I’ll be able to drive to school," Molly said. "For freedom for me," Amy added. DeWine said last year, 58% of fatal accidents involving teens were those aged 18 to 19 years old.