10 Questions to Ask Before Booking a Driving Instructor

This should be your very first question. Every state in Australia requires driving instructors to hold a specific licence or accreditation. In NSW, this is a Driving Instructor Licence issued by Transport for NSW. In Victoria, it is a Driving Instructor Authority from VicRoads.

A professional instructor will be happy to show you their credentials. If they hesitate or deflect, that is a red flag. On 1Stop, every listed instructor has their accreditation verified before they can create a profile.

Experience matters. An instructor who has helped hundreds of students pass their test will have a deep understanding of what examiners look for, which mistakes to avoid, and how to build your confidence quickly.

Ask for their approximate pass rate too. While no instructor can guarantee a 100% pass rate (and you should be wary of anyone who claims they can), a rate above 85% is a strong indicator of quality.

An instructor based near your test centre should know the routes inside out. They should be able to take you through the specific streets, intersections, and roundabouts that examiners use.

If an instructor does not know the test routes for your chosen centre, they may be based too far away to give you the best possible preparation. Look for instructors on 1Stop who list your test centre area as their primary coverage zone.

Lesson structures vary widely between instructors. Some offer 45-minute lessons, others offer 60 or 90 minutes. Some include pick-up and drop-off in the lesson time; others start the clock when you get in the car.

Ask about: - Lesson duration (actual driving time vs total time) - Pick-up and drop-off arrangements - Whether they provide a dual-control car - If mock tests are included - Whether they offer package deals or discounts for block bookings

Many learners prefer to take their driving test in their instructor's car — the same vehicle they have been practising in. This removes the stress of unfamiliar controls and ensures the car meets all test requirements (dual controls, correct signage, etc.).

Most professional instructors allow this, but it is worth confirming upfront. Some may charge a small additional fee for test-day car use.

Everyone learns differently. Some students respond well to a calm, patient approach. Others prefer direct, clear instructions. Ask the instructor about their teaching style and whether they adapt to different learning needs.

A great instructor will tailor their approach to you — not force you into a one-size-fits-all method. Reading reviews from other students on their 1Stop profile can give you a good sense of their style.

If you want to learn manual, make sure the instructor offers manual lessons and has a manual car. Automatic is increasingly popular in Australia, and many modern instructors only teach automatic.

If you are unsure which to choose, ask the instructor for their recommendation based on your needs and goals.

If English is not your first language, learning to drive in your native language can make a huge difference. Many instructors on 1Stop speak multiple languages — check their profile or ask directly.

This is especially important for the early lessons when you are learning terminology and building foundational skills. Clear communication with your instructor is essential for safety.

Life happens, and sometimes you need to reschedule. Ask about the instructor's cancellation policy before you book. Most require at least 24-48 hours notice to avoid a cancellation fee.

Understanding this upfront avoids surprises and helps you plan your lessons around your schedule.

Genuine reviews from past students are the best indicator of what your experience will be like. On 1Stop, every instructor has a verified review profile where past and current students share their honest feedback.

Look for patterns in the reviews: consistent praise for patience, route knowledge, and pass rates is a strong sign. A few negative reviews among many positive ones is normal — no one is perfect.