Exeter car dealers kickstart NH Driver Education Fund with $25K donation

CONCORD — A New Hampshire Driver Education Fund has been established to enhance access to affordable and accessible driver education programs.

The fund, initiated by the NH Division of Motor Vehicles, NH Auto Dealers Association, NH Driver Education Teachers Association, and the NH Commission for Human Rights, aims to raise $100,000 to support families with the cost of driver education programs.

The Exeter Area New Car Dealers Association recently kickstarted the fund with a $25,000 donation.

“We know that well-trained and educated drivers are safer drivers,” explains Dan Bennett, president of the NH Auto Dealers Association. “We also are seeing a rise in the number of accidents and incidents involving poor decisions, distraction, high emotions, high speeds, and other factors. Now more than ever, we need to ensure drivers, especially our newest drivers, have the right training and the right mindset for getting behind the wheel of a vehicle.”

The NH Driver Education Fund is available statewide, primarily targeting families with teenage, driving-aged children, though it is not limited to them. The funds can be accessed through an online application process. Based on need, recipients can receive partial or full scholarships to cover the one-time cost of a local driver education course.

“The NH Driver Education Fund represents a significant stride towards mobility and independence for many of our residents. With generous support from the private sector, we can extend the opportunity to secure a driver's license to those who might otherwise face financial barriers,” said John Marasco, director of the NH DMV. “This initiative not only facilitates personal freedom but also enhances community connectivity and economic opportunities.”

The NH Driver Education Teachers Association knows first-hand the financial barriers some families face when exploring driver education. Courses can cost several hundred dollars.

“The NH Driver Education Fund is a crucial development for our community, ensuring that economic hurdles do not hinder our students' ability to learn to start their driving career with a solid foundation toward being safe on the roads,” explained Mike Doucette, president of the NH Driver Education Teachers Association.

For many, driving is more than a mode of transportation; it’s a pathway to equitable opportunities in education, employment, and healthcare.

“The NH Driver Education Fund embodies our commitment to advancing inclusivity and human rights in New Hampshire,” said Ahni Malachi, executive director of the NH Commission for Human Rights. “By removing financial obstacles, we are empowering individuals and fostering a more inclusive society where everyone has the chance to thrive."

For more information on how to apply for a scholarship or contribute to the fund, visit nhdrivered.com .

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Exeter car dealers kickstart NH Driver Education Fund with $25K donation