Driving Schools: An Overview
Driving schools provide professional instruction for individuals learning to operate motor vehicles safely. In Tennessee, teen drivers must complete state-mandated driver education requirements including classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training. Driving schools also serve adults seeking to obtain their first license, improve their skills, or reduce insurance premiums.
Core Concepts of Driver Education
There are several types of driver education programs available:
Teen Driver Education: State-required programs including 30 hours of classroom instruction and 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training for students under 18.
Best for: First-time teen drivers meeting Tennessee licensing requirements.
Adult Driver Education: Flexible programs for adults learning to drive, refreshing skills, or preparing for the road test.
Best for: Adults obtaining their first license or international drivers adapting to U.S. roads.
Defensive Driving/Traffic School: Courses for reducing insurance premiums or addressing traffic violations.
Best for: Licensed drivers seeking discounts or point reduction.
Top 3 Driving Schools in Nashville, TN
1. Brentwood Driver Training
Best For: Families seeking the most established driver education program in Middle Tennessee with multiple convenient locations and comprehensive teen programs.
Philosophy: Brentwood Driver Training provides the highest level of safety while equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become safe and competent drivers. The school emphasizes a stress-free environment so students can concentrate on learning.
Services:
Teen Classroom Course: 30 hours of professional classroom instruction.
Behind-the-Wheel Training: 6 hours of in-car instruction with dual-controlled vehicles.
Home Video Course: Self-paced option for busy teenagers.
Driver’s License Testing: On-site testing available (fee: $55).
Locations:
Nashville: 3415 West End Avenue (Continental Building)
Brentwood: 233 Wilson Pike Circle
Franklin: 4149 Mallory Lane
Contact: (615) 373-5634 | brentwooddrivertraining.com
Pricing:
Teen Classroom + Driving Package: $450
Home Video Course: $595 (plus $20 credit card fee)
Insurance discount certificate included.
2. Nashville Driving School
Best For: Students and families seeking personalized instruction with flexible scheduling, on-site road testing, and a strong focus on safety fundamentals.
Philosophy: Safety is the number one concern at Nashville Driving School. The curriculum centers on helping students gain the knowledge and skills needed to make good decisions and react appropriately to unexpected situations. The school focuses on teaching basics and building knowledge gradually.
Services:
Teen Driver Education: 30-hour classroom sessions with flexible scheduling options.
Behind-the-Wheel Training: Individual lessons with experienced instructors.
Road Test: On-site driver’s license testing instead of DMV.
Adult Driver Education: Programs for new adult drivers and skill refreshers.
Location: 1161 Murfreesboro Pike, Suite 435, Nashville, TN 37217.
Contact: (615) 818-0875 | nashvilledrivingschool.com
Pricing:
Full Teen Program (30 hours classroom + 6 hours driving): Contact for current pricing.
Additional driving lessons available for extra practice.
Certificate for insurance discount provided upon completion.
3. Gureed Driving School
Best For: Diverse learners including international drivers, corporate clients, and individuals seeking personalized, patient instruction from experienced professionals.
Philosophy: Gureed (derived from “gure ed”) symbolizes commitment to providing top-tier education in road safety and driving proficiency. With over 15 years of experience and nearly 10,000 successful students, the school shapes confident, responsible drivers who navigate roads with skill and safety.
Services:
Behind-the-Wheel Training: 1.5-hour sessions totaling 6 hours of road practice.
Corporate Defense Classes: Tailored training for company fleet drivers and delivery personnel.
Tennessee Traffic School: Course for insurance discounts and license point mitigation.
International Driver Assistance: Helping foreign drivers adapt to Nashville roads.
Location: Serves the greater Nashville area (mobile instruction available).
Contact: Visit gureed.com for scheduling.
Pricing:
Behind-the-Wheel Session (1.5 hours): $125 per session.
Corporate Defense Class (2 hours): Starting at $190.
Traffic School Course: $50.
- Package deals available for multiple sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What are the requirements for teen drivers to get a license in Tennessee?
Tennessee teen drivers must be at least 15 years old to obtain a learner’s permit. They must complete 30 hours of classroom instruction and 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training with a licensed instructor. Additionally, teens must log 50 hours of supervised driving practice (including 10 hours at night) before taking the road test at age 16.
2. Can I take the driver’s license road test at a driving school instead of the DMV?
Yes, many Nashville-area driving schools like Brentwood Driver Training and Nashville Driving School are authorized to administer the road test on behalf of the state. This can provide a more convenient and less stressful testing experience. There is typically an additional fee (around $55) for this service.
3. How much does driver’s education cost in Nashville?
Nashville driver’s education programs typically range from $450 to $600 for complete teen programs including classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction. Individual driving lessons average $50-$125 per session. Some schools offer payment plans, and completing driver’s education often qualifies students for insurance discounts that can offset the cost.
4. Will completing driver’s education reduce my insurance rates?
Yes, most insurance companies offer discounts for completing an approved driver’s education course. The discount can be substantial, often three to four times the cost of the course, and may continue until the driver reaches age 25. It is recommended to check with your specific insurance provider about available discounts.
5. Do Nashville driving schools offer instruction for manual transmission vehicles?
Yes, some Nashville driving schools specialize in manual transmission instruction. Stick Shift Driving Academy focuses specifically on teaching people to drive manual cars safely. Many standard driving schools also offer manual transmission lessons upon request, though these may require additional fees or specialized scheduling.