Drive Program at Operation Fresh Start

Drive

Free driver's education to earn your license

About Drive

OFS Drive is a free driver's education program in partnership with 4 Lakes Driver Training. You’ll complete 30 hours of coursework, obtain your permit, complete five behind-the-wheel lessons, then take the DMV road test to earn your license.

Earning your driver’s license will help you qualify for higher-paying jobs! Throughout the Drive program, OFS staff members will help you explore career options and make a plan to achieve your goals.

In 2025 OFS Drive will run programs in: February, April, July,

September, and November.

Now accepting applications for

our February Cohort.

Apply Now

Eligibility

Ages 18–24 in Dane County

Not currently attending high school

Program Outcomes

What are you looking to achieve? OFS Drive can help you reach all of these goals and more!

Free Driver's Education

Complete classroom instruction to learn the rules of the road and how to be a safe driver.

Hear from guest speakers about how to obtain car insurance, how to handle anxiety when driving, financial literacy tips, your rights behind the wheel, and more.

Complete six behind-the-wheel sessions.

Get help paying fines and overcoming barriers to obtaining a driver's license.

Classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel lessons are free! Operation Fresh Start also pays for all DMV permit and license fees!

Find a Mentor

OFS mentors help you build self-confidence, explore career options and build a clear pathway to achieve your goals.

Make community connections that will support your future.

More About the Drive Program

The State of Wisconsin stopped providing free driver’s education in high schools in 2004, making it difficult for many families to afford private instruction. Established in 2019, the Drive program aims to eliminate barriers to obtaining a driver’s license. If you have fines or tickets to pay off, OFS may be able to help you. Please apply.

Earning your license means you’ll qualify for higher-paying jobs with greater opportunities for career advancement. Behind a high school diploma – a driver’s license is the second most-required qualification for employment.