Dearborn Warns Driving Schools To Make Sure Students Pass Coursework

DEARBORN, MI — Dearborn leaders warned local driving schools to make sure students adequately pass the courses and are fit to drive on roads.

Officials warned there may be "criminal and civil repercussions" for the driving school and the driver if they are passed without meeting the required criteria, including classroom hours and training behind the wheel.

The warning comes as city leaders said they have received reports and concerns that some local driving schools are fraudulently passing students.

"Compromising safety for any reason is unacceptable," Dearborn Police Chief Issa Shahin said.

Fraudulent certifications are a risk to public safety, officials added.

Officials urged driving schools to review their current training and certification procedures to ensure full compliance with all Michigan regulations, including:

• Maintaining accurate records is crucial.
• Evaluations should accurately reflect a student's ability to operate a vehicle safely.
• No shortcuts should be taken.
• Refusing to certify any student who has not successfully completed all requirements.

The city leaders offered additional conversations and support to driving schools going forward.

"Our community's safety also depends on properly trained, knowledgeable drivers familiar with the State of Michigan requirements and standards through a comprehensive driving school education program. We want to ensure that we are engaging all parties, including driving schools, in trying to tackle speeding and reckless driving in our city. By working together, we can ensure the safety and well-being of our community," Dearborn Mayor Abdullah Hammoud said.