Ethan BrownIt’s high time you learned the answer to that classic question: “What do you hit if you see a grandpa and a kid crossing the street?” Before you start debating about who’s had more time on this Earth, you should hit the BRAKES!
If you’ve been putting off learning to drive because the road feels intimidating (or public transit is just too convenient), you’re not alone. But when you’re ready to take the wheel and go on trips, choosing the right driving school can make all the difference.
Luckily, Ottawa has some great options, with patient instructors, flexible scheduling, and courses that make learning to drive less scary. We’ve reviewed the best ones so you can confidently choose the right school and get on the road!
| How much do driving school lessons cost in Ottawa? On average, driving school costs in Ottawa range from $40-$50 for a 1-hour session to $80-$100 for a 2-hour session. Longer courses, like a 6-hour course, cost $250-$350, while a 10-hour course is $400-$500.A 20-hour course, which includes a car for a 2-hour road test, costs $600-$1500. The MTO certified driver’s education program, including a workbook and certification, is priced at $600-$1200. |
How We Chose The Best Driving Schools in Ottawa
1. Kruzee Driving School
Address: 104 Crockford Blvd Scarborough
Phone: +1 (866) 245-3103 / [email protected]
Business hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 9 AM – 6 PM
If you want to learn how to drive without the usual stress, Kruzee Driving School could be your best bet. What sets Kruzee apart from other schools is its convenience—you can book lessons and track your progress online!
With them, you can easily book lessons online and see the assigned instructor. Plus, they offer free pickup and dropoff, so no worries about commuting.
We must note, though, that it’s not that easy to choose an instructor (if you have preferences) since you’re paired with one depending on your area and schedule. Nonetheless, Kruzee’s customer service is responsive and helpful if you have any concerns.
Overall, the scheduling tool is a big win for students who need flexibility, and the fact that you can complete the in-class theory portion online is a real time-saver.
Kruzee’s user-friendly, digital-first approach has been recognized by major publications like the Toronto Star, Bloomberg, Yahoo Finance, CityNews, and Financial Post. They’re also accredited by the BBB and have solid ratings!
They offer three pricing options: Practice Lessons at $65 per hour, a Base BDE package for $695, and a Road Test Vehicle package for $245. You can check out what’s included in each package on their website.
With Kruzee, driving lessons feel simpler, more flexible, and definitely more convenient.
Passed G2 on the first try
“10/10 would recommend Steev as a driving instructor. I passed my G2 exam on the first try! He was a wonderful instructor and took the time to make me feel at ease while driving and before my test. He is a great instructor!”
-Amanda R, Google Review
Great with nervous drivers
“Jason Ho is THE guy you want as your instructor, especially if the idea of driving in Toronto makes you nervous like I was before my first lesson. He’s patient, encouraging, and kind – all the qualities you want in someone you’ll spend hours in traffic with! Passed my G at Downsview and couldn’t thank him enough for all the support. Also, the overall experience with Kruzee was amazing: hassle-free online booking and superb customer service!”
-Tatiane de Sousa, Google Review
2. Premier Roads Online Driving School
Services: BDE Online Course, BDE Online Course With Extra In-Car Training, Road Test Preparation Packages, G2 Road Test Package, Full G Road Test Package, In-Car Driving Lessons, 5-Hour Foundation Package, 10-Hour Comprehensive Package, Road Test Car Rental Support
Location: 320 Bryarton Street, Ottawa, ON K1C 7R5
Contact: +1 343-322-2302
Business Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Premier Roads Online Driving School positions itself as a leading driving education provider in Ottawa by combining MTO-approved standards with modern, flexible learning. Its approach focuses not only on helping students pass their driving tests, but also on developing safe, confident, and responsible drivers for the long term.
What makes Premier Roads stand out as a strong “best driving school” candidate is its emphasis on structured, regulated training alongside flexible learning options. As an MTO-approved school, it follows official curriculum standards designed to prepare students for real licensing requirements, road safety expectations, and everyday driving situations.
One of the school’s biggest differentiators is that it is the only driving school in Ottawa offering an unlimited hours package, with conditions applying. This unique option can provide exceptional value for learners who want extra driving practice, additional confidence behind the wheel, and ongoing instructor support without worrying about strict hour limitations.
The school also builds its reputation on convenience by allowing students to complete theory lessons online at their own pace. This flexible format makes the program highly accessible for beginners, students, and busy individuals who need a more adaptable learning schedule.
Another defining strength is Premier Roads’ focus on instructor quality and safety-first teaching methods. Certified instructors guide students through defensive driving techniques, road awareness, hazard recognition, and real-world decision-making skills that are essential for long-term driving success.
Premier Roads also integrates practical in-car lessons and road test preparation packages that help bridge the gap between classroom learning and real driving experience. This includes structured driving sessions, route familiarization, and test-readiness training designed to help students feel more comfortable and prepared on exam day.
Support throughout the learning process is another reason the school is often positioned as a top choice. Students have access to guidance from instructors and support staff throughout their training, creating a more reassuring and supportive experience for learners at different confidence levels.
Overall, Premier Roads Online Driving School stands out as a strong option for learners who value convenience, structured education, and safety-focused instruction. Their flexible online learning system, experienced instructors, and exclusive unlimited hours package make them especially appealing for beginners seeking a more supported and confidence-building path toward becoming licensed drivers.
Very convenient online course.
“Very convenient online course. In car lessons are very beneficial and thorough with patient instructors that help build good driving habits!”
–brayn raya, Google Review
Amazing instructor, 10/10
“I passed on the first try!!! Amazing instructor, 10/10. Thank you Nidal for your patience and dedication, I couldn’t have done it without your help! :)”
–Sandra Chaaban, Google Review
3. City Driver Training
Address: 595 Montreal Road, Unit 105 Ottawa, ON K1K 4L2
Phone: 613.748.5254 / [email protected]
Business hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM
City Driver Training is a Ministry-Approved Beginner Driver Education Course Provider in Ottawa that focuses heavily on defensive driving and road safety. Their training philosophy centers on creating skilled and confident drivers through structured lessons and professional instruction.
One of the standout aspects of City Driver Training is its complete beginner training program. Students receive 20 hours of classroom instruction along with private in-car training for both automatic and manual transmission vehicles.
The school also emphasizes practical defensive driving techniques that go beyond basic driving lessons. Training includes airbag safety, ABS emergency braking, swerving techniques, and rear collision avoidance.
City Driver Training provides flexible support for students preparing for their road tests. They can assist with road test bookings, offer additional in-car lessons, and even provide a vehicle for the test itself.
Their instructors are described as certified, friendly, and professionally trained with years of teaching experience. This creates a supportive learning environment for beginners as well as drivers seeking refresher lessons.
Another advantage of choosing City Driver Training is the potential insurance benefit after course completion. Graduates may qualify for insurance discounts through the recognized Driver’s License History certificate.
City Driver Training also offers personalized programs tailored to individual learning goals. Their focus on quality instruction and customer satisfaction makes them a dependable option for new drivers in Ottawa.
City drivers is a Amazing driving school.
“City drivers is a Amazing driving school. Thank you to Radek and Robert who taught me protective and practical driving skills. All of the techniques I learned especially with parking and well taught lessons allowed me to pass my G2 on the first try. Thank you very much”
–Malikai Manning, Google Review
Great experience!
“Great experience! The instructor at City Drivers Training School are highly skilled.My instructor was calm, supportive, and made learning to drive much easier. Highly recommend.”
–Divya Sood, Google Review
4. Let’s Go Driving School
Address: 1390 Prince of Wales Dr Unit 508
Phone: +1 613-890-8833
Business hours: Monday to Sunday: 9 AM – 5 PM
Let’s Go Driving School is a great option for students in Ottawa, especially if you’re after a Ministry-Approved Beginner Driver Education (BDE) course. This approval means they meet high standards, which is exactly what you want when learning a skill as important as driving.
One of the advantages of Let’s Go is its online courses, which are perfect if you prefer to learn the theory side of driving from home. The private in-car lessons, combined with their well-equipped classrooms, make for a well-rounded experience.
From what we’ve heard, their instructors are patient, especially with anxious students, and they provide clear guidelines to help you prepare for the exam.
On the downside, their courses tend to fill up quickly. Although it’s easy to book once you’re in the system, you’ll want to act fast to secure your preferred schedule.
Overall, Let’s Go Driving School offers reliable instruction with flexible scheduling options, making it a strong choice for new drivers in Ottawa.
Patient and accommodating instructor
“I have passed my G2 exam in first attempt and truly enjoyed experience of learning with my instructor Hind. She is very patient and provided me all the guidelines for the exam. She was also very flexible with scheduling driving lesson.”
-Chowdhury Saleha Ferdowsy, Google Review
Excellent refresher sessions
“Took a private lesson for 2 hours as a refresher session (converting a foreign license to Ontarian) and rented a car from them for the full G-license driving test. Nedal is a great instructor, and the session was insightful! Totally recommend for foreigners who are trying to make sure they’ll pass the license conversion test!”
-Rheza Adizora, Google Review
5. Driving School/ Ottawa Safe Drivers
Address: 2444 St Joseph Blvd
Phone: +1 613-400-7071
Business hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 9 AM – 6 PM
- Sunday: 9 AM – 5 PM
Ottawa Safe Drivers offers a comprehensive learning experience with Ministry of Transportation approval, ensuring that their courses meet government standards. Their home pickup and drop-off service is a nice perk, saving students the hassle of arranging transportation to and from lessons.
Another highlight is their online self-study course for theory lessons. This allows you to learn at your own pace, perfect for those with busy or unpredictable schedules.
Their preparation for G2 and G road tests is also commendable, offering rental vehicles to ensure you have a reliable car on test day, which can help alleviate stress.
While their services are strong, the pricing might be a concern for some. Ottawa Safe Drivers charges $60 per hour for private lessons, which is slightly higher than the typical range of $40-$50 in Ottawa.
Nonetheless, if convenience and quality instruction are your priorities, the extra cost may be worth it. They also offer courses in multiple languages, a great feature if English isn’t your first language.
Constructive, caring and calm
“My driving instructor, Fahim, has been phenomenal. His teaching style is constructive, caring, and calm, which made learning to drive a breeze. He thoroughly covered all aspects of driving, including safety, rules of the road, and car handling. Thanks to his excellent guidance, I passed my G2 on the first try. Highly recommended!”
-Dany S, Google Review
Extremely kind and patient
“Jubouri was extremely kind and patient. I started off with little to no knowledge or experience then after a few hours of lessons I was able to pass my g2 test. I would highly recommend Ottawa Safe Drivers!”
–Mady Martel, Google Review
6. Allpros-Drivers-Ed.com
Address: 569 McArthur Ave.
Phone: +1 613-747-0089
Business hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9 AM – 9 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 12 PM – 5 PM
Allpros-Drivers-Ed.com has a great reputation, with 90% of students passing the driving test on their first try, showing effective courses. Plus, with over 15,000 students successfully getting their licenses through them, it’s clear that their instructors are experienced and reliable.
We like that they offer courses in both English and French, making them accessible to a wider community.
It’s also worth noting that they can cater to busy professionals by providing evening and weekend classes. Whether you’re a student or a working adult, this flexibility is a lifesaver.
On top of that, they offer special lessons like automatic and standard transmission training, as well as senior-friendly courses.
However, they don’t offer pick-up and drop-off services. This could be inconvenient if you rely on public transportation or don’t have a way to get to the lessons.
But if you don’t mind making the trip, the quality of education at Allpros is worth considering.
Excellent instructor
“Philip is an amazing instructor, very professional! Felt very confident on the road with him, and he made sure I passed my G on the first try. Would recommend Philip to anyone looking for an excellent instructor”
-Mujtaba Hussain, Google Review
Patient and supportive teacher
“I had a great experience preparing for and passing the road test with All Pros. Philip is extremely patient, supportive, and a great teacher. As someone who was anxious when it came to driving, Philip helped me improve my driving skills while building my confidence on the road. I highly recommend this driving school. Thank you!”
-Daniela Veisman, Google Review
7. safe2pass driving school
Address: 1581 Bank St
Phone: +1 613-276-0456
Business hours: Monday to Sunday: 9 AM – 6 PM
Safe2Pass offers Ministry- and MTO-approved BDE courses, ensuring high standards while making lessons both fun and engaging. Their flexible scheduling is a major plus, with evening and weekend classes available, ideal for students or working professionals with packed weekday schedules.
We also love that you have the option to choose female instructors, which can be especially comforting for women who prefer learning from female teachers.
And hats off to Safe2Pass for being known for its supportive environment, particularly for anxious students. Many have praised the instructors for their patience and ability to build confidence.
From our surveys, they provide clear, helpful guidance throughout lessons and willingly answer questions about real-world driving challenges.
But it’s quite a bummer that they don’t offer lessons with standard transmission vehicles, which might be a drawback for those wanting to learn manual driving.
Regardless, if you’re focused on automatic driving and looking for a flexible and supportive school, Safe2Pass is a reliable pick.
Insightful lessons
“Great course. I chose the BDE in person learning course which was very helpful for me, especially as someone who never drove before. The in class lessons were really insightful and the use of diagrams made it more clear and easy for me to understand the techniques.”
-Hoshika Balloo, Google Review
Good experience with instructor
“I had a really good experience with safe2pass. Lina was an amazing instructor for my g2 prep, only practiced for 10 hours and passed the test on the first try and will train with her again for the g test. Highly recommend to anyone!”
-zaina luthon, Google Review
8. Roadcraft Driving School
Address: 2255 St. Laurent Blvd., Suite 130, Ottawa, ON, K1G 4K3
Phone: 613-850-1469
Business hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9 AM – 7 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 10 AM – 4PM
Roadcraft Driving School has established itself as one of the leading driving schools in Ottawa, thanks to its Ministry of Transportation Ontario (MTO)-approved Beginner Driver Education (BDE) program and a strong focus on safety and affordability.
Roadcraft’s BDE program meets the high standards set by the MTO, ensuring students receive top-tier driver education. Completing this program not only equips students with essential knowledge but may also qualify them for insurance discounts.
The school boasts a team of highly experienced instructors, both male and female, who can teach in various languages, including English, French, Arabic, Hindi, Urdu, Filipino, Tigrinya, and Bengali. This inclusivity makes Roadcraft an excellent choice for Ottawa’s multicultural community.
In addition to the BDE program, Roadcraft offers Defensive Driving Courses, Driver Corrective Courses, and in-car driving lessons tailored to individual skill levels. These options cater to both beginners and those seeking to refine their driving abilities.
Roadcraft’s vehicles are equipped with dual gas and brake systems for added safety during lessons. Their emphasis on defensive driving ensures students are not only prepared to pass their tests but also to handle real-world driving scenarios responsibly.
The school’s commitment to keeping costs low makes quality driving education accessible. Packages are thoughtfully designed to suit diverse budgets and goals, from basic skills training to road test preparation.
Roadcraft offers self-paced eLearning platforms and engaging online BDE courses, making it easier for busy individuals to fit lessons into their schedules. The use of state-of-the-art classroom technology further enhances the learning experience.
The availability of insured and fully licensed vehicles for road tests is a convenient option for students who may not have access to their own car.
Roadcraft has earned a stellar reputation in Ottawa for its professionalism and effective training methods, reflected in positive client success stories.
