“No one gets behind the wheel without proper training. That is why professional driving schools are there to equip people with the right skills and knowledge required to navigate the road safely”, Capt. Ambrish Sharma says.
However, there are plenty of driving schools out there, and choosing the best one for you can be challenging. Hence, we ask an expert, Capt. Ambrish Sharma walks us through vital factors to consider when making this important decision. Read on for some valuable tips to help you choose the best driving school that meets your needs and ensures a positive learning experience.
Carry out Research
There might be a plethora of options out there, but not all driving schools have all it takes to correctly equipped prospective drivers. That is why carrying out due diligence is very important.
Capt. Ambrish Sharma recommends going through The ministry of road transport and Highways, India for a list of approved driving schools across the regions. You can search according to your location for ease and convenience.
Reputation and Reviews
Now, narrow down your research by going through the driving school’s reputation and reading reviews from previous students. A good driving school should have a website including testimonials, reviews, and ratings. Positive reviews and recommendations indicate that the driving school has a track record of providing quality education and customer satisfaction. Additionally, consider asking for recommendations from family, friends, or colleagues who have recently learned to drive. Their personal experiences can provide valuable insights and help you make an informed decision.
Ask for Recommendations
You can never go wrong with word-of-mouth. There are family, friends, neighbors, or coworkers that have gone through driving schools that don’t hesitate to give you candid opinions and advice. Ask them why they choose the school and their experiences. Ask what the curriculum is like and if they have the required facilities. Ask about their overall experience and what they were most happy with during the training.
Accreditation and Licensing
Start your search by ensuring that the driving school you’re considering is fully accredited and licensed by the relevant authorities. This accreditation ensures that the school meets the required standards and regulations for driver training. Check if the driving school has the necessary licenses and certifications, such as a valid instructor’s license and proper insurance coverage. Choosing an accredited driving school not only ensures quality education but also enhances your chances of passing the driving test and obtaining your driver’s license.
Instructor Qualifications and Experience
The qualifications and experience of the driving instructors play a significant role in your learning process. Inquire about the instructors’ credentials, such as their certifications, training, and years of experience. Experienced instructors possess a wealth of knowledge and can effectively teach you essential driving skills. Additionally, they should be patient, friendly, and able to adapt their teaching methods to cater to individual learning styles. Requesting a trial lesson or a short conversation with an instructor can help you gauge their teaching style and personality, enabling you to make an informed decision.
Comprehensive Curriculum
A well-structured curriculum is vital for a driving school to impart essential driving knowledge and skills. Inquire about the syllabus and the topics covered during the course. A comprehensive curriculum should include both theoretical and practical lessons, covering traffic rules and regulations, defensive driving techniques, road signs, and emergency procedures. Practical training should involve sufficient behind-the-wheel practice in different road and traffic conditions. Furthermore, the school should offer classroom sessions, driving simulators, and interactive learning materials to enhance your understanding and engagement.
Training Vehicle Condition and Safety Features
The condition and safety features of the training vehicles used by the driving school are crucial considerations. The vehicles should be well-maintained, clean, and equipped with essential safety features such as airbags, anti-lock braking systems (ABS), and dual controls. Dual controls, which enable the instructor to take over in case of emergencies, are especially important for beginner drivers. Prioritise schools that maintain a fleet of modern vehicles with proper safety features, as they contribute to a safer and more effective learning experience.
One-on-one Lesson
You want a lesson that is tailored to your needs and one-on-one lessons are the best for that. It offers a personalized experience with targeted undivided attention. Hence, instructors can know your strengths and weaknesses and help you through overcoming. Moreover, you want to cover the full scope of the curriculum and fully understand difficult concepts you might come across. Therefore, while choosing a good driving school, ask if they offer one-on-one lesson
Bottomline
Choosing the right driving school is a crucial step in your journey to becoming a skilled and responsible driver. By considering the factors explained by Capt. Ambrish Sharma, you can choose the right driving schools for you. The goal is to find a driving school that prioritizes your safety, offers comprehensive education, and provides a positive learning experience. Investing time and effort in selecting the right driving school will lay a solid foundation for your driving skills and ensure your safety on the roads.
