COLUMBUS — Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Public Safety Director Andy Wilson announced Monday the launch of a free, state-supported mobile app that provides real-time driving feedback for practicing drivers.

“Inexperience is the number one factor in teen driver crashes and the best way to overcome it is with quality practice,” Wilson said. “This new tool is turning that practice time into life-saving experience. The goal is simple: to give every new driver the skills and confidence they need to stay safe, not just during their first year on the road, but for every mile they drive.”

According to a new study by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, more driving practice during the learner’s permit phase can help reduce crash and near-crash incidents for teen drivers. The app is designed to be managed by the adult supervising the drive and includes safety features that discourage distracted driving.

The launch of the new RoadReady Ohio app coincides with the effective date of a new law passed by the Ohio General Assembly and signed by DeWine that requires more drivers to obtain a learner’s permit before getting a license. Beginning today, those ages 18, 19 and 20 will be held to the same training standards as 16- and 17-year-olds who are seeking a driver’s license. Previously, those 18 and older could get a license without any driving experience.

This initiative is part of Ohio’s broader traffic safety strategy to reduce roadway deaths and injuries. Earlier this year, DeWine introduced a new media campaign and website aimed at parents of teen drivers. Since it was launched in May, the TeachYourTeentoDrive.ohio.gov website has had over 69,000 unique visitors. The website also includes a link to a free online course to help parents successfully navigate the learning-to-drive process. So far, over 340 visitors have completed this parent orientation course.