Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a difference in driving schools?

We certainly think so!!   Advantage Driving prides itself on maintaining a professional presence at all times.  We maintain a business office/classroom and do not use temporary spaces to conduct classes.

The classroom portion of our program is lecture style and utilizes a power point presentation.  Each student receives a fill in the blank workbook, approx. 30 pages, that we insure is completed during class. The 6 hours of behind the wheel driving instructions are typically taught in 3 lessons that are 2 hours each – each driving lesson is “one on one” with a SCDMV certified driving instructor.  We perform SLED background check on all instructors each year and  offer students the first available or same gender driving instructor. After the program is completed we mail a pre-stamped survey card to each student and their parent, if applicable, to learn how we can continue to improve our services.  Insurance coverage carried by Advantage Driving far exceeds, up to 10 times, the amount required.  Our vehicles are professionally serviced and maintained by certified automobile mechanics – we do not personally make any repairs to the vehicles-including plugging tires.  A lot of our students are younger brothers and sisters of former students  that have used our services  and were satisfied with the experience.  It is not uncommon for us to teach 3,4 or more  children from the same family.    

What should I  bring to class?

Each student should bring their beginner's permit,   $5.00 if they are eating pizza lunch with us (you are welcome to bring snacks and lunch), and a sweatshirt or sweater.

How do I pay for the class?

4 Point Reduction / Driver Improvement classes are paid in full the day you attend the class.  Beginner Driver classes may be paid in full before class begins or you may take advantage of our no interest/no additional fees payment plan.  Online payment is available through PayPal also for all classes.

Do I have to sign up in advance for class?

We would like to hear from you in advance of the class in order to give you information about the class. We also like to prepare a training package for you in advance. We will welcome you at any class unannounced on a space available basis.

How long does the class last?

Beginner Driver classes are from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. – please come about 8-8:15 to sign in.  4 Point Reduction / Driver Improvement – please confirm the times posted for the day you plan to attend.

How does lunch work?

During the day we  have snacks, bottled water, coffee, hot tea and hot chocolate available at no charge.  Sodas are .50.  Students are allowed to pack a lunch, parents can drop off something, or they can bring $5.00 and we order pizza. Lunch is from 12:30-1:00 pm.

Where are you located?

We are located at 7705 St Andrews Road -  4/10 mile north of the Lake Murray Blvd.  / St. Andrews Rd. intersection.  We are between the Lizard Thicket Restaurant and the Irmo Post Office – next to Blue Flour Bakery. Please see our  Directions page - you can print out a map.

When do I sign up for the behind-the-wheel time?

You will be assigned a driving instructor when you attend the classroom portion.