Questions Asked Regularly
When will my child get his or her driving session schedule?
Scheduling for driving sessions (depending on instructor/student schedules and eligibility) will be made the following 3-6 weeks after your student has completed the 8 hour class.
Who do I contact for scheduling or cancellations?
All scheduling questions need to be handled through our office. Cancellations should be made 24 hours in advance during our office hours of Monday–Friday, 9 AM–5 PM to avoid additional fees. All weekend cancellations should be deemed emergencies only and sent to April Spear via text message at 803-669-4578. There is a $50 fee if the instructor arrives to the designated pick up and the student does not drive. The fee must be paid before any further driving sessions will be conducted. Please see Rules and Regulations for additional information.
How are payments handled?
Students can give payments to their driving instructor at each session, or you may come by the office anytime to make a payment. You will be given a receipt at the time payment is made. All outstanding balances are due before completion certificates are issued. Payments can be made via check or cash. Online payments are accepted as well you, must contact the office to do so.
Where will my student be drooped off?
Instructors will only drop students off at the address on the contract unless the parent gives permission to the instructor otherwise.
What is a PDLA form?
The PDLA form is a SCDMV required form for students 16 and younger. It will be given out to your child on the date of the class. It is the responsibility of the student to have the school attendance clerk completed Part 2 of the form. Parents must complete Part 3 of the form. This form needs to be completed and returned to the instructor no later than the 2nd scheduled driving session. It is required to be completed before license test can be performed.
Does the permit cost come out of the total course cost?
Yes, if our school gives your child the permit test, it will come out of your total balance for the course.
My child lost or had his/her permit expire. What do they need to do?
They can go to the SCDMV for a new permit to be issued or they can renew on the SCDMV website. Your child's eligibility for the licnse test will not change. We must have the original permit issuance date to calculate his/her 180 days for eligibility
How often should I drive with my child?
Parents are encouraged to get in drive time as much as possible so that your child is comfortable behind the wheel. When you sign the PDLA form, you are certifying that your child has driven 40 hours (including 10 hours in darkness) with a sober, licensed driver, 21 years or older-other than our instructors. If your child has minimal driving experience, see office staff for additional services offered before the 14-hour course begins.
Is the South Carolina License Exam included in your course?
The license exam is included with our course. However, if the student does not demonstrate the proper level of skills needed to pass the exam per our academy standards, the test will not be offered. It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to fulfill these obligations set for new drivers.
