AAMVA's John Newland, Program Manager of Driver Testing and Examiner Training, participated in the 2026 American Driver and Traffic Safety Education Association (ADTSEA) Conference, held July 12–15 in Raleigh, North Carolina. The conference brought together state officials, driver education leaders, and program administrators to discuss current challenges and emerging trends in driver education and licensing. Key topics included improving driver skills testing, conducting program audits, enhancing hazard perception training, strengthening compliance strategies, and advancing overall driver safety initiatives. Participants also explored the development of competency-based driver education programs and discussed effective approaches for teaching Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in both classroom and behind-the-wheel settings, ensuring new drivers gain the knowledge and practical experience needed to safely operate increasingly technology-equipped vehicles. The conference provided valuable opportunities for collaboration and information sharing among driver education and licensing professionals committed to improving roadway safety and driver preparedness.