When we turn 18, the first thing many of us strive for – apart from legally purchasing alcohol – is to get our driving licence, but finding a private driving instructor can be a daunting task when you’re not sure where to look.
To help in your search, we’ve narrowed down a list of top private driving instructors with some of the highest passing rates* for each driving centre – complete with their contact numbers, as well as reviews** by past clients. Regardless of whether you’re seeking to pass in a manual or automatic car, we’ve got you covered:
*Statistics are taken from June 2023 to May 2024.
**Some reviews have been edited for length and clarity.
Private instructors do offer a bit more flexibility than driving schools, since you’ll be able to book lessons as and when you need them. Many also prefer booking with a private instructor, as they can offer to drive to a location that’s more convenient.
You’re also able to tailor practical lessons more towards your speed. That means getting to move on to the next module whenever you feel ready, or taking more time to work on areas that you’re not as confident in. Since you’re learning from one instructor only, they’re also able to keep track of your progress for you, and tell you where your weak spots are and how to best improve.
Overall, lessons are also much cheaper than going with a driving school.
Driving schools, on the other hand, are much more expensive. But, they offer structured lessons where you have to pass certain maneuvers before moving on to the next practical module. This way, you can ensure that you’re confident in each course that you’ve taken.
You’re also privy to driving circuits and booking of test dates over private students. The circuit is part of the practical theory test, so getting enough time at the circuit to familiarise yourself with the course is beneficial. Getting to book your test dates first also means you can pick a time that you’re more comfortable with.
Image credit: @nickmarsha1l via Instagram
Bukit Batok Driving Centre (BBDC) is the go-to driving centre for West- and South-siders, conveniently located just a 10-minute walk away from Bukit Gombak MRT station. But if you’d rather skip the walking, the centre provides free shuttle buses to and from the MRT station every 30 minutes.
Image credit: Toyota
ComfortDelGro Driving Centre (CDC) is operated by the ComfortDelGro group, so you might just get to know some potential colleagues if you’re looking to moonlight as a taxi driver after obtaining your licence! It’s also where bus and taxi vocational licences are handed out, making it super convenient if you’re considering a career choice as a driver.
Class 3 (manual transmission)
Image credit: SSDC
Of the three driving centres, Singapore Safety Driving Centre (SSDC) is the oldest yet most impressive, with a 3-storey driving circuit not unlike the old Escape Theme Park’s go-kart track. Of course, instead of unleashing your inner speed demon, you’ll need to be cautious and observe traffic rules here!
Now that you’re ready to take up your driving lessons with any of the above instructors, it won’t be long before you’re zooming around with friends along the streets of Singapore with your newly acquired skill.
More resources for drivers here:
Last updated by Raewyn Koh on 13th August 2024.
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