Looking for a driving school near Metro East in Scarborough can feel overwhelming. There are so many options, and picking the right one is a big decision. After all, learning to drive is a significant milestone that requires the right kind of guidance.
If you’re ready to start your driving journey, or even if you just want to sharpen your skills, asking the right questions before enrolling can make all the difference. This blog will cover the top questions you should ask before signing up for any driving school—especially if you’re considering a trusted school like Gray Jays Driving School.
Is the Driving School MTO Approved?
This is the first question you should always ask. When you choose a Ministry of Transportation Ontario (MTO) approved driving school , you know you’re getting high-quality training from professionals who meet strict standards.
Why is this important? MTO-approved schools are certified to teach both in-class (or online) theory and practical in-car lessons, and they follow a curriculum designed by experts. This ensures you’re not only learning how to drive but also how to drive safely and confidently. Plus, graduates from MTO-approved schools often qualify for insurance discounts and get the benefit of booking their road tests earlier than non-graduates.
So, if you’re considering enrolling in a driving school near Metro East, make sure it’s approved by the MTO—like Gray Jays Driving School.
Who Are the Instructors, and What Are Their Qualifications?
It’s important to know who will be sitting next to you during those first, often nerve-wracking moments behind the wheel. Ask about the instructors’ qualifications, their experience, and their teaching style.
At Gray Jays, for example, all instructors are ministry-certified and have years of experience helping new drivers feel comfortable and prepared. An experienced instructor knows how to adjust the lessons based on your learning speed and can spot potential driving issues before they become habits.
You should also check if the school provides background-checked instructors. Trust is key when you’re spending hours in a car with someone!
What Kind of Vehicles Will I Be Driving?
The type of car you’ll be driving during your lessons can impact your learning experience. You’ll want to make sure the vehicles are modern, safe, and well-maintained. Are they equipped with dual controls, like extra brakes for the instructor? Do they have safety features like backup cameras or dashcams?
At Gray Jays Driving School, every vehicle is equipped with dual-brake systems. This means the instructor can take control if needed, ensuring a safe learning environment. Plus, with dashcams in every car, you can feel confident knowing there’s an extra layer of security during each lesson.
Learning in a safe, reliable car helps build your confidence and makes the whole experience smoother.
What Is the School’s Success Rate for Road Test Passes?
Passing the road test is a big goal for anyone taking driving lessons. While the goal is to become a safe and confident driver, knowing the school’s pass rate can give you a sense of how well they prepare their students for the big day.
Ask the driving school about their pass rate, especially for first-time test-takers. Schools like Gray Jays take pride in their students’ success. In fact, MTO-approved driving schools have 25% higher pass rates for the G2 and G road tests compared to those who don’t receive professional training. Source.
A higher pass rate means students are well-prepared and confident going into their tests, so make sure to ask about the driving school’s track record.
Does the School Offer Flexible Scheduling?
Life can get busy, so finding a driving school that offers flexible scheduling is a must. Do they have evening and weekend classes? Can you book lessons around your work, school, or personal schedule?
Gray Jays Driving School offers flexible lesson times to fit even the busiest schedules. Whether you need early morning lessons, evening classes, or weekend sessions, Gray Jays ensures that learning to drive can fit into your life. It’s also helpful to ask if the school offers online theory classes, which allow you to study the rules of the road at your own pace.
Flexibility makes it easier to complete your course without stressing over time management.
What Are the Costs, and Are There Payment Plans?
Driving lessons can be an investment, but that doesn’t mean they have to be unaffordable. Be upfront about your budget and ask the school if they offer any payment plans or discounts. Some schools even have special offers for students or referrals.
Gray Jays Driving School provides flexible payment options to make sure everyone can access high-quality driver education . You can even choose a package that best fits your needs, whether it’s a full beginner’s course or individual refresher lessons. It’s always good to understand what’s included in the cost—does the price cover the final road test? How many lessons are included?
A transparent fee structure and flexible payment options can help you stay within budget while still getting the training you need.
How Many Lessons Will I Need?
Every learner is different, so it’s essential to ask the driving school how they determine how many lessons you’ll need before you’re ready for the road test. Some students might need only a few lessons, while others may benefit from more practice.
A good school will offer a customized plan based on your learning speed and comfort level behind the wheel. At Gray Jays, instructors assess your skills during your first lesson and work with you to create a lesson plan that fits your needs. There’s no pressure to rush through the process—Gray Jays ensures you’ll be fully prepared before taking your test.
What Safety Measures Are in Place?
Safety should always be a priority when learning to drive. Besides having dual-brake systems and dashcams, it’s essential to know what other measures the school takes to ensure your safety during lessons.
At Gray Jays Driving School, instructors follow strict safety protocols to ensure every lesson is a positive and safe experience. This includes sanitizing vehicles between lessons, ensuring seat belts are always worn, and clearly guiding students on how to handle tricky driving situations like bad weather or heavy traffic.
Knowing the school takes your safety seriously can help put your mind at ease.
What Happens If I Don’t Pass My Road Test the First Time?
No one wants to think about failing their road test, but it’s good to know what support you’ll receive if it happens. Will the school offer additional lessons? Do they provide a refresher course at a discounted rate?
Gray Jays Driving School has a strong track record of preparing students to pass on their first attempt. However, if you don’t pass, they offer extra practice lessons and will work with you on the areas that need improvement. This way, you’ll be ready to ace the test on your next try.
Are There Any Special Programs or Referral Benefits?
Some driving schools offer referral programs where you can earn rewards for recommending friends or family to the school. It’s always worth asking about these bonuses, as they can help reduce the cost of your lessons.
Gray Jays has a great referral program—when you refer a friend or family member, you can earn rewards that make it even more affordable to continue your lessons. This is just another way they show appreciation to their students.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right driving school near Metro East is an important decision, and asking the right questions can help you make the best choice. Whether it’s checking for MTO approval, understanding the instructor’s qualifications, or ensuring flexible scheduling, knowing what to ask upfront can save you time and money in the long run.
If you’re looking for a trusted, reliable, and student-focused school in the Scarborough area, Gray Jays Driving School ticks all the boxes. From modern, safe cars to flexible payment options and a strong success rate, Gray Jays is committed to helping you become a confident and capable driver.
Take the first step toward getting your driver’s license and reach out to Gray Jays Driving School today. With their experienced instructors and proven track record, you’ll be in good hands!