Teen Drivers & Newcomers Behind the Wheel: Why Driving School Matters
Libby Woolcock • July 9, 2025

Teen Drivers & Newcomers Behind the Wheel: Why Driving School Matters (and Why We're Excited to Partner with Central Carolina Driving School!)

At Emerald Insurance Advocates, we believe that safe drivers make safer communities. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce our newest partnership with Central Carolina Driving School, a woman-owned local business led by the incredible Jackie Forte, who has been helping prepare responsible drivers across North Carolina.


Whether you’re a teen getting behind the wheel for the first time or an expat adjusting to the unique rules of American roads, professional driving instruction is one of the most important first steps in protecting yourself—and everyone else—on the road.


Why Driving School Matters for Teenagers

Let’s face it—handing over the keys to a teenager can feel overwhelming for any parent. But formal driver’s education doesn’t just help teens pass a test; it gives them:

  • A deeper understanding of road safety and driving laws
  • Confidence behind the wheel
  • Defensive driving strategies to avoid accidents
  • Habits that reduce long-term insurance risk (and costs!)

We all benefit when the newest generation of drivers is better prepared. Teen crashes are among the most preventable with the right training—and Jackie and her team at Central Carolina Driving School are known for their patient, thorough approach.


The Expat Advantage: Learning Local Rules with Experts

New to North Carolina? You’re not alone. We meet many international clients who are navigating a whole new world of traffic signs, driving customs, and insurance terms.

A professional driving school isn’t just helpful—it’s a smart move. It gives new to North Carolina drivers:

  • A safe way to transition to U.S. road systems
  • Education on traffic laws that might not exist elsewhere
  • Confidence during DMV testing or license transfers
  • A chance to ask questions in a supportive, structured setting

Whether you’ve driven for decades overseas or just moved to the state, brushing up with a North Carolina-certified driving instructor helps reduce your risk—and may even lead to better insurance rates.


Our Partnership: Driving Smarter, Insuring Smarter

Through our partnership with Central Carolina Driving School, we’re offering students and their families more than just a license. Our team at Emerald Insurance Advocates will be sharing guidance on:

  • Understanding the different types of auto insurance
  • What coverages teen drivers (and parents) need most
  • How to build policies that balance safety and savings
  • Discounts available for students and safe drivers
  • Special considerations for expat drivers in NC

We're proud to collaborate with Jackie Forte and support a woman-owned business that’s making real change in our local driving culture. Together, we’re not just helping drivers pass the test—we’re helping families feel informed and protected from the start.


Driving Forward, Together

This partnership reflects our values: local, community-driven service with a commitment to safety and education. If you're interested in enrolling a student at Central Carolina Driving School or want to learn more about how your insurance could be affected (or improved!) by new drivers in your household, we’d love to talk.


Because when drivers are safer, we’re all safer.


Want help reviewing your auto policy or have a teen starting driving school soon?
📞 Call us today or get a quote—we’re here to help you navigate the road ahead.

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