5 questions every Montreal parent should ask before choosing a driving school

Choosing a driving school for your teenager is a major milestone. In Montreal, every neighborhood comes with its own set of challenges. Whether it’s navigating the constant stop signs in the Town of Mount Royal, the narrow, one-way streets of Outremont, the heavy traffic flow in Côte-des-Neiges, or the non-stop hustle and bustle of Downtown, your child needs to be prepared.

To help you make the most informed decision for your family, here are five essential questions to ask.

1. Is the program SAAQ compliant?

In Quebec, the Road Safety Education Program is mandatory. Your first step is ensuring the school is officially recognized by the SAAQ. A reputable school follows the province's four-phase program to the letter, covering all 12 theory modules and 15 on-road sessions. This structured approach is the foundation for turning a teenager into a responsible driver, capable of handling busy streets like ch. de la Côte-des-Neiges with confidence.

2. How often are the driving school's vehicles inspected?

Safety is our top priority. In Quebec, all driving school vehicles are legally required to undergo a rigorous SAAQ mechanical inspection every six months. A trustworthy school will always be transparent about this, ensuring their fleet is certified and up to standard for every student's safety.

However, an exceptional school goes the extra mile. Beyond the legal requirements, we perform regular preventive maintenance on every car in our fleet. This two-step process of combining the required semi-annual maintenance with our own frequent safety checks ensures our vehicles operate at peak performance, far exceeding the minimum legal requirements.

3. How do instructors handle the stress of city driving?

Navigating steep hills or the busy stretches of Sainte-Catherine street can be intimidating for any beginner. Understanding an instructor's approach to these high-pressure environments is crucial. Do they demonstrate patience and empathy toward cyclists and bus drivers? An experienced instructor knows how to maintain a calm, supportive atmosphere, helping students build their confidence even in the thick of downtown traffic.

4. Does the course schedule fit a busy Montreal student's life?

Between classes, sports, and homework, a teenager’s schedule is often packed. It is essential to ensure the driving school offers theory and practical sessions during evenings and weekends. Don't hesitate to ask about their typical availability for on-road lessons; consistent practice is the key to steady progress and long-term success behind the wheel.

5. Does the driving school offer extra practice lessons?

While the mandatory course provides the foundation for becoming a safe driver, the SAAQ road test can still be a major source of anxiety. Ask if the driving school offers optional practice sessions. These extra lessons allow students to master more difficult maneuvers like parallel parking or lane changes ensuring they feel confident and calm on the day of their evaluation.

Why should you choose our Montreal driving school for your teenager ?

We are deeply rooted in the Montreal community, from the quiet residential streets of Outremont and Mont-Royal to the bustling energy of Côte-des-Neiges. Our experienced instructors are dedicated to guiding your teen with patience and care. Most importantly, we go above and beyond for your peace of mind: our vehicles undergo rigorous SAAQ inspections every six months, plus our own preventive maintenance, to ensure the highest safety standards on the road.

Come meet us or get in touch today!

• Register online in just a few minutes

• Give us a call at (514) 803-7464 to discuss our lesson packages and flexible scheduling.

• Drop by and see us at our office: 2884 rue Goyer, Montreal, QC H3S 1H3.