Subdivision 1.Authorization.

A licensed driver education program that provides both classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction may offer teleconference driver education as provided in this section. For purposes of this section, the driver education program must offer both classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction. If a program partners or contracts with a second program to provide any portion of classroom or behind-the-wheel instruction, the first program is not eligible to offer teleconference driver education instruction.

Subd. 2.Curriculum and instruction requirements.

(a) A teleconference driver education program must:

(1) meet the requirements as provided in section 171.0701, subdivision 1, and Minnesota Rules, chapter 7411, or successor rules;

(2) use teleconferencing, or another similar method, that provides live synchronous distance learning and ensures that student questions and comments can be addressed in real time;

(3) link all locations together with picture and sound;

(4) use classroom instruction curriculum identical to the curriculum used by the driver education program in an in-person setting;

(5) offer teleconference instruction to any student enrolled in the approved driver education program; and

(6) provide teleconference interactive supplemental parent curriculum consistent with section 171.0701, subdivision 1a.

(b) A student may receive teleconference instruction only if the driver education instructor verifies the student can interact with the instructor in real time with picture and sound.