Knox Public Health has announced the opening of the Drive to Succeed Scholarship Program, funded by a $142,000 grant from the Ohio Traffic Safety Office. This initiative aims to provide driver’s education training scholarships for income-eligible teenagers aged 18 to 20. Applications are open until June 2026 or until funds are depleted.
The program is designed to assist young drivers in meeting new requirements set to begin on September 30, 2025. At that time, Ohio residents aged 18 to 20 will need to complete 50 hours of supervised driving practice and an Ohio-approved "Class D" driver training course before obtaining a driver's license. More information can be found at https://otso.ohio.gov/programs/ohio-driver-training/for-drivers/under-21-driver-training/under-21-driver-training.
Eligibility for the scholarship requires applicants to be students or residents of Knox County or nearby counties such as Richland, Licking, Morrow, Ashland, Holmes, Coshocton, and Delaware. Homeschooled students may also apply if they meet income guidelines. Applicants must be between ages 15 and 20 and not already possess a driver's license or have taken a driver's education class.
Applicants must provide documentation of financial eligibility through programs like School reduced/free lunch, WIC/SNAP, or Medicaid Recipient. A letter of recommendation from a non-family member is also required. Completed applications should be sent to Mike Whitaker at [email protected] or delivered to Knox Public Health in Mount Vernon.
Selected recipients will arrange their driver’s education with approved schools such as Coshocton Driver Training School and Confident Driving Academy. A $25 deposit may be needed at testing centers.
Scholarship recipients must attend all classes and complete surveys from the Ohio Traffic Safety Office before and after their courses. For applications and further details, visit knoxhealth.com or contact Mike Whitaker at [email protected] or call 740-392-2200 ext. 2233.
