Ups and Downs: 10 Tips for Driving in the Mountains

Snow-covered peaks! Crystal blue alpine lakes! Cascading waterfalls! Driving in the mountains can be breathtaking—but it also demands extra attention, patience, and skill. Here’s a practical, easy-to-follow guide to help you stay safe and confident on those winding roads.

1. Slow Down

Mountain roads often have sharp curves, steep grades, and limited visibility. Even if the speed limit seems reasonable, reduce your speed to match the road conditions. If the road looks like a roller coaster, don’t drive it like one.

2. Master the Curves

- Brake before entering a curve, not while you are in the curve.
- Look through (past) the turn to where you want the car to go.
- Stay in your lane—hugging the center line can be dangerous.

3. Use Lower Gears on Descents

Riding your brakes downhill can overheat them and reduce stopping power. Shift to a lower gear by shifting from “D” to “3” or “2” gear; this will help your engine to control the speed of your vehicle.

4. Don’t Speed Up When You Are Going Uphill

Steep climbs require steady acceleration—not aggressive speeding. Press the gas smoothly to maintain traction and control.

5. Watch for Changing Conditions

Mountain weather can shift fast:

- Fog can reduce visibility in seconds.
- Rain or snow makes roads slick.
- Falling rocks or debris may appear unexpectedly.

6. Keep a Safe Following Distance

Give yourself extra space between you and the car ahead—especially on steep slopes when it takes longer to stop.

7. Use Escape Ramps (Runaway Truck Ramps) When Needed

They’re not just for trucks—they’re your “plan B” if things get a little too exciting. If vehicles are piling up behind you or you are feeling like your vehicle is getting out of control, pull over at a designated runaway truck ramp and let the traffic pass. It keeps traffic flowing, reduces stress and can prevent accidents. 

Yes. Any vehicle experiencing brake failure or unable to slow down on a steep grade can—and should—use a runaway truck ramp to avoid a crash.

8. Use Headlights Wisely

Keep your headlights on in fog, rain, or tunnels—even during the day—so others can see you more clearly.

9. Be on the Lookout for Wildlife

Animals like deer can suddenly cross the road, especially at dawn or dusk. Stay alert and scan the roadside.

10. Check Your Vehicle Before You Go

- Are your brakes in good condition?
- Are the tires properly inflated with good tread?
- Do you have a full tank of gas (stations can be far apart)?

Mountain driving isn’t about rushing—it’s about control, awareness, and enjoying the journey safely. Take your time, stay calm, and let the road guide you and your passengers safely. 

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

DIY Interior Car Detailing: Step-by-Step Guide

Have you ever climbed into someone else's vehicle and immediately felt like you were sitting in a dumpster? Yep, it does not take long for one wrapper on the floorboards to morph into a rat's nest on wheels. You may find yourself determined to never let your car even start down that road. But how can you keep your vehicle calm and serene in its neatness without paying for expensive detailing?

Interior detailing removes dirt, dust, and odors while protecting surfaces from wear and fading. With the right tools and a simple process, you can detail your car’s interior effectively at home.

Essential Interior Detailing Tools and Products

Before starting, gather these basic supplies:

√ Vacuum with hose attachments
√ Microfiber cloths
√ Interior cleaner or all-purpose cleaner
√ Glass cleaner
√ Upholstery cleaner
√ Leather cleaner and conditioner (for leather seats)
√ Interior protectant for plastic and vinyl surfaces
√ Small detailing brushes

These tools allow you to clean delicate surfaces without causing damage.

Step 1: Remove Trash and Personal Items

Before cleaning, remove trash and personal items. This includes water bottles, snack wrappers, and any mysterious items that may have been living under the seat since last year. Yes, everything! Clean out all of the following, including all contents of the trunk and glove compartment:

√ Trash
√ Personal belongings
√ Loose change
√ Water bottles
√ Floor mats
√ That tangle of cords

Clearing the space allows you to reach every surface during cleaning.

Step 2: Vacuum the Interior

Vacuum the entire interior thoroughly. Vacuuming the interior often reveals things you forgot you owned—loose change, old receipts, and sometimes fries that have clearly seen better days. Focus on these areas:

1. Carpets
2. Floor mats
3. Seat surfaces
4. Under the seats
5. Door pockets
6. Center console

Use smaller vacuum attachments to reach tight areas and crevices.

Step 3: Clean Dashboard and Interior Surfaces

Use an interior cleaner or all-purpose cleaner to wipe down these areas:

1. Dashboard
2. Door panels
3. Steering wheel
4. Center console
5. Interior trim

Note: Soft detailing brushes work well for cleaning air vents, buttons, seams, and tight corners. 

Avoid overly shiny products that can create glare on the dashboard.

Step 4: Clean the Seats

Cleaning methods depend on the seat material.

Cloth seats: 1) Apply upholstery cleaner, 2), Gently scrub using a soft brush, and 3) Blot dry with microfiber towels.

Leather seats: 1) Use a leather cleaner designed for automotive interiors. 2) Apply leather conditioner afterward to keep the leather soft and prevent cracking.

Step 5: Clean Interior Glass

Interior windows can develop a film caused by plastic materials and airflow. Use glass cleaner and a microfiber towel to clean:

1. Interior windshield
2. Side windows
3. Rear window

Tip: Buff the glass with a second towel to remove streaks.

Step 6: Reinstall Floor Mats and Finish Up

Once the interior surfaces are clean:

1. Reinstall floor mats.
2. Apply interior protectant to plastics if desired.
3. Perform a final inspection for missed spots.

Do you want an air freshener?

Some do. Some don't. Choosing a car air freshener involves balancing scent preference, longevity, and type—such as vent clips for strong distribution, gels for long-lasting aroma, or sprays for quick fixes. Top choices include Pura Car Pro (smart), Drift (natural), and Air Spencer Squash (long-lasting). Prioritize subtle, non-toxic scents to avoid headaches and ensure they don't block visibility.  

Done!

After detailing the interior, take a moment to enjoy the result. Your car now smells better, looks better, and your passengers will love the uncluttered peace.

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

New Drivers: How to Overcome Anxiety While Driving

Feeling anxious as a new driver is extremely common—your brain is just trying to keep you safe in a situation that still feels unfamiliar. (It’s basically your brain saying, “Hey… are we sure about this?”) The goal isn’t to eliminate anxiety overnight, but to gradually make driving feel predictable and manageable.

Here’s how to work through it in a practical, step-by-step way:

1. Start Small and Controlled

            -Don’t jump straight onto highways or busy intersections.

            -Begin driving in empty parking lots or quiet neighborhoods.

            -Drive at off-peak hours (early morning or late evening).

            -Repeat the same short routes until they feel boring.

This builds familiarity, which reduces anxiety. 

2. Use Gradual Exposure

This is a key approach based on the psychological concept of Exposure Therapy. Think of driving like leveling up. No one starts at “expert mode”—and that’s the point.

             -Level 1: Empty parking lot

             -Level 2: Quiet streets

             -Level 3: Moderate traffic

             -Level 4: Highways

Only move up when the previous level feels comfortable—not perfect, just manageable.

3. Control Your Anxiety Before you Drive

Try these tricks before and during driving:

              -Slow breathing: inhale 4 seconds, exhale 6 seconds.

              -Relax your shoulders and your grip on the steering wheel.

              -Keep your eyes moving across the road (don’t fixate on one thing).

If your shoulders are up by your ears, it’s time to reset. This will calm your nervous system quickly.

4. Change Your Self-Talk

New drivers often think: “I’m going to mess up!” or “Everyone is judging me!”

Replace that with thoughts like: “I’m learning.” and “Other drivers don’t care as much as I think.”

Your brain listens to what you repeatedly tell it.

5. Practice With a Calm Companion

Drive with someone who:

           -Doesn’t overreact and gives clear, simple directions.

           -Makes you feel safe, not pressured.

Avoid people who make you more nervous—even if they’re experienced drivers.

6. Know That Mistakes Are Normal

Even experienced drivers miss turns, take a moment to react, or brake suddenly and get honked at. Mistakes don’t mean you’re a bad driver—they’re part of becoming a good one.

7. Have a “Pull-Over Plan”

If your anxiety spikes:

          -Signal and pull into a safe area.

          -Take a minute to breathe.

          -Reset and continue when ready.

Knowing you can pull off the road and pause can be a huge anxiety-reducer. 

8. Limit Overstimulation

Early on, keep things simple. No loud music, no phone distractions, and avoid complicated routes. Focusing on the road builds confidence faster.

9. Be Consistent

Driving once a week keeps anxiety high. Even short drives help.

         -Trying to drive 10–15 minutes daily will lower your anxiety. 

         -Consistency trains your brain by telling it, “This is normal.”

Confidence comes from repetition while slightly uncomfortable.

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

Which States Use Digital Driver’s Licenses?

Digital driver’s licenses (often called mobile driver’s licenses or mDLs) are transforming how people carry and present identification. Instead of relying solely on a physical card, drivers can now store a secure, digital version of their license on a smartphone or smartwatch. But where are these digital IDs actually available—and how widely are they accepted?

Let’s break it down.

What Is a Digital Driver’s License?

A digital driver’s license is an electronic version of your state-issued ID stored in a secure app, typically within your phone’s digital wallet. These IDs use encryption and biometric authentication (like Face ID or fingerprint) to protect your personal information.

Unlike simply taking a photo of your license, an official digital ID is issued and verified by your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency.

States That Currently Offer Digital Driver’s Licenses

As of early 2026, several U.S. states have launched digital driver’s license programs, either fully available or in limited rollout.

Fully Available or Widely Implemented

1. Arizona – One of the first states to adopt digital IDs, integrated with major mobile wallets.
2. Colorado – Offers a state-specific app for secure digital ID storage.
3. Georgia – Available through compatible smartphone wallet systems.
4. Maryland – Provides digital IDs with growing acceptance.
5. Utah – Early adopter with broad in-state usability.

Available or Expanding Programs

1. California – Pilot program expanding to more users.
2. Iowa – Rolling out mobile ID options.
3. Kentucky – Gradual implementation underway.
4. Oklahoma – Offers a mobile ID app for residents.

Many other states are actively developing or testing digital license programs. The following states may launch full programs in the near future as technology and regulations continue to evolve.

1. Florida
2. New York
3. Texas
4. Virginia
5. Washington

Don’t see your state on these lists? Keep checking. Some states are all-in on digital licenses, while others are taking a ‘let’s watch how this goes first’ approach.

Where Can You Use a Digital License?

Even in states that offer digital licenses, acceptance is still growing. Currently, you may be able to use a digital ID in the following situations:

1. Airport security (TSA checkpoints) at select airports
2. Traffic stops (in participating states)
3. Retail or age verification at some businesses
4. Government services or identity verification apps

However, not all law enforcement agencies or businesses accept digital IDs yet, so it’s important to carry your physical license as a backup.

Limitations to Keep in Mind

1. Limited acceptance: Not universally recognized yet
2. Device dependency: Requires a charged and functioning smartphone
3. State-by-state variation: Availability and features differ widely

For now, think of your digital license as a convenient supplement—not a replacement for your physical ID. Digital driver’s licenses are the future—just don’t toss your physical one yet. The future is still buffering.

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

5 Tips for Choosing Vehicle Insurance

Choosing the right vehicle insurance can help you save money and protect you financially if something goes wrong. But aren't all insurance companies and insurance coverage alike? No. You need to do your research. Pick an insurance company and an insurance policy that is right for you. 

Here are 5 practical tips to help you pick the best policy.

1. First, understand the types of coverage and choose coverage based on your car’s value, your budget, and your risk level.

 Liability Coverage – Pays for damage or injuries you cause to others.
 Collision Coverage – Covers damage to your car from an accident. 
 Comprehensive Coverage – Covers non-accident events like theft, fire, or storms.

Think of insurance coverage like layers of clothing—liability is your T-shirt, collision is your jacket, and comprehensive is the umbrella you didn’t think you’d need… until you really do.

2. Then, compare quotes from multiple insurers

Prices vary widely between companies. Well-known insurers like GEICO, State Farm, Progressive Corporation, and Allstate often offer different rates for similar coverage. Getting several quotes helps you find the best price for the same protection.

3. Next, check the deductible amount

The deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before insurance covers the rest.

The higher the deductible → The lower the monthly premium 
The lower the deductible →  The higher the monthly premium     

4. Next, look for Discounts

 Many insurers offer discounts such as:

Safe driver discount
Multi-policy discount (home + auto)
Good student discount 
Low mileage discount

These discounts can significantly reduce your annual premium. Ask your insurance agent if you qualify (or could qualify) for these sorts of discounts.  

5. Last but not least, review the insurer’s reputation

An insurance company might sound great—until you actually need them. That’s when reviews suddenly become very important. Check the following:

1. Their customer reviews
2. Their claim settlement process
3. Their financial strength rating

Tip: Review your insurance every year. If your driving habits, vehicle, or financial situation changes, you might find a better deal.

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

DIY Exterior Car Detailing: Step-by-Step Guide

Are you the kind of person who names their vehicles, obsesses about them, and is extremely snobby about what type of car wash you subject them to? If so, this article is for you! It will help you to wash your "Eleanor" with TLC.

With the right tools and proper cleaning sequence, you can achieve professional-quality results right at home. The key to successful exterior detailing is working in the correct order so you avoid spreading dirt to areas you have already cleaned.

Tools and Products

Before getting started, gather the proper supplies. Using quality tools helps prevent scratches and makes the process easier. Recommended tools and products include:

√ Two buckets (one for soapy water and one for rinsing)

Note: In case you are wondering, the rinsing bucket is for rinsing the wash mitt between periods of washing, it is not for rinsing the actual vehicle. Of course you can use a hose to rinse the vehicle!

√ Microfiber wash mitt

√ Car wash soap (pH balanced)

√ Wheel cleaner

√ Wheel brush and tire brush

√ Microfiber drying towels

√ Clay bar or clay mitt

√ Automotive wax or paint sealant

√ Tire shine or tire dressing

√ Soft detailing brushes

√ Hose or pressure washer

Step 1: Clean the Wheels and Tires First

The wheels and tires are usually the dirtiest parts of a vehicle. Always start here so brake dust and grime do not splash onto freshly washed paint.

Cleaning process

1. Rinse wheels and tires with water.
2. Apply wheel cleaner designed for your wheel type.
3. Use a wheel brush to clean inside the spokes and wheel barrel.
4. Scrub the tire sidewalls with a tire brush.
5. Rinse thoroughly.

Non-acid wheel cleaners and dedicated tire cleaners work best for this step.

Step 2: Pre-Rinse the Vehicle

Next, rinse the entire vehicle to remove loose dirt and debris. This reduces the chance of scratching the paint during washing.

Focus on areas where dirt tends to accumulate:

1. Wheel wells
2. Lower door panels
3. Front bumper
4. Rear trunk area

A hose with good pressure or a pressure washer works well for this step.

Step 3: Wash the Vehicle Using the Two-Bucket Method

The two-bucket method is one of the best ways to prevent swirl marks and scratches. One bucket contains soapy water, and the second contains clean rinse water. Wash from top to bottom in this order:

1. Roof
2. Windows
3. Hood and trunk
4. Upper doors
5. Lower doors and panels
6. Bumpers

After each section, rinse your wash mitt in the rinse bucket before dipping it back into the soap bucket. This keeps dirt from returning to the vehicle’s paint. Think of it as giving your sponge a quick shower before sending it back to work.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry the Vehicle

After washing, rinse the vehicle completely. Dry the vehicle immediately to prevent water spots. What should you use to dry? Use large microfiber drying towels. Avoid using old rags because they can actually scratch the paint surface.

Step 5: Remove Contaminants with a Clay Bar

Even after washing, tiny contaminants may still be bonded to the paint surface. These may include tree sap and road tar. A clay bar or clay mitt helps remove these particles. If you’ve never used a clay bar before, the first time can be surprising. The paint may look clean, but the clay will still pull contaminants off the surface. It’s a little like discovering how much dust is hiding under your couch. How do you use a clay bar? Follow the instructions for the product you buy. You may even want to watch a YouTube video. The basic idea is that you 1) Spray clay lubricant on the surfacem 2) Gently glide the clay over the paint, and then 3) Wipe the surface clean with a microfiber towel.

Step 6: Apply Wax or Paint Sealant

Wax or paint sealant protects your vehicle’s paint and enhances shine. Some common options include carnauba wax or synthetic paint sealants for longer protection. Here again, follow the product instructions. Wax protection usually lasts for about 3 months or less, whereas sealant can last for up to six months.

Step 7: Clean Exterior Glass

Finish by cleaning all exterior glass surfaces using a streak-free automotive glass cleaner and microfiber towels. Clean the windshield, side windows, rear glass, and mirrors. For best results, spray cleaner onto the towel instead of directly onto the glass.

Eleanor is worth it!

Yes, this is a lot of work, but doing it yourself can easily save you over $200 per trip to a commercial detailer. Plus you get to baby your vehicle, maintaining their appearance and paint condition for years to come!

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

10 Best Safe, Reliable, and Affordable Cars in America 2026

Here are some of the 10 best safe, reliable, and affordable cars in America (based on data from safety agencies like IIHS, Consumer Reports reliability surveys, and price/value rankings). These vehicles generally start around $22k–$30k new and have strong long-term value. 

Cars from Toyota, Honda, Mazda, Subaru and Hyundai usually dominate reliability rankings because they have fewer expensive mechanical problems, are generally considered moderately priced, and have lower long-term ownership costs. These models are also widely praised for reliability, safety tech, and reasonable prices, according to reliability studies and consumer testing.

1. Toyota Corolla

Synopsis: Inexpensive to buy, hard to break, and great on gas mileage. This car is said to outlive you, your dog, and probably your house.

The Toyota Corolla is widely considered one of the most reliable vehicles in the world, consistently ranking at the top of its class for dependability. It boasts low ownership costs, with an average annual repair cost of a little over $300 a year. With proper maintenance, it is common for a Toyota Corolla to last over 200,000 to 300,000 miles.

2. Honda Civic

Synopsis:  Affordable, fun to drive, and great safety ratings. Considered the official car of responsible people who are still cool. 

The Honda Civic is widely considered one of the most reliable compact cars. Known for longevity, many models last over 200,000–300,000 miles, with low annual repair costs of a little over $300 a year.  The key strengths of a Honda Civic include fuel efficiency and durable engines. 

3. Toyota Camry

Synopsis: Mid-price sedan, extremely reliable, excellent safety tech. The Camry is basically the immortal cockroach of cars—it refuses to die. This vehicle just keeps running.

The Toyota Camry is consistently rated as one of the most reliable midsize sedans, often lasting over 200,000–300,000 miles with proper maintenance. It boasts high dependability scores and low ownership costs, with few unexpected repairs. 

4. Subaru Impreza

Synopsis: The Standard Subaru Impreza is AWD (All Wheel Drive). It has strong reliability ratings and is known as an affordable compact.  It is perfect for people who want to survive snow, Florida rainstorms, and zombies. 

The Subaru Impreza generally has average to good reliability, with a typical lifespan of 150,000 to 200,000 miles, making it a solid choice for longevity if properly maintained. The Impreza has an annual repair cost averaging a little over $600 per year. Major strengths include excellent AWD capability and safety. 

5. Mazda3

Synopsis: Budget-friendly, luxury-looking interior, excellent safety features.  Looks like a luxury car, but it costs more like a normal human car. 

The Mazda3 has excellent long-term reliability, frequently ranking among the top compact cars for dependability and low ownership costs. With proper maintenance, they can last 200,000–300,000 miles.

6. Toyota Prius

Synopsis: 50+ MPG (miles per gallon), legendary reliability. You’ll spend so little on gas that you might forget where the gas station is.

The Toyota Prius is widely considered one of the most reliable vehicles on the road, with a strong reputation for longevity often exceeding 200,000–250,000 miles with basic maintenance. Also worth mentioning is the low annual ownership costs, while modern generations of the Prius are consistently ranked among the most dependable new cars. 

7. Hyundai Elantra

Synopsis: Very affordable, lots of tech for the price, good safety ratings. It comes with more screens than your living room.

The Hyundai Elantra is generally considered a highly reliable, cost-effective compact car, with the newer models of (2021–2025). These vehicles often last 100,000–200,000+ miles with proper maintenance. 

8. Kia Forte

Synopsis: Budget champion, strong warranty.  The warranty lasts longer than most friendships. The National Highway and Safety Administration gave the 2024 Kia Forte an overall 4-star rating.

The Kia Forte is highly reliable, frequently ranked in the top 10 for compact cars. It typically has low annual maintenance costs with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Owners often see over 150,000–200,000 miles with proper maintenance. 

9. Subaru Crosstrek

Synopsis: Small SUV (sport utility vehicle), standard AWD (all wheel drive), high reliability. The perfect car for people who think they might go hiking… someday.

The Subaru Crosstrek generally boasts high reliability, ranking 1st out of 26 compact SUVs. It is lauded for low, infrequent repair costs and was recently named the "Most Dependable Small SUV". It is considered a durable, low-maintenance vehicle, with newer models (2020-2024) showing improved reliability. 

10. Toyota Corolla Cross

Synopsis: Small SUV (sport utility vehicle), affordable, excellent reliability.  It’s basically a Corolla that hit the gym and became an SUV.

The Toyota Corolla Cross boasts high reliability and has a strong reputation as a dependable compact SUV. It utilizes proven Toyota powertrains and, specifically in its hybrid form, offers a robust system with low maintenance costs, making it a safe, long-lasting choice in its class.

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

How to Check if Your Car Has a Recall (Free VIN Lookup Guide)

No doubt you have seen a warning for some specific type of packaged food. For example, a prepackaged meal may contain undeclared allergens, such as peanuts. They may not actually have any peanuts in them, but because of the risk involved, a recall has been issued. Something similar happens with vehicles. 

Vehicle recalls happen more often than many drivers realize. In fact, millions of vehicles are recalled every year—so there’s a decent chance your car might eventually get a “call back.” These vehicles are recalled due to safety defects or problems that could affect the safe operation of the vehicle. Fortunately, checking for a recall is quick, free, and easy. Knowing whether your vehicle has an open recall can help protect you, your passengers, and others on the road.

What Is a Vehicle Recall?

A vehicle recall occurs when a manufacturer or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) determines that a vehicle, equipment, or component contains a safety defect or does not meet federal safety standards. When this happens, the manufacturer must notify vehicle owners and fix the problem at no cost. Common reasons for recalls include: defective airbags, brake system failures, steering problems, electrical issues, and seat belt malfunctions. Some recalls involve minor fixes, while others address serious safety risks that could lead to crashes or injuries.

Why Recalls Matter

Ignoring a recall can put drivers and passengers at risk. A defect may not cause problems right away, but it could fail when you least expect it. Recalls are issued because engineers and safety investigators have determined that a defect could increase the risk of a crash or injury.

Repairing a recalled vehicle is free at authorized dealerships, so there is no financial reason to delay addressing the issue. That’s right—this may be one of the few things in life that really is free.

How to Check if Your Vehicle Has a Recall

The easiest way to check for a recall is by using your vehicle identification number (VIN). Your VIN is a unique 17-character code assigned to your vehicle. You can find your VIN in several places:

On the dashboard near the windshield (driver’s side)

Inside the driver-side door frame

On your vehicle registration or title

On your insurance documents

Once you have your VIN, visit the official government recall website.

NHTSA Recall Lookup: https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls

Simply enter your VIN, and the system will tell you if your vehicle has any open safety recalls that have not yet been repaired.

What to Do if Your Vehicle Has a Recall

If your vehicle has an open recall, take action as soon as possible.

1. Contact your local dealership that sells your vehicle’s brand.
2. Schedule a recall repair appointment.
3. Bring your vehicle in for the repair.
4. The repair will be completed free of charge, even if your vehicle is older or out of warranty.

What if You Never Received a Recall Notice?

Manufacturers send recall notices to the address listed on the vehicle registration. If you moved or purchased a used vehicle, you may not receive those notices. That is why it is a good idea to check your VIN periodically, especially if you buy a used car.

Recalls Apply to More Than Just Cars

Vehicle recalls can affect many types of vehicles and equipment, including: passenger cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, motorcycles, car seats, child safety seats, and vehicle tires. 

Checking for recalls is an important safety step for any vehicle owner.

Final Thoughts

Vehicle recalls are issued to keep drivers safe. By taking a few minutes to check your VIN online, you can find out if your vehicle has an open recall and get it repaired quickly and at no cost. Staying informed about recalls helps ensure your vehicle remains safe and reliable for every trip you take.

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

How to Drive Near a Funeral Procession

A funeral procession (or motorcade) is a line of vehicles traveling together from a funeral service to the burial site. The lead vehicle is often a hearse, followed by family members and other funeral attendees. Those traveling in a funeral procession may be dealing with intense grief. As a driver, how can you keep them safe and avoid adding frustration to an already sad day?

Driving near a funeral procession requires extra caution, patience, and respect. Laws vary by state, but etiquette and safety principles are consistent nationwide.

How can you spot a funeral procession? 

- Most of the vehicles in a funeral procession will have their headlights and hazard lights on.

- Some of the vehicles might display small flags on antennas.

- Typically, you will see that these vehicles are escorted by police vehicles or funeral directors.

What should you do if you drive up to or are behind a funeral procession?

1. Always yield the right-of-way unless directed otherwise by a police officer. 

Note: In most states, funeral processions have the right of way at intersections—even if the traffic signal changes. Once the lead vehicle legally enters the intersection, the entire funeral procession may proceed. Do not cut into or through the line of vehicles in the funeral procession. 

2. If you are behind a funeral procession, do not pass. In many states, it is illegal to pass a funeral procession—especially on two-lane roads. Maintain a safe distance, and give the drivers in the procession extra space. Be patient—processions often travel below the speed limit.

3. On multi-lane roads or highways: You may pass carefully if it’s legal and safe.

Note: In some states, drivers traveling in the opposite direction on a two-lane road must pull over and stop until the procession passes (unless the road is divided by a median).

4. If you do pull over to stop, and if it is safe to do so, it is common courtesy to remove your sunglasses and turn off loud music as a sign of respect. 

What NOT to do when you approach a funeral procession

1. Avoid honking.

2. Do not enter the intersection. Police escorts may block cross traffic to allow safe passage.

3. Turn off loud music.

4. Avoid aggressive driving.

Be sure to know your state's laws regarding funeral processions. Depending on the state you are driving in, the penalties for failing to yield the right-of-way to a funeral procession may include traffic citations, fines, or points on your driver’s license.

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

What Is the VIN for Your vehicle?

If you’ve ever looked at your vehicle’s dashboard or door jamb, you’ve probably seen a long string of letters and numbers labeled VIN. While it may look random, your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is actually a highly structured code that tells a detailed story about your vehicle. Understanding your VIN can help with registration, insurance, recalls, parts ordering, theft prevention, and vehicle history checks. Let’s break it down.

What is a VIN?

A VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is a unique 17-character code assigned to every modern vehicle. No two vehicles share the same VIN. Think of it as your car’s fingerprint. Each section of the VIN has a specific meaning defined by international standards.

Example VIN: 1HGCM82633A123456

The VIN Structure Explained

The 17 characters are divided into three major sections:

1. World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) — Characters 1–3. These characters identify where the vehicle was built and who built it.

Character 1 – Country of Origin. Indicates the country where the vehicle was manufactured. (Examples: 1, 4, 5 → United States, 2 → Canada, 3 → Mexico, J → Japan, K → Korea, W → Germany

Character 2 – Manufacturer. Identifies the vehicle brand or maker.

Character 3 – Vehicle Type / Division. Further specifies the manufacturer or vehicle category.

2. Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS) — Characters 4–9. This portion describes the vehicle’s design and features. It may include information such as: Body style, Engine type, Transmission, Model or series, Restraint system

Character 9 – Check Digit (Important!). Used to verify that the VIN is valid. It helps detect fraudulent or mistyped VINs.

3. Vehicle Identifier Section (VIS) — Characters 10–17. This section uniquely identifies the specific vehicle.

Character 10 – Model Year. This indicates the vehicle’s model year using a standardized code. (Examples: A → 2010, B → 2011, C → 2012, D → 2013. Letters and numbers progress over time)

Character 11 – Assembly Plant. Shows where the vehicle was physically assembled.

Characters 12–17 – Serial Number. A unique production sequence number for that vehicle.

Why the VIN Matters

Your VIN plays a critical role in many aspects of vehicle ownership:

Recalls & Safety Notices – Manufacturers track defects by VIN

Insurance & Registration – Ensures correct vehicle identification

Vehicle History Reports – Accident and ownership records

Theft Prevention – Assists law enforcement

Parts & Repairs – Confirms exact vehicle configuration

Where Can You Find the VIN?

Most vehicles display the VIN in multiple locations:

Dashboard (visible through windshield)

Driver-side door frame / jamb

Vehicle title and registration

Insurance documents

Engine bay (sometimes)

Multiple VIN locations help prevent tampering.

Final Thoughts

While a VIN may seem like just a random code, it’s actually a carefully designed system that identifies your vehicle’s origin, build details, and uniqueness. Knowing how to read it can be surprisingly useful—especially when buying, selling, insuring, or repairing a vehicle.

Next time you see your VIN plate, you’ll know it’s more than just numbers—it’s your vehicle’s entire identity encoded in 17 characters.

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!