Things to consider when choosing a driving school

October 2025

Well done on acing your driver theory test and getting a learner permit under your belt.  

With that milestone behind you, the next essential step is finding a driving school that will lay the foundation for safe and confident driving. From mastering clutch and steering control to road positioning and parking, the right school will provide hands-on training in all the essentials needed for a lifetime behind the wheel. 

With plenty of driving school options available across Ireland, it’s vital to choose one that truly sets you up for success. Here’s what you should keep an eye out for.

First and foremost, make sure your driving school employs Approved Driving Instructors (ADIs) registered with the Road Safety Authority. By law, only ADIs can deliver Essential Driver Training (EDT) consisting of 12 driving sessions or 6 sessions if you’re eligible for reduced EDT. They must display a valid ADI permit, giving you assurance that they have the right credentials and are legally allowed to instruct.  

The 12-session EDT covers a wide range of topics, including car controls, driving through traffic, speed management, night driving and correct positioning. You’ll also receive a logbook in which your sessions and progress will be recorded, as well as online in your EDT portal account.  

To find an ADI in your area, visit rsa.ie. There is also a list of ADIs that provide tuition for learner drivers requiring special accommodation, such as restricted mobility or hearing support.

Always check online reviews and ask for recommendations from friends and family before you book your first driving lesson. A reputable driving school will usually share its success stories, so look for consistent praise from former learners especially around patience and pass rates. Conversely, if there are many complaints about rudeness, cancellations, or lack of progress, take that as a red flag.

Before signing up, look at the type of car your driving school uses for driving lessons. Ask whether the school provides training in a manual or automatic car, depending on what licence you plan to get. Driving a manual car can take more practice as opposed to automatic. 

Also, don’t forget to confirm whether you can use your instructor’s car for your driving test. This can considerably help as you’ll already be comfortable driving the same care you trained in.

This is a crucial aspect you should pay attention to. Don’t be tempted to go with the cheapest option without checking what’s included. Paying a slightly higher rate for a calm, skilled driving instructor with a strong success rate can save you money in the long run by helping you pass sooner and drive more confidently.

Make sure you feel comfortable with your instructor’s teaching style and personality. Consider whether they explain things clearly without jargon and whether you feel comfortable asking questions. If it’s not working for you, you can always switch from one ADI to another during your EDT. 

If you experience driving anxiety, look for an instructor known for prioritising a stress-free learning environment.

You don’t need to buy a  car insurance policy if you are learning to drive in your instructor’s vehicle as you’ll be covered by their policy.  

But if you’re practicing in someone else’s car, like your parents’, you must ensure you’re insured. You can either take out your own policy or get added as a learner driver on your parent’s car. 

At Allianz, we offer  car insurance for young drivers  aged 17 to 30. Getting insurance in your own name will hold you in good stead in the long run because you will earn your own no claim bonus , (for each claim free year), but you must be the registered owner of the car you are insuring. 

It’s worth noting that learner permit holders must always drive with an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) or someone who holds a valid driving licence in the same category (like B licence for cars) as you for at least two years. If found in violation of this rule, you could be penalised with a €160 fine in addition to two penalty points, which can increase to four if convicted in court. 

Check out Allianz Ireland Car Insurance Help and Support Hub for FAQs around adding additional drivers. 

Allianz p.l.c. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Standard acceptance criteria, terms & conditions apply 

In Ireland, you must complete 12 Essential Driver Training (EDT) lessons with an approved instructor before sitting your test.

In many cases, yes. Most driving schools allow you to book your instructor’s car for the driving test for an additional fee.

Follow our six tips above and choose an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) who’s patient, communicative, who comes with great learner reviews.

No, but staying with the same instructor helps keep your learning consistent and builds your confidence.

Information correct as at 23/10/2025.