Frequently Asked Questions?
​What type of establishment is Confident Driving School LLC?
CDS provides behind-the-wheel driving lessons for California DMV permitted student drivers and licensed drivers who need refresher lessons. WE ARE NOT A TRAFFIC SCHOOL.
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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!
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What languages do the instructors speak?
We offer driving lessons in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin.
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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.
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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. Different address drop off (within San Francisco) is available upon request.
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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.
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I don't have a permit, can I schedule a lesson?
Unfortunately not - EVERYONE, regardless of age, 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.
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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 this time.
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Why does CDS need your contact and address information?
You may choose to provide an intersection or public address if you don't feel comfortable sharing your private residence. However, it's mandatory that we have a valid contact number to reach you. It doesn't make sense to email you when our instructor arrives.
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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.
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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 experiences while operating a vehicle? The average amount of lessons are around THREE to FIVE 2-hour lessons, some students may require more practice. Please understand that we value your time - and will never recommend more lessons than what you really need.
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How should a teen (age 15.5 to under 18) structure their 6-hours 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, roundabouts, traffic signals, 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 drive test appointment.
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What is the length of each lesson?
We offer both 2-hours and 1.5-hour sessions. We do not offer single hour lessons.
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Are these private driving lessons?
Each lesson will always be one-on-one, unlike many other driving schools and instructors - we will never ask you to run errands with us or pick up / drop off other students.
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​Is our driving school licensed and certified by the California DMV?
Confident Driving School LLC is privately owned and fully licensed by the DMV, we are commercially insured, and bonded to operate in the state of California.
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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/
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You will be able to search for official driving schools that have an active license with the California DMV.
