Driving plays an important part in maintaining an active, rewarding lifestyle. It means independence, freedom, and the pursuit of happiness at any age. The California Highway Patrol understands how much seniors enjoy driving, and offers a program designed to help extend their driving years.

“Our ultimate goal is saving lives in California,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow. “To help accomplish this mission, our personnel are taking the ‘Age Well, Drive Smart’ program out into California’s senior communities. Not only is this program intended to save lives, but it is one way to help older motorists drive as long as possible.”

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The recent receipt of a federal grant will enable the CHP to continue to offer this valuable traffic safety program to California’s growing senior population through September 30, 2012.

AgeWell, Drive Smart” is a free, two-hour senior driver safety/mobility class offered by the CHP and focuses on educating drivers, aged 65 years and over. Individuals can register for the course by contacting their local CHP office.

The Keeping Everyone Safe (KEYS) III grant will also help fund a public awareness campaign using a variety of available tools to address older adult driving issues. In addition, educational materials will be produced and distributed statewide. CHP personnel will also conduct educational presentations at various venues and will staff traffic safety booths at community events.

“Continued education through a program like this is an excellent way to help extend your driving years,” added Commissioner Farrow.

Funding for the KEYS III grant is provided by the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.