Watching your teenager take the wheel for the first time can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. As a parent in New York’s Capital Region — covering Albany, Schenectady, Troy, Clifton Park, and surrounding towns — it’s natural to want your teen to have a safe, smooth path toward becoming a confident driver.

At Bell’s Auto Driving, we’ve been training generations of drivers for over 60 years. This guide is designed to help Capital Region parents understand what to expect, what’s required, and how to best support your teen throughout the learning-to-drive journey.

Understand New York State Requirements

In New York, teens must be at least 16 years old to apply for a learner’s permit. After passing the written permit test, the next steps include:

  • Completing 50 hours of supervised driving (15 of those at night)
  • Taking a 5-Hour Pre-Licensing Course
  • Scheduling and passing the road test

Bell’s offers everything your teen needs, including the 5-Hour Zoom course, private lessons, and complete road test packages.

Why Choose Professional Driving Lessons?

While many parents try to teach their teens to drive, working with certified instructors provides a safer, more structured experience. Our trained instructors are patient, experienced, and familiar with DMV test standards.

Benefits of enrolling your teen at Bell’s include:

  • One-on-one instruction in dual-controlled vehicles
  • Step-by-step preparation for the road test
  • Local knowledge of roads and DMV testing areas
  • Confidence-building lessons in both residential and city settings

We also pick up and drop off students in many parts of the Capital Region, including Albany, Clifton Park, Schenectady, Troy, and more.

Package Options to Fit Your Family’s Needs

We understand that every teen learns at a different pace. That’s why Bell’s offers lesson packages that provide value and flexibility:

  • Bronze Package: 3 lessons for $230
  • Silver Package: 6 lessons for $455
  • Gold Package: 10 lessons for $800 (includes a free 5-hour course!)

These packages help families save money while giving teens the consistent practice they need.

Pro Tip for Parents

Support your teen outside of lessons by riding with them during practice hours. Let them drive to school, the grocery store, or extracurricular activities. Pair this hands-on time with Bell’s lessons for the best results.

And remember — it’s not just about passing the test. Our goal is to help your teen become a skilled, responsible driver for life.

Ready to Get Started?

Call 518-371-8949 to enroll your teen in one of our trusted driving programs. Let’s keep Capital Region roads safe — one teen driver at a time.