- Key Takeaways
- A driving school must have the appropriate ICBC-approved driving course to help you achieve your goals.
- It’s important to look into the level of experience and teaching methods of the instructors.
- Student drivers need options for easy application and cancellation for convenience.
With a slew of driving schools to choose from, how do you make the best choice?
Narrow down your options with these seven factors to find the right driving school for you.
Driving Program Selections
Depending on your goals, there are specific driving courses for you. For instance, if you want to become a commercial driver, then you have to complete the Mandatory Entry-Level Training (MELT) Program.
There are also programs available for new drivers who plan to bring their private vehicles onto the road. Simply put, there are loads of offerings out there to comb through.
It is essential that you pick a driving school that will lead you to your goals. As a piece of advice, you can simply search driving school’s websites to see what programs they offer.
Instructor Experience and Credentials
Your driver training program must be administered by ICBC-certified instructors. A professionally qualified instructor knows all the twists and turns of effective driving.
When evaluating instructors, it’s also important to look into their level of experience. Ask about their methods of teaching and their corrective techniques when on the road.
Course Structure and Progress Tracking
ICBC-approved courses typically include in-class instructions and lessons on the road. So that’s what you can usually expect when enrolling in a new driving training course.
Don’t forget to read carefully through the course outline provided by the school. This document details all the basics you need to know about the course and how to complete it.
Enrollment and Booking Process
The enrollment and booking process must be relatively easy. More importantly, it helps if these can be done online on any type of device.
An online application makes payments transparent. Plus, sending payments is far more convenient with electronic channels in place.
Vehicles and Transmission Options
As a pro tip, ask if the driving school has dual-control vehicles. These types of vehicles give control to the instructor, acting as a safety mode in case something goes wrong.
Transmission options must include both manual and automatic vehicles. These transmissions require different handling so it’s best to have these options ready before signing up.
Value for Money and Other Fees
Driving schools aren’t too expensive but they can be in certain instances. For example, other schools may charge additional fees for extra lessons on the road.
It is important for you to determine if the program you choose is worth every penny. You’re getting your money’s worth if no hour is wasted and every lesson is worthwhile.
Refunds and Cancellation Policies
If it’s easy to get in, it should be easy to get out as well. Driving schools should provide you with the option to back out if things don’t turn out well for you.
This isn’t something that will affect the quality of your driving education. But, it’s always a handy option that should be available to every student.
Want to get started? Apply to our New Driver Training Program here at Taylor Pro College for an introductory assessment.
Sources:
Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC). (n.d.). New drivers or riders. ICBC Home. https://www.icbc.com/driver-licensing/driver-training/Pages/New-drivers-or-riders.aspx
Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC). (n.d.). Choose a driving school. ICBC Home. https://www.icbc.com/driver-licensing/driver-training/Pages/Choosing-your-driving-school.aspx
