Developing and evaluating the feasibility and usability of desktop simulator-based driver training for international college students seeking a US driver’s license: a pilot study

Desktop simulator-based driver training was perceived feasible, acceptable, and helpful to train international college students seeking their first US driver's license. Few participants struggled with simulator use due to language barriers and limited prior driving experience. Participants also highlighted key challenges faced in obtaining a US driver's license and adapting to US driving. This research is among the first to explore the use of desktop simulator-based novice driver training for this population, and offers a foundation for future development of relevant driver training programs. Our next steps will involve finalizing the development of the training program and empirically testing its effectiveness in improving the success in passing the road test and reducing post-licensure real-world risky driving behaviors.