Hoping to gain confidence in driving? It’s not as easy as getting behind the wheel after watching online tutorials – you need a credible driving school to help you develop the right skills.
We’ve selected the best driving schools in town based on the quality of their training, methods, instructors, and flexibility. Without further ado, let’s take a look!
Table of Contents
- Average Cost of Driving Schools in Calgary
- How We Picked the Best Driving Schools in Calgary
- 1. Champion Driving
- 2. Roadrunner Driving School
- 3. Driving 101 – Driving Schools Calgary
- 4. My Way Driving Academy
- 5. South Trail Driving School
- 6. Derek Brown’s Academy Of Driving
- 7. One 2 One Driving School LTD
- 8. Jonas Truck Driving School
- 9. Protruckers Driving Academy
- 10. A1 Advance Driving School
- 11. A Proactive Driving School
- Quick Comparison of the best Driving Schools In Calgary
- FAQs About Driving Schools in Calgary
Average Cost of Driving Schools in Calgary
The average cost of lessons at driving schools in Calgary is $600 per package (usually about 10 hours’ worth of training), with prices ranging from $575 to $800. The cost is determined by the driving school and package selected, as well as the number of practice hours.
To give you an idea, we combined the pricing structures of the first five driving schools on our list:
How We Picked the Best Driving Schools in Calgary
The following are the specifics of the criteria we mentioned:
1. Champion Driving
| Teaching methods | 5/5 |
| Quality training | 5/5 |
| Instructors | 5/5 |
| Flexible classes | 5/5 |
Champion Driving is a government-certified driving school in Calgary, offering comprehensive driving programs for teens, adults, and seniors. With a strong focus on defensive driving and accident prevention, their experienced instructors aim to build confidence and skill in every student.
Champion Driving employs well-trained and professional instructors who provide clear, patient, and structured lessons, ensuring students feel at ease behind the wheel.
Lessons emphasize road safety, collision avoidance, and defensive driving, helping students not only pass their road tests but also become responsible drivers in real-world conditions.
Whether you’re a beginner, need a refresher, or want to build a professional driving career, their tailored programs cater to various learning needs.
They offer convenient scheduling options and a free pick-up and drop-off service, making lessons more accessible for students with busy schedules.
The school ensures that students are trained in compliance with the latest driving laws, keeping them well-prepared for road tests and safe driving.
Their service charges are upfront, ensuring no hidden costs, although specific pricing details require direct contact.
Many students appreciate the approachable and supportive nature of the instructors and staff, which enhances the learning experience.
Pros
- Experienced and Certified Instructors
- Defensive Driving Techniques
- Customized Programs for All Skill Levels
- Flexible Scheduling and Free Pick-Up/Drop-Off
- Up-to-Date Traffic Rules and Regulations
- Affordable and Transparent Pricing
- Friendly Customer Service
Cons
- Advanced Scheduling is Recommended
Know how to make the driver feel grounded and confident
“I had a wonderful experience during my time with Champion Driving school, I purchase the GDL PACKAGE (INSURANCE REDUCTION) FOR $720 + GST. Getting started was just a simple phone call, and email transfer. I had to due the online portion instead of the in-class, since having two toddlers at home. The online was very simple, and straightforward, and very knowledgeable. The in-car portion was nerve-wracking in the beginning but my driving instructors were very calm and collective, and they know how to make the driver feel grounded and confident. The one I drove with the most is Abdi, and he was very knowledgeable about the safety of the road and took the time to help me understand, the things I did not know. I took the road test with a car rental from Champion Driving school, and I passed on my first attempt. I would recommend Champion Driving school, to anybody who is willing to learn to drive, the instructors were very professional and were very welcoming.”
Understood my needs perfectly
“I had a fantastic experience with this driving school. All the instructors were great, but I especially want to thank Abdi for his excellent guidance. He understood my needs perfectly and accommodated my preference for shorter, 1-hour lessons instead of the usual 2-hour ones. This approach significantly boosted my confidence and accelerated my progress in improving my driving skills. The entire team made me feel comfortable and supported throughout my learning journey. Thanks to their effective teaching methods, I passed my driving test on the first attempt. I highly recommend this school to anyone looking for professional and personalized driving lessons.”
2. Roadrunner Driving School
| Teaching methods | 5/5 |
| Quality training | 4/5 |
| Instructors | 5/5 |
| Flexible classes | 5/5 |
Roadrunner Driving School claims to have a mission of instilling freedom and independence among its students. Fortunately for them, we saw various signs that hint that they’re quite successful in this goal.
Firstly, they have certified instructors who can accommodate various types of learners regardless of age and current abilities. With this in mind, we can recommend them to both eligible teens and working adults
As for beginners, their recommended package certificate is the best place to start. This includes 15 hours of online or classroom instruction and 16 hours behind the wheel.
Experienced drivers who want a refresher can also take their two-hour brush-up lessons, which is actually their fan-favorite service. This is also perfect for future exam-takers who need to prepare for a road test.
However, their prices are not particularly low, although it’s safe to say that they’re reasonable. The rates pretty much hit the city average – so not excessively expensive – plus they’re transparent with fees and other charges.
Well, the only issue we’ve found is that Roadrunner Driving School occasionally cancels classes without notice. Nonetheless, all of the qualities we’ve mentioned still make them a solid starting point for new and experienced drivers.
Pros
- Offers one-on-one car training
- Refresher courses available
- Also offers classroom insurance reduction certificate
- Provides online classes
- Honest and transparent pricing
- Car rentals available
Cons
- Often cancels class without notice
Understanding, fun instructor
Passed my road test because of their help. Best driving school ever. William went above and beyond to teach me how to drive. He is very patient, understanding and such a fun instructor. Their prices are reasonable. Highly reccomended. – Shyrra Pinder
Useful in theory courses
Significantly improved in my driving skills thanks to their help. It’s a fantastic driving school overall. The classes were useful in familiarizing myself with theory. The Vehicle Experience was incredible as well. My instructor was patient and friendly. He was a massive help in improving my skills. The experience was enjoyable as well as useful. They taught me safety and proper etiquette. You won’t find a better driving school in all of Calgary – Melkor
3. Driving 101 – Driving Schools Calgary
| Teaching methods | 5/5 |
| Quality training | 4/5 |
| Instructors | 4/5 |
| Flexible classes | 5/5 |
Getting a driver’s license is often the major goal when enrolling in a driving school. So if you have your mind set for that, Driving 101 might be the right school for you – most of their past students will tell you that, actually.
To give you an idea why, many of their students passed their exams on their first attempt. Kudos to the learners, of course, but to us, this also means that their credible instructors have done a good job with the process.
In line with this, one thing we think benefits their students is their dual approach to teaching. This means both theoretical and practical classes to help students understand driving concepts from all angles.
The other is that Driving 101’s programs are designed for today’s drivers, teaching students the skills necessary to meet the challenges of driving on today’s roads. Of course, road laws and rules change – staying updated is always a minimum standard.
On another note, they’re available to teach daily, including evenings and weekends (the flexibility allows students to choose a convenient schedule). However, there have been complaints about how they can sometimes disrupt these schedules.
Fortunately, that’s just one hiccup in the grand scheme of everything that Driving 101 has to offer. With all that said, we’re confident that they can help beginners in all aspects of driver’s education.
Pros
- Over 25 years of teaching experience
- Quick, efficient, and fun driving lessons
- Gives both theoretical and practical classes
- Flexible schedule
- Driving education in 10 short days
- Free mock test
Cons
- Issues about messing up schedules
- Quite pricey
Comfortable, absolutely incredible
Driving 101 has been absolutely incredible. I have enjoyed every single driving class and have learned so much already. I feel so much more comfortable on the road now! Highly recommend them! – Rozina Khoja
Shared tips and tricks
My instructor was Tahsin and he was amazing! I didn’t have any driving experience going into the lessons, but he was very helpful and friendly. I was the most nervous about learning parking, but he shared tips and tricks which were extremely helpful! I passed my driving test on the first try! I would definitely recommend them – Amy Yuen
4. My Way Driving Academy
| Teaching methods | 4/5 |
| Quality training | 5/5 |
| Instructors | 4/5 |
| Flexible classes | 4/5 |
Whether you are a teen driver or a senior citizen, you may enjoy the driving programs that My Way Driving Academy offers. Beyond basic driving skills, they can also teach you extra driving techniques like evasive maneuvers.
The school is more oriented toward teaching a safe driving style, which is the standard for basic learning anyway. This is why each course includes lessons on defensive driving, highway safety, and emergency procedures.
Additionally, we appreciate that their approach to safety is also incorporated into the vehicles they lend students for driving training. Such vehicles are outfitted with various safety features including a GPS tracking system.
On a separate note, they can provide you with both classroom and online education and, of course, behind-the-wheel instruction – all of which can get you certified. But if it is just one-on-one on-road coaching you’re looking for, they also have room for that.
My Way Driving Academy is also very generous with class packages at discounted rates. For instance, they have a driver education course package that’s offered in a Winter seasonal promo (now inactive, you’d have to look out for future discounts).
As a last note, they offer free pickup and drop off to students anywhere in the city – a plus for convenience and value for money. Their scheduling and customer service though isn’t the best but they’re not so bad as to affect the overall service quality.
Pros
- Specializes in teaching safe driving methods
- Offers class packages
- Online registration available
- Free pickup and drop off anywhere in the city
- Vehicles equipped with various safety features
Cons
- Minor scheduling issues
- Can be difficult to reach at times
Very professional, knowledgeable
I would recommend My Way Driving to anyone because it is a very professional driving school. They have knowledge on driving rules,regulations and all the test routes. I will always highly recommend them. – Payal
Great instructors, amazing driving school
My Way Driving is an amazing driving school. The instructor made me feel so commutable. Would never had passed without him and honestly can’t thank him enough. – Alison
5. South Trail Driving School
| Teaching methods | 5/5 |
| Quality training | 4/5 |
| Instructors | 3/5 |
| Flexible classes | 5/5 |
Beyond the in-vehicle and classroom instruction that South Trail Driving School provides, they’ve come up with developed programs and activities for students. This, in our opinion, distinguishes them from the other driving schools on our list.
To give you an idea, students in this driving school are required to do about 2 to 3 hours of homework, take instructor quizzes, watch driving lesson videos at home, and review driving management lessons.
We understand that this can be exhausting for some, but we see it as a unique and rewarding driving education. If you ask us, this will accelerate their learning and allow them to become mature drivers as early as possible.
They provide a good selection of driving lessons too, each with its own set of objectives (provide certification, reduce insurance rates, teach vehicle instructions, etc.). To give you an idea, they generally teach their students things like traffic rules and safe driving procedures.
They’re also one of the many driving schools in Calgary that offer consultations before committing to a program. It’s a 20-minute session with their personnel to demonstrate their credentials and to explain the course you are about to enroll in.
Having said all this, South Trail Driving School truly demonstrates excellence in their driving school service, even innovating some for the benefit of their students. So it goes without saying that, despite minor flaws, they are among the best in the industry.
Pros
- Offers a great selection of driving lessons
- Unique with their homework, quizzes, and other take-home activities
- 20-minute consultation prior to enrolling
- Total of four licensed driving instructors
- Info-packed website
Cons
- Minor complaints regarding undertime classes
- Minor complaints about instructors being late
Useful tips, excellent advice
Before I took Southtrail Driving School, I was already a decent driver. But being more aware and knowledgeable on the road was something I wanted. Southtrail has taught me many useful tips and given excellent advice that has made me more comfortable behind the wheel. My instructor, Andy, has brought many situations that I could encounter when on the road. Making sure that I have no doubts or questions when anything unusual happens. I highly recommend taking at least a bronze course from Southtrail, so you have no hesitations on the road. – Camden MacDougall
Comfortable, yet challenging
Both Ian and Jerry were excellent teachers who helped me learn to drive at a pace that I was comfortable with yet challenged me nonetheless. I easily passed my road test first try after lessons with each of them. Also very thankful for Nelson’s excellent service. All in all, this driving ed program is top notch and I would recommend to anyone who wants to learn. – Sebastien Perreault
6. Derek Brown’s Academy Of Driving
| Teaching methods | 4/5 |
| Quality training | 4/5 |
| Instructors | 3/5 |
| Flexible classes | 5/5 |
Derek Brown’s Academy of Driving is one of many that will be mentioned when you ask for the best driving school in Calgary. They have been in business since 1970 and have evolved from a one-car driver training school to a true driving academy with a fleet of 15 cars and six trucks.
They can certainly be relied on for the standard driving school services – courses for new drivers and refresher courses for experienced drivers. Although they seem to also specialize in teaching winter driving courses and seniors’ driving courses.
But what most people fall in love with is their ability to customize courses specific to their student’s individual needs. Whether what they need is practical skills or confidence on the road, they’re pretty flexible in their teaching techniques.
Derek Brown’s Academy of Driving also has hundreds of students who have used their services and have received their licenses after only taking one exam. As a matter of fact, this kind of quality instruction they provide their students is what they are most praised for.
The best driving course they can offer you is a full basic driving course that is available for both online and in-classroom education, depending on what works best for their students. It is the first 15 hours of the course, followed by 10 hours of in-car training.
However, if you are only seeking to be safer on the road, it’s best to inquire on their defensive driving course. Leveling up your driving skills is also not a problem with them as they can teach you the basics of driving trucks.
Pros
- Over five decades of experience in the industry
- Offers customized lesson plans for studentsÂ
- Specializes in teaching winter driving courses and seniors’ driving courses
- Provides driver training with multimedia lessons and friendly instructors
- Charges at decent prices
- Available for online, in-class, and on-road education
Cons
- Minor language barrier issue
- Complaints about some instructors speaking too fast
Supportive, great in driving session
Derek Browns helped me so much with both my driving skills and knowledge of the road. The class part was great but I enjoyed the in driving session the most. Ahmed was my instructor and he was amazing at helping me practice my driving, and keep learning my driving skills, he is really funny and kind but also super supportive on the road. It was a great experience, I would highly suggest Ahmed as a driving instructor. – Stevvve Aril
Great instructor, explains everything
Went here for their basic driving course. I had Qusay as my instructor and he was a great instructor. Helped to explain and understand more than I had anticipated. While it can be frustrating sometimes he was a great instructor and I am very happy with with the basic driving course all in all. I would highly recommend Derek Brown’s Academy of Driving. – Sheldon Kopas
7. One 2 One Driving School LTD
| Teaching methods | 5/5 |
| Quality training | 4/5 |
| Instructors | 3/5 |
| Flexible classes | 4/5 |
One 2 One Driving School is one of Calgary’s top driving schools for a variety of reasons. One is due to their commitment to providing high-quality driving lessons, which, honestly speaking, is the first factor everyone is looking for.
Students who sign up with the school can expect to join a structured driving training program executed by their experienced instructors. Their focus is to develop students in three areas of driving: habits, skills, and confidence.
To give you a quick overview of how they teach, students we spoke with said that the school prioritizes teaching things like speed and space management, proper vehicle handling, and even hazard recognition. All these are basic elements of driving, by the way.
On a more positive note, it is in our best belief that this driving school is sought-after in town due to its high success rate for the driving road test. We see this kind of track record as a valuable asset not only for the school but especially for its students.
But if we’re being honest, One 2 One’s driving instructors aren’t the most patient. They were at the top of the game in terms of credibility, but with so many negative comments about how their instructors can be rude and impatient at times, it’s easy to see why that’s the case.
Frankly, that appears to be a red flag, but we can’t deny the quality of driving lessons they
provide to their students, as evidenced by their high success rate and numerous recognitions.
Pros
- Structured driving training program
- Taps into various driving skills, techniques, and managementÂ
- High success rate for driving road tests
- Upfront pricing
Cons
- Some instructors have a tendency to be impatient and rude
Thought everything in detail
I am an experienced driver outside of Canada but did not have much knowledge about traffic regulations and control in Canada. I had sessions with Cherry and she thought everything in details and I learnt all including proper parkings. I would highly recommend the driving school everyone who requires driving rules and practice to be an excellent driver! – Naranchimeg Bayanjargal
Provided my son the confidence and focused environment that he needed to pass the test and get his driver’s license. – Jeanetta Cirillo
8. Jonas Truck Driving School
| Teaching methods | 3/5 |
| Quality training | 3/5 |
| Instructors | 4/5 |
| Flexible classes | 5/5 |
If you are considering a career in truck driving, Jonas Truck Driving School is one of the best places to get your education. Their courses are ideal for those interested in a trucking career and who want to earn credentials fast.
This driving school can help you level up your truck driving skills as their courses are organized in stages. They have Class 1 to Class 5 courses – your choice depends on what type of vehicle you want to drive and your current license and credentials.
All of their courses include detailed knowledge of the Alberta Transportation Rules and Regulations. So, it’s reassuring that their students are getting the right driving practice that is needed to be exercised in the area.
Talking with their students, they said that Jonas Truck Driving School always makes their learning as convenient as possible. Well, it’s easy for the school to do it as their driving lessons are available daily and their scheduling system is not restrictive or tight.
More about convenience, they offer free pick-up and drop-off services whether you’re at work, school, or home. Actually, it’s more common at other driving schools, but we think it’s worth mentioning, especially since their students are very vocal about it.
Jonas Truck Driving School not only teaches truck driving lessons but also car driving lessons, though we believe they aren’t the best fit for truck driving services.
Pros
- Over 20 years experience
- Specializes truck driving lessons
- Lessons are highly focused on local rules and regulationsÂ
- Free pick-up and drop-off
- Multi-lingual instructors
Cons
- Not best fit for the basic car driving lessons
- Minor complaints regarding extra charges
Helpful, smart training
Jonas Driving school was a great experience for me there trainer’s were very helpful and smart the way they trained and treated me was great.i highly recommended Jonas Driving school to anyone who is looking to get there license top notch professionalism. – Yonas Eilas
Well-knowledge, friendly staff
Great to deal and very understanding. The instructor well knowledge. They work with you and your schedule. Friendly staff and jonas is awesome. – Jojie Tinio
9. Protruckers Driving Academy
| Teaching methods | 3/5 |
| Quality training | 4/5 |
| Instructors | 4/5 |
| Flexible classes | 4/5 |
One of the reasons we like Protruckers Driving Academy is their goal of reducing the rising number of road injuries and fatalities. Can be an ambitious goal, but they’re to accomplish this through their non-collision approach to driving lessons.
About that, such lessons are focused on providing the keys to defensive driving as well as incorporating positive safe driving points. This is important to us since this is a more truck-oriented driving school.
Speaking of these programs, their best offering is their air brake course. This program aims to reduce the risks of poor braking and troubleshoot system issues, which is one way to avoid road accidents.
It’s also worth noting that this driving academy can provide services to both future car and truck drivers. They specialize in both vehicles, so we assume they’re equally qualified to teach on both.
Moreover, Protruckers has a strong business profile and many five-star ratings on reputable online review sites. Their local reputation is further solidified by the students we spoke with who are all satisfied throughout their lessons.
It’s just that their digital presence did not completely impress us, as their website is lacking in information. In this age, most driving schools can even accept admission online – this driving school seems to lag behind.
Online, there was no information about the courses they teach, such as the hours, class options, or cost (except for their air brake lesson). This is quite a disappointment given how well they are received by their students.
Pros
- Offers truck and car driving lessons
- No-collision approach to driving lessons
- Incorporates positive safe and defensive driving
- High customer satisfaction rating
Cons
- Lack of information on the courses they teach (on website)
Individual approach, top notch school
I am very glad and happy that I came to study in this school. Incredible friendly atmosphere of learning, individual approach to each student. Adele is a top notch professional with extensive driving and teaching experience. This is exactly the place where you will come and get the necessary skills, experience and pass your Class 1. The best Truck School in Calgary! Adele and Singh you are the best and have already become like family to me thanks for your experience and patience! – Alex Corwin
Confident and good instructors
Adel is very professional and confident. He likes to go the extra mile. He doesn’t count you as a number. But as a part of his team. And he’s helper Davrir. He is also a good instructor. I definitely recommend this professional school. – julio joaquin
10. A1 Advance Driving School
| Teaching methods | 4/5 |
| Quality training | 3/5 |
| Instructors | 2/5 |
| Flexible classes | 4/5 |
For over 20 years, A1 Advance Driving School has served the greater Calgary area. We find them an ideal place to go if you want to improve your driving skills and become a more responsible driver.
They excel at developing their students’ abilities through the courses they provide, which include parking practice, class 5 training, class 7 practice, and brush-up courses. They can also help you gain confidence in driving in the snow by offering a winter driving course.
Another great thing about A1 is their instructors’ pass rate of more than 95%, which reassures us of how excellent they are at imparting knowledge to their students.
However, we’ve received some negative feedback about their instructors’ demeanor. Some students complain about them being late at times, and boringly teaching when it comes to refresher courses.
There were also issues regarding poor communication in scheduling classes.
On the plus side, the school ensures that their teachers are qualified and experienced in the courses they teach, which is an obvious plus. However, we can’t help but be disappointed by the issues we’ve raised.
Nonetheless, A1 Advance Driving School deserves a spot on our list, especially given its commendable passing rate. We also see their ongoing efforts to improve the courses they teach, although it’s clear already what they should really be working on.
Pros
- Over 20 years of industry experience
- More than 95% passing rate
- Qualified and experienced instructors
- Upfront price list
- Discounts available
Cons
- Minor complaints with their instructors’ attitude
- Issues regarding poor communications
- No mentions of online class
Detailed teaching, professional driving school
Excellent and very professional driving school. My daughter received lessons from Mr. Kamal Gill, who was very kind and helpful. He covered different kinds of scenarios that could occur while driving, and how to deal with different weather situations. By doing this he helps students feel comfortable and confident to pass the exam, as well as, when driving on their own. – Saar Raas
Best decision, 10/10
I obtained my licence just recently. I was always afraid of driving but Mr. Kamal took his time and made me feel comfortable on the road. Now I drive with confidence. I made the best decision to go and learn my driving at this school. 10/10 – Parminder Thind
11. A Proactive Driving School
| Teaching methods | 4/5 |
| Quality training | 4/5 |
| Instructors | 5/5 |
| Flexible classes | 4/5 |
A Proactive Driving School opened its doors in 2006 and is owned by a licensed driving instructor. So if we’re talking about experience and reputation, they pretty much met all our standards.
They have a team of instructors on board, all of whom are licensed and have decades of experience individually. Their calm and patient attitude toward their students was also praised by most students, earning them a plus point from us.
Now, regarding their courses, they provide the standard car driving training lessons – theirs are just primarily centered on safety and mastery of driving. They also offer other related courses like insurance reduction and refresher lessons.
And since they have very personal instructors, the driving school is able to provide personalized post-collision coaching. It’s the type of lesson that is carefully planned to help students develop safer driving skills and gain confidence in driving.
Overall, A Proactive Driving School is easily the ideal driving school for anyone in Calgary looking for one. Even their website looks promising, as it is jam-packed with useful information – it’s just that it’s sometimes inaccessible due to technical issues.
Pros
- Over 23 years of driver education experience
- 3 driving school locations in Calgary
- Offers both online & classroom learning
- Provides driving instruction in 12 languages
- AMA-trained (male & female) driving instructors
Cons
- Website experiences technical issues sometimes
Boosts my confidence, worth the money
Great experience with Proactive Driving School. Was very easy to book driving lessons and are worth the money. I took three brush up lessons with George Lagaris and was very satisfied. He is a kind and patient instructor that will help you in every way possible for you to succeed at driving. Always had helpful tips and techniques which helped me boost my confidence for my road test coming up (I passed and did great on it). I highly recommend this driving school and instructor! – Manon Kugler
Excellent driving instructor
My experience with A Proactive Driving school was spectacular. John was my driving instructor, I couldn’t wish for a better teacher. Component, patient, and highly experienced. I had very little driving experience, previous to enrolling to the novice driving program. John made my driving experience pleasant, safe and effective. I highly recommend A Proactive driving school for your driving education, and John as an excellent driving instructor! 10/10! – Jaden Skiba
