With increasing prices of everything from gas to college tuition, some students are wondering if the $300 price tag for driver’s education is fair.

“I think that [the price is] very fair. $300 for the convenience and the quality of instructors and fully certified teachers is worth it,” said Tom Reagan, driver’s education teacher.

The prices, however, have increased considerably over the years. At first, the behind the wheel fee was $50, then $150. It has been $300 for the last three years.

“The prices went up because gas prices have gotten higher over the years,” said Dan Strickler, driver’s education teacher.

Gas is not the only reason the behind the wheel fees are so high. The two driver’s education cars, which are rented from Marquardt of Barrington, require money to cover their maintenance, insurance, equipment, gas and any other physical needs. But the high price of $300 does not even cover all necessary expenses. The district also must contribute to the behind the wheel program costs.

“I think that [the prices] are too much, considering they used to be $50 years ago,” said Maria Drinis, sophomore. Drinis is not the only student who thinks that LZ’s driver’s education fees are too high.



Taking behind the wheel privately is more costly than taking it at LZHS. The cost of taking driver’s education at a private facility is generally $50-$100 more expensive than in school. Many students take the course privately because it can be completed in a shorter amount of time.

“Taking driver’s education privately was easier because behind the wheel sessions were an hour and a half and there were only four sessions. The times were also picked by me, when it was most convenient,” said Monica Rodriguez, sophomore.

“There have been tons of complaints, but taking driver’s education in school is better,” said Strickler.