Driving School VS Private Instructor In Singapore

When it comes to learning how to drive in Singapore, aspiring drivers like you are faced with an important decision: should you enrol in a driving school or opt for a private instructor? 

With both options offering unique advantages and considerations, it is essential to understand the differences between these two approaches and determine which one aligns better with your needs and preferences.

In this article, we will discuss how you can choose between a private instructor and a driving school in Singapore. 

• How Can You Get a Driver’s Licence In Singapore? 
• Driving Schools in Singapore
• Private Instructor in Singapore
• Factors to Consider When Choosing Between A Driving School vs Private Instructor in Singapore
  • Learning style
  • Instruction quality and experience
  • Cost and budget
  • Flexibility and scheduling
  • Range of vehicles and equipment
  • Pass rates and success rates

To get a driver’s licence in Singapore, you must open an account in one of the three schools in the country where you will do your practical and theory tests. If you have a private instructor, they should be able to assist you to book circuit slots so you can do your driving practice, as well as your practical test.

When getting a driver’s licence in Singapore, there are three tests you should prepare for. First is the Basic Theory Test, then the Provisional Driving License which is valid for 2 years and can be renewed. This will allow you to drive under guidance and supervision. After this, you must pass the Final Theory Test and Practical Test.

A driving school in Singapore will provide comprehensive driver education programs designed to equip learners with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the city’s busy roads. These schools follow a structured curriculum that covers theoretical lessons, practical driving sessions, and road safety regulations. 

Students like you can benefit from a standardised approach that ensures they receive a well-rounded education, including classroom instruction, simulated driving experiences, and supervised on-road practice. 

Additionally, a driving school in Singapore can provide access to a fleet of vehicles, allowing learners to gain familiarity with different car models and technologies. However, the downside of attending a driving school can be the lack of flexibility in scheduling.

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There are three driving schools you can choose from in Singapore. These schools cater to students who want a licence for manual and automatic transmission cars, lorries, buses, and motorcycles. 

Bukit Batok Driving Centre (BBDC)

Address: 815 Bukit Batok West Avenue 5

BBDC opening hours: 8:30 am to 7:30 pm

ComfortDelGro Driving Centre (CDC)

Address: 205 Ubi Ave 4 

CDC opening hours: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm

Singapore Safety Driving Centre (SSDC)

Address: 2 Woodlands Industrial Park E4 

SSDC opening hours: 9:15 am to 7:00 pm

Here are the fees associated with car driving centre options.

Keep in mind that you also need to pay for other fees like you digital photograph and eyesight test upon enrolment.

For people seeking a more flexible approach to learning how to drive in Singapore, private instructors offer an alternative to traditional driving schools.

Private instructors provide individualised instruction that is tailored to the specific needs and progress of each learner.

With one-on-one guidance, students like you can have the opportunity to focus on areas where you need improvement. This ensures a more efficient learning experience. Additionally, private instructors often offer greater flexibility in terms of scheduling driving lessons, accommodating busy lifestyles and allowing learners to progress at their own pace.

Although private instructors may not have the same structured curriculum or access to a wide range of vehicles as driving schools, their emphasis on customised instruction and adaptability can be highly advantageous for those seeking a more personalised approach to acquiring their driving skills.

Here are the costs associated with a private instructor in Singapore.

Still not sure if you want to go with a driving school in Singapore or a private instructor? The pointers below will guide you.

Consider your preferred learning style and individual needs. If you do better in a structured classroom environment with a standardised curriculum, a driving school might be the better choice. However, if you prefer personalised attention and a flexible learning approach that caters to your specific needs, a private instructor could be more suitable.

Assess the quality of instruction provided by both options. Research the reputation and track record of driving schools or private instructors. Look for reviews, testimonials, and recommendations from past students to gauge their teaching abilities and effectiveness in imparting driving skills and knowledge.

Evaluate the cost factor associated with each option. Driving schools often have fixed fees that cover both theory and practical lessons, while private instructors may offer more flexibility in pricing. Consider your budget and weigh it against the value and benefits you expect to receive from your chosen learning method. But generally, the total cost of driving licence for both options is roughly the same.

Also consider your availability and scheduling when choosing an option. Driving schools typically offer set class timings and may have limited flexibility, while private instructors often provide more customizable scheduling options.

If you have a busy schedule or specific time constraints, a private instructor could offer the flexibility you need to fit driving lessons into your routine.

Assess the availability and variety of vehicles and equipment offered by each option. Driving schools often have a fleet of vehicles for practice, giving learners exposure to different car models. Private instructors may have limited vehicle options, but they can still provide valuable learning experiences.

Look into the pass rates and success rates of driving schools and private instructors. While it is not a definitive measure of quality, it can give you an indication of their effectiveness in preparing students for the driving test and ensuring their success.

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If you passed your tests, congratulations! At this point, you just need to settle a S$50 fee for your driving licence. This is valid for life.

The choice between a driving school in Singapore and a private instructor is a personal decision that depends on various factors. Although driving schools offer structured education and access to a range of vehicles, private instructors provide customised instruction and flexible scheduling.

By carefully evaluating the factors listed above and aligning them with your individual preferences, you can choose the best option that suits your learning style. This will ensure a successful journey towards obtaining your driver’s licence in Singapore. Drive safe!

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