More time online and fewer classroom hours are part of changes coming to MPI’s driver education program.

The “Driver Z” program will launch as a pilot project in 20 high schools across the province with a full roll-out expected in the fall.

Changes include a reduction in classroom time from 34 hours to 20 hours and an increase in supervised in-car practice with a co-pilot from the current 24 hours to 45 hours.

Students will have to successfully complete 12 hours of online work before the first class.

Students will also receive feedback on instructor-led in-car lessons which is aimed at helping co-pilot practice time.