Teens do almost everything else online these days, so why not driver's ed?

A bill that would allow the classroom portion of the driver's education program to be taken via the Internet passed this week in the House Transportation and Transit Policy and Oversight Division, reports the House Public Information Services office.

Even under the new proposal, the six-hour behind-the-wheel training would be taken in a real car with a real instructor.

Supporters say the online courses would be helpful for those who live far from training programs or want to take the classes at their convenience. Opponents wonder if it's a good idea, and ask whether students would pay attention outside a classroom.

Not surprisingly, the owner of a driving school objected, saying that classrooms offer more opportunity for discussion, practical demonstrations, guest speakers, local stories, interaction with other students and accountability. "The Internet can't deliver teaching moments," said Chip Hayssen of Safeway Driving School.

The bill has many more road to travel before becoming law.