Idaho Drivers License

Shop around before choosing a driver's education school

When choosing a driving school for your soon-to-be driver, the Better Business Bureau urges both parents and students to make smart, informed decisions.

A driver education course is designed to teach new drivers fundamental skills and basic knowledge about driving a motor vehicle. However, in the last two years, the BBB has received more than 700 complaints against driving instruction businesses, with complaints ranging from no-shows to customer service and sales practices.

The Better Business Bureau recommends the following when choosing a driving school:

• Check it out. For information on driving schools in your area, start your search at www.bbb.org for a free BBB Business Review that will help you make informed decisions.

• Ask around. Call several schools to find out about the course schedules, fees and registration procedures offered. Neighbors and friends can be a great resource, as well. Ask for references from previous students of the school. Remember, price is not the sole factor in choosing a driving school. You must compare instructional quality, class size and behind-the-wheel lessons.

• Visit the driving school. Ask to see classrooms and find out if you could observe part of a course.

Ask to see the course book. Is the text up to date? Are there enough textbooks for all students? The ideal course integrates behind-the-wheel and classroom training. Do not assume the fastest course is the way to go.

• Check the details. Find out if the school has a policy on make-up classes and refunds. Know how to file a complaint against the school and check to see how the school resolves its complaints.

Bottom line: Invest the time to research your options and make a wise choice.

I heard that the PIN pads on debit card machines had been tampered with at Michaels stores. Is it true, and should I be worried about using the machines?

You heard correctly. The company recently issued a news release saying 90 PIN pads showed signs of tampering. We’re talking about the credit or debit card unit where you slide your card at the checkout counter.

While Michaels didn’t release information of who tampered with the machines or the telltale signs, the company reports it took swift action by quarantining the units and removing 7,200 comparable models in other stores.

The company says its stores in Idaho were not involved. While it appears you have nothing to worry about in this case, never let your guard down.

AUDIO: Idaho begins program to roll out new driver's licenses

Idaho driver’s licenses and identification cards soon will have a new look, state-of-the-art security features, and a new way of being issued.

According to the Idaho Transportation Department’s Alan Frew, the cards, which begin to be issued in some parts of the state this month, will help protect against identity theft and fraud, with no additional cost to customers.

ITD spokesman Alan Frew talks about rolling out the new program for driver’s licenses.

Payette County will pilot the new system beginning Monday, and a second pilot is scheduled to begin a week later in Ada County.

The new cards incorporate numerous security features, including micro-printing, and a laser-perforated pattern that reveals the shape of Idaho when held to the light.

Frew comments on some of the changes in appearance of the driver’s license.

The switch also means cards will be issued from a central, secure location instead of at individual county offices – that’s already the case in neighboring states, including Washington, Oregon and Montana.

Susan Romero with the Ada County DMV says that, with the new process, people will no longer leave county licensing offices with a plastic card.

Ada County’s Susan Romero explains some differences with how licenses and ID cards are issued.