Driver's ed turns pro.

• Position: ON THE ROAD - Brief Article

There are some schools where a student's success depends on hitting the brakes instead of the books. Performance-driving schools--including those run by carmakers like BMW and Audi--are increasingly adding programs specifically designed for teenagers. Courses cost anywhere from $400 to $3,100 for up to three days with professional instructors, working on advanced maneuvers like quick lane changes, emergency braking at high speeds, and skid training. The schools say they're giving teenagers the skills they need to drive more safely. "In an accident-type situation, most people don't do enough,"...