Lansing-area teens can get behind the wheel and learn crash-avoidance techniques from experienced state troopers on Sunday, Aug. 30, at a free defensive driving school at the MSP Drive Track.
The Michigan State Police First District announced on X that it will host a Teen Defensive Driving School at the facility, located at 7426 N. Canal Road, Lansing. The 42-acre site sits adjacent to the Michigan State Police Training Academy.
Two sessions are available: 8 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The program is free.
It is open to teens ages 14 and up and funded through a grant administered by the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning, according to the MSP Precision Driving Unit's website. Families should call 517-282-8710 to confirm exact eligibility requirements and register.
What participants can expect
The curriculum includes four hours of hands-on training and one hour of online instruction, according to the Precision Driving Unit. At comparable MSP teen driving events across Michigan this year, students have driven actual patrol vehicles while practicing defensive techniques with troopers. Families should confirm specific details for the Lansing session when registering.
Teen crash deaths rising
The event comes weeks after MSP released final 2025 crash data on Aug. 6 showing teen traffic fatalities in Michigan rose 17 percent last year, reaching 77 deaths among drivers ages 13 to 19, even as overall roadway fatalities fell 3 percent statewide, according to the agency's news release.
How to register
The MSP First District's announcement includes a registration link. Families can also contact the Precision Driving Unit at 517-282-8710 for more information or to ask about eligibility.
Upcoming community events
- Sunday, Aug. 30: MSP Teen Defensive Driving School, MSP Drive Track, 7426 N. Canal Road, Lansing. Sessions at 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. Free. Call 517-282-8710 for details.
