A new web site launching March 1 will allow Montgomery County high school students to complete a 30-hour driver education course online.

The driver training theory course will cost students $100 and is operated jointly by the Montgomery County Intermediate Unit (MCIU) and the Edward Savioz Driver Training School.

Upon completion of the course, students will receive a certificate that could entitle them to a 10 percent premium discount with some auto insurance carriers. The course, which has been approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, may also grant students 0.25 academic credits, depending upon the policy of their local school district.

The course is open to any high school student under the age of 18, regardless of whether they have a valid PA driver license or learner's permit. Once registered, students will be able to access the course 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

$32 of each $100 tuition fee is retained by the MCIU, according to Ken Voss, director of the MCIU's Nonpublic School Services Division.

The web site will launch March 1 at http://www.mciu.org/drivertraining.

The Norristown-based MCIU is funded by a combination of school district taxes, state and federal grants, and service fees. It provides special education and other services to more than 15,000 school-aged and preschool children around Montgomery County.

Those seeking more information may call Dr. Ken Voss at 610-755-9318.