Most recommended driving schools in Oakland

Here's the list of the top driving schools in Oakland based on our criteria. We tell you why we think they're the best and why they're a good choice for anyone looking to get their driver's license. To do this, we've taken into account things like people's feedback, customer service, programs, trainings, courses and pricing among others. We hope it helps you to choose the driving school that best suits your needs.

1. Swift Driving School

411 E 18th St suite D, 94606 Oakland
4.88/5 Verified 

For over 30 years, Swift Driving School has been a trusted name in the Bay Area, helping countless individuals navigate the roads with confidence. Their commitment to providing comprehensive and personalized driving education is evident in their diverse range of programs. Whether you're a teenager eager to get behind the wheel or an adult seeking to brush up on your skills, this school has a program tailored to your needs.

Their online driver's education program is a convenient and engaging way for students aged 15-18 to learn the fundamentals of safe driving. For those ready to hit the road, their behind-the-wheel training is conducted by experienced and patient instructors who are dedicated to helping you develop the skills and confidence you need to become a safe and responsible driver. The school also offers specialized programs to help students pass their DMV driving test and even provides support for those seeking to reinstate their driver's license.

The dedication to personalized instruction shines through in the glowing reviews from satisfied students. Many praise the instructors' patience, encouragement, and ability to tailor lessons to individual needs. Whether you're a nervous beginner or a seasoned driver looking to improve your skills, this driving school provides a supportive and encouraging environment where you can learn, grow, and become a confident driver.

2. Bay Area Driving School

1070 A St, 94541 Hayward
4.9/5 Verified 

Driving is a fundamental skill, a rite of passage, and a necessity for navigating the world. The school understands this, and they've been helping people master the road since 1949. They offer driver's education and training that goes beyond the basics, aiming to instill safe driving habits and minimize accidents. Their team of professional instructors are licensed by the state of California and have undergone thorough background checks, ensuring both expertise and trustworthiness.

The driving school offers lessons in English, Spanish, and French, catering to a diverse community. They've earned praise for their customer service, with many reviewers highlighting the friendly and helpful staff who go the extra mile to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. Parents, in particular, appreciate the positive and fun learning environment that helps teens feel comfortable and confident behind the wheel.

This place is more than just a way to get your license; it's a place to learn the skills and develop the mindset of a responsible driver.

3. East Bay Driving School

2603 Camino Ramon Suite 200, 94583 San Ramon
5/5 Verified 

East Bay Driving School is the easy button for getting properly trained and licensed with the CA DMV. Their coaches are dedicated to your success and teach with new vehicles and modern-day driving techniques. They specialize in behind-the-wheel driving instruction for teen, adult, and expat drivers.

The school provides outstanding customer service and the best coaching for students of all skill levels. Their scheduling system is easy to use and allows you to check availability of instructors in real time. The owner, Sheri, is incredibly helpful and will even assist you with scheduling your driving test at the DMV.

Whether you are a first-time driver or need to brush up on your skills, the driving school has the program for you. Their instructors are patient, professional, and committed to helping you become a safe and confident driver. They will teach you everything you need to know to pass your driving test and become a responsible driver.

4. SCHOOL OF TRUCKING

8255 San Leandro St, 94621 Oakland
4.9/5 Verified 

The aroma of carne asada fills the air on weekends at the driving school, a testament to the welcoming atmosphere that permeates this place. More than just a place to learn, it's a community where students feel like family.

The training is comprehensive, covering both manual and automatic transmissions, ensuring that every student is equipped with the skills needed to succeed. The instructors are patient and dedicated, taking the time to guide each student through the intricacies of driving a commercial vehicle.

Whether you're a seasoned driver looking to upgrade your license or a complete novice, this school provides the support and guidance you need to achieve your goals. The school boasts a high success rate, with many students passing their CDL exams on the first try.

The dedication of the instructors and the supportive environment create a powerful combination that empowers students to reach their full potential. If you're looking for a driving school that goes above and beyond, this is the place for you.

5. Academic Driving School

1151 Harbor Bay Pkwy #131b, 94502 Alameda
4.6/5 Verified 

Academic Driving School is a driving education center licensed by the California Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) with a long history of providing quality driving instruction. The school boasts a team of experienced and licensed instructors, all of whom have undergone rigorous background checks. It offers both behind-the-wheel (in-car) and online driving training, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience.

The school's commitment to safety and excellence is evident in the positive feedback from students. Many students, particularly those new to the area or with prior driving experience, have praised the driving lessons for their effectiveness and the instructors' ability to impart valuable driving tips. The dedication to providing personalized instruction is evident in the instructors' willingness to cater to individual needs and anxieties. Students have consistently expressed their confidence in their abilities after completing the driving courses, and many have successfully passed their driving tests on the first attempt.

This place goes the extra mile by offering convenient pick-up and drop-off services, making the learning process even more accessible. While the website may need a refresh, the dedication to providing quality driving education shines through in the positive experiences of its students. If you're looking for a driving school that prioritizes safety, personalized instruction, and student success, this school is a fantastic choice.

6. Driving School Express.

283 4th St, 94607 Oakland
4.6/5 Verified 

The sun shines brightly on the streets of Oakland, and Driving School Express is ready to help you conquer the roads. This driving school is more than just a place to learn the rules of the road; it's a place where you can build confidence and become a safe, skilled driver.

The instructors at Driving School Express are passionate about teaching and dedicated to helping you succeed. They understand that learning to drive can be nerve-wracking, and they create a supportive and encouraging environment where you can learn at your own pace.

Whether you're a nervous beginner or just need to brush up on your skills, Driving School Express has a program for you. Their training is tailored to your individual needs, and they offer a variety of courses to help you prepare for your driving test.

With Driving School Express, you'll learn from experienced instructors who are committed to your success. They'll guide you through the process, provide you with the knowledge and skills you need, and help you become a confident and safe driver.

7. Bill's Defensive Driving School

2644 Appian Way Suite 103, 94564 Pinole
4.8/5 Verified 

Learning to drive can be a daunting experience, but this driving school makes it a breeze. Whether you're a nervous teenager or an adult seeking to refresh your skills, their online driver's education course provides a flexible and convenient way to master the fundamentals.

The online course allows you to learn at your own pace, in the comfort of your own home, ensuring a stress-free learning environment. Once you've grasped the basics, their certified driving instructors will guide you through practical lessons, building confidence behind the wheel.

From navigating city streets to mastering freeway driving, customized behind-the-wheel lessons cater to individual needs. They even offer a Nervous Driver Program for those who need extra support and an Adult Driving Program for those seeking to enhance their skills.

This place is committed to creating safe and confident drivers, and their dedicated instructors, like Steve and Shelley, are known for their patience, kindness, and expertise. They go above and beyond to ensure their students are well-prepared for the road ahead.

Driving schools in Oakland (the complete list)

We analyzed the driving schools with the best reputation in Oakland, of which 13 candidates passed our test and the 7 with the best rating are the ones that occupy our ranking. Below you can find the complete list. See the location on the map of the ones we've rated and click on any marker to access information, including contact phone number, reviews and answers to frequently asked questions.

Your driving school is not in this list?

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