An Act relative to drivers education

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Carole Fiola

RMV may approve virtual instructor-led driver education by MA-licensed schools, with in-person offices, 3+ years in MA, and good standing to ensure quality.

Accompanied a study order, see H5326

Overview

House Bill 3661, introduced by Representative Carole A. Fiola on February 27, 2025, titled “An Act relative to drivers education,” seeks to modernize and expand how driver education can be delivered in Massachusetts. The bill would authorize the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) to approve driver education curricula delivered in a virtual instructor-led format by state-licensed driving schools, under specific conditions. The bill is currently in the Transportation committee process, with a reporting date extended to March 18, 2026.

Key provisions (proposed change)

Location and delivery requirements for virtual instruction:

The RMV may approve a driver education curriculum delivered in a virtual instructor-led (VIL) format by a state-licensed driving school.

Conditions for approval (new added sentence to Section 32G, Chapter 90): 1) The driving school must own or lease physical offices and/or classrooms in the Commonwealth to provide in-person instruction. 2) The driving school must have at least three consecutive years of operation within the Commonwealth. 3) The driving school must be in good standing with the RMV.

Scope:

Applies to driver education curricula offered in a virtual instructor-led format, supplementing or substituting for traditional in-person instruction, where the above conditions are met.

Legal basis:

Amendment to Section 32G of Chapter 90 of the General Laws (as appearing in the 2022 Official Edition).

Who is affected

State-licensed driving schools in Massachusetts seeking RMV approval to offer virtual instructor-led driver education.

Prospective and current driver education students who can access VIL courses through approved schools.

RMV and related regulatory oversight bodies responsible for approving curricula and maintaining school standing.

Implementation timeline and process

Legislative history:

Referred to the House Committee on Transportation on February 27, 2025.
Senate concurrence noted in the bill’s docket.
Hearing scheduled: July 8, 2025 (11:00 AM–1:00 PM in Room A-1).

Status update:

The reporting date has been extended to Wednesday, March 18, 2026, indicating additional time for review and potential committee actions.

Related legislation:

Related matter previously filed as House Document 3311 (2023-24 session); House Bill 3073 (HD 3073) is listed as related/replacing.

Potential impact and considerations

Access and flexibility:

Expands access to driver education by enabling virtual, instructor-led delivery, which can benefit students with scheduling or geographic barriers.

Quality and oversight:

Maintains safeguards by requiring physical facilities for in-person instruction, a multi-year in-state presence, and good standing with the RMV, ensuring program quality and regulatory compliance.

Operational implications for schools:

Driving schools aspiring to offer VIL curricula must meet the three-year operation requirement, maintain physical spaces, and stay in good standing, potentially affecting smaller or newer programs.

Policy intent:

Balances modernization and flexibility in driver education with checks to preserve established standards and consumer protection.

Note: This summary reflects the bill text and docket information available as of the provided materials.

Bill