More in-car practice, less classroom time among MPI driver education overhaul

More time online and fewer classroom hours are part of changes coming to MPI’s driver education program.

The “Driver Z” program will launch as a pilot project in 20 high schools across the province with a full roll-out expected in the fall.

Some of the changes include a reduction in classroom time from 34 hours to 20 hours and an increase in supervised in-car practice with a co-pilot from the current 24 hours to 45 hours.

RELATED: Manitoba announces mandatory entry-level training for commercial truck drivers

Get breaking National news

For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen.

Sign up for breaking National newsletter Sign Up

By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Students will also have to successfully complete 12 hours of online work before the first class.

“Kids like to do a lot of this stuff online,” said Maria Minenna, manager of driver education and training at MPI.

“And the online component gears them to self-learning and taking it in smaller bite-sized pieces and they can learn at their own pace.

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "And the online component gears them to self-learning and taking it in smaller bite-sized pieces and they can learn at their own pace.

“Research also shows us that parent involvement is a huge thing,” Minenna added.

Students will also receive feedback on instructor-led in-car lessons once which is aimed at helping co-pilot practice time.

WATCH: Car damage, deductible and demerits: MPI says avoid potholes

0:36 Car damage, deductible and demerits: MPI says avoid potholes