Testing driver training programs for young new drivers
Official title: A Contemporary Look at Driver Training and Its Role in Reducing Crash Risk in Novice Adolescent Drivers
Run by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia · NCT06413927 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests different driver training programs to see which one helps young new drivers stay safe and avoid crashes after they get their licenses.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 16 Years to 17 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 1300 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | August 8, 2024 |
| Main results expected | December 2027 |
| Study ends | December 2027 |
| Registry record updated | April 6, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06413927 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are adolescents aged 16-17 years old who reside in Pennsylvania and hold an active learner's permit.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are non-Pennsylvania residents or those who do not plan to obtain a driver's license within the next year may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness of various driver training interventions aimed at reducing crash risks among young drivers shortly after they obtain their licenses. A thousand adolescent learner drivers in Pennsylvania will be recruited to participate in the study, which will track their driving behavior through a smartphone app and surveys over a six-month period post-licensure. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive one of three types of training: professional behind-the-wheel training, online vehicle and driver safety training, or online driver skills training. The study aims to provide insights into how different training methods can improve driving skills and safety for novice drivers.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly reduce crash risks for young drivers, enhancing their safety on the road.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown some success in improving driving skills and reducing crashes with various training interventions, indicating that this approach has potential.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adolescents ages 16-17 years old who reside in Pennsylvania * Have an active Pennsylvania learner's permit * Have \<30 hours of driving practice during permit phase * Have never taken an on-road licensing exam, in any state * Plan to get a license within the next 12 months in Pennsylvania * Plan to have access to a vehicle to drive after licensure * Have a personal cell phone and access to a smartphone/tablet/computer with internet access * Download and use the RoadReady app (only required for participants randomized to the behind-the-wheel training arm; optional for participants randomized to the online vehicle and driver safety and online driver skills training arms) * Are able to read/write in English * Provide informed consent/assent * Are not also taking part in another learner driver study Exclusion Criteria: * Non-Pennsylvania resident * Participants who do not pass the license exam will not be able to complete the post-license monitoring until the license is obtained * Enrolled in another learner driver study
Where it's running
-
Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Thomas Seacrist, MBE — Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
- Study coordinator: Thomas Seacrist, MBE
- Email: seacrist@chop.edu
- Phone: 267-425-1547
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.