Frequently Asked Questions?
What type of school is Confident Driving School?
CDS provide behind-the-wheel driving lessons for permitted student drivers and licensed drivers who need refresher lessons. WE ARE NOT A TRAFFIC SCHOOL.
What can I expect during our initial driving lesson?
We will see if you are comfortable starting at the location of pick up. If not, we will drive you to a neighborhood with less traffic. Assist in driver seat, mirrors, and vehicle temperature adjustments. We will then go over basic vehicle controls and functions. We will discuss previous driving experience, goals and expectations. Then we will hit the road!
What languages do the instructors speak?
Both instructors speak fluent English and Cantonese. No other languages are available at the moment.
Does the student drive their own family vehicles for the lessons?
No, our instructors operate our vehicles which are commercially insured with dual controls, brake/accelerator pedals on each side to keep everyone safe.
Do we meet at the driving school's address for each lesson?
No, the instructor will arrange to pick-up and drop-off from the convenience of your home, work, or school.
Can a parent or spouse ride along during the driving lesson?
We have allowed this in the past, but we have found that it is often more distracting when a family member rides along. CDS instructors will consider on a case-by-case basis.
I don't have a permit, can I schedule a lesson?
Unfortunately not, EVERYONE must have either a valid California DMV issued Provisional Instruction Permit or a valid driver's license issued within the United States. Please visit our "Permit Info" page for additional details.
When and how do we pay for the lesson?
Payment is due at the completion of each lesson. We accept Cash, Check, Apple Cash, PayPal, Venmo and Zelle. NO CREDIT CARDS are accepted at the moment.
Do you work with students that have anxiety from driving?
We provide high-quality driving lessons with a friendly and low-stress approach. CDS instructors will ensure that you are comfortable and feel safe while learning how to drive.
How many lessons will I need to take?
Every student is different, there are many factors to this question. How many hours of previous experience do you have, if any at all? Will you have access to additional practice outside of professional lessons? Any past trauma or negative experience while operating a vehicle? The average amount of lessons is around THREE to FIVE 2-hour lessons, some students may need more practice. Please understand that we value your time - and will never recommend more lessons than what you really need.
How should a teen (age 15.5 to under 18) structure their 6-hour requirement?
Teens will earn a Certificate of Completion of Behind-The-Wheel Training, after 6-hours with an instructor. (1) We will cover basic maneuvers, practice turns, lane changes, 2-way vs. all-way stop signs, U-turns, 3-point turns, pulling over and reversing etc. (2) Freeway, parallel parking, hill parking, parking lots, and other advanced skills are generally covered. (3) Final lesson, we recommend for drive test preparation taken several days prior to their scheduled behind-the-wheel test appointment with the DMV.
What is the length of each lesson?
We offer both 2-hours and 1.5-hour sessions. We do not offer single hour lessons.
Are these private driving lessons?
Each lesson will always be one-on-one, unlike many other driving schools - we will never ask you to pick up our next student, to only then have that student drive you home.
Is our driving school licensed by the DMV?
Confident Driving School LLC is privately owned and fully licensed by the DMV, commercially insured, and bonded to operate in the state of California.
How do you know if a driving school is legitimate and officially licensed by the California DMV?
Please use the website provided here: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/vehicle-industry-services/occupational-licensing/occupational-license-lookup/
You will be able to search for official driving schools that have an active license with the California DMV.
