Behind the Wheel

Smith System has reduced collisions and saved lives by teaching millions of drivers, in-person, how to lower risk and drive more safely.

We go beyond theory to show drivers how to spot hazards, make safer decisions, and build real-world skills where it matters most – on the road. In every class, each driver gets multiple turns behind the wheel, coached and graded individually by the instructor.

This successful approach is built upon the practice of precaution found in The Smith5Keys®:

  • Key 1 Aim high in steering.
  • Key 2 Get the big picture.
  • Key 3 Keep your eyes moving.
  • Key 4 Leave yourself an out.
  • Key 5 Make sure they see you.

Contact us directly for more information about our courses so that we can help you benefit from our Driver Risk Management solutions.

Behind the Wheel

Courses

We bring decades of experience to our in-person courses which have been proven to help drivers develop and maintain great driving behaviors.

For Drivers

  • Thumbnail for 5Keys Safe Driving

    5Keys Safe Driving

    Based on The Smith 5Keys®, our signature course uses real-world expertise to teach successful on-road driving. Course Details
  • Thumbnail for 5Keys Controlled Driving

    5Keys Controlled Driving

    (Formerly Known as Driving Dynamics) We use authentic scenarios to teach life-saving behaviors when confronting emergencies. Course Details
  • Thumbnail for 5Keys Backing

    5Keys Backing

    Most fleet crashes are backing collisions. The goal of this course is to change that. Course Details
  • Thumbnail for 5Keys Light Duty Trailer

    5Keys Light Duty Trailer

    Principles and techniques for those whose job requires hauling a trailer or operating a straight truck. Course Details

For Trainers

  • Thumbnail for 5Keys Trainer

    5Keys Trainer

    This course enables your in-house trainers to teach your drivers the most effective safety program in our industry. Course Details
  • Thumbnail for 5Keys Trainer Recertification

    5Keys Trainer Recertification

    Required for all Smith System trainers every two years to keep current and remain certified. Course Details

Join these esteemed companies that put Smith System to work in their fleets.

  • fedex.png
  • dhl.png
  • hertz.png
  • coca-cola.png
  • caterpillar.png
  • sysco.png

Let’s Get Started

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What does Behind the Wheel training include?

    In these courses, drivers deepen their knowledge with eLearning instruction, observe and train in a variety of driving maneuvers, receive personalized coaching behind the wheel, and depending upon the course, practice essential and specific driving skills like backing, parking, and navigating blind areas.
  2. What is the 5Keys Safe Driving program?

    5Keys Safe Driving is Smith System’s signature driver safety course. It combines in-person instruction with behind the wheel training based on The Smith5Keys®—a proven method for reducing crashes and improving driver performance.
  3. What types of drivers are these training programs designed for?

    These courses are ideal for fleet drivers in any industry – whether they operate delivery vans, tractor-trailers, utility vehicles or light duty fleet cars.  They are suitable for both new hires and experienced drivers needing refresher training.  These courses are also ideal and accessible for single drivers and small teams who are looking for industry-leading training programs.
  4. Can training be done at our company location?

    Yes. For most of our Behind the Wheel courses, when using our On-Site option, our certified instructors travel to your location, using your facilities and vehicles. This can minimize downtime and make scheduling easier for your team.
  5. What if I only have a few drivers to train?

    Our Open Enrollment option is perfect for smaller groups or remote team members. We provide the classroom, vehicle, and instructors—just register and show up ready to learn.
  6. How do we measure the effectiveness of the training?

    Upon completion, each trainee receives a Smith System certificate of completion, a written evaluation and skill improvement plan, and our Driver’s Study Guide. Fleet managers can use our on-line portal or our 5Keys Engage mobile app to track post-training metrics to assess the impact and effectiveness of the training.
  7. Do you offer a train-the-trainer program for in-house instructors?

    Yes. Our 5Keys Trainer certification program equips your in-house trainers with the skills and materials needed to teach The Smith5Keys to your entire fleet.
Our solutions build safer driving behaviors that last.
Let's Get Smith System Brand Dotted Line Started

Schedule a Call Today!