I learned to drive on a small farm in southern Missouri, surrounded by the Mark Twain National Forrest. As a farm boy, I drove tractors, mowers and even dirt-bikes. I finally got to experience learning to drive a motor vehicle . It was a 1970 Datsun pick-up with a manual shift transmission, meaning a clutch and gear shifter on the floor. I looked forward with great eagerness and anticipation in getting my driver's license. My license gave me a new world of independence, the ability to drive myself to school and work, or wherever I wanted to go. I was finally able to see a larger world outside of the farm and woods.
Who knew that my career path would put me in the "driver's seat" for the next 33 years with the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
I look forward to meeting people from all different walks of life and experiences. While our backgrounds may be different, I know you will anticipate, as I did, the enjoyment, freedom and independence a driver's license can give. I am ready to move from the driver's seat to the "passenger seat" and help you become a safe and skilled driver, ready for the road....
During our first lesson I evaluate the student's current level of driving skills and create an individualized lesson plan to best fit their needs. Every student's ability will vary, from never driving before to having a great deal of driving experience but needing help on passing their driver's test. My goal for all is to become a safe driver and pass the Missouri driver's test with ease. Knowing how the driver examiners grade and what they are looking for will be stressed in my driving lessons so there are no surprises on testing day.
I also teach skills drivers will need beyond what the driving test evaluates. Merging onto divided highways, how to negotiate J-turns, round abouts, parking lots, parallel parking and diverging diamond intersections are just a few of the things I cover that will help the student become a skilled driver. If you are looking for a driving school near Columbia or driving instruction in the Mid-Missouri area, give me a call and we can develop a plan to get you on the road.
All students seeking driving instruction must have obtained a Missouri driving permit or have a valid Driver License. Whether you are just learning to drive, moved to the United States from another country and seeking to become familiar with Missouri's driving laws or just need to brush up on your driving skills, I will give you my utmost attention and respect. I stress doing the things which will make you a safe and better driver and how to avoid being involved in a traffic crash. I will not take calls or be on my phone in any way during a driving lesson. I devote 100 percent of my attention to the student while driving.
I am willing to work with your schedule as much as possible. I will drive to you and all lessons will start after any questions you may have. All students will learn to drive in a 2023 Honda Accord or newer which is equipped with a camera and a passenger side brake. Before each lesson, we will go over how to operate the basic features of the vehicle. This is a requirement of the Missouri Driver Examiners who will ultimately give you your driving test.
I ask that any cancellations be made 24 hours prior to our scheduled lesson. If snow or ice is on the roadway, lessons during that time will be re-scheduled. In the event of bad weather occurring while giving a lesson, I will stop the lesson and return the student to the point of pick up or requested site. These lessons will be prorated as to the amount of instruction time given. Lessons given Tuesday - Saturday most weeks.
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Anxiety is a normal emotion for new drivers, but for some it can become a stumbling block. I understand that a critical or demanding demeanor will only exacerbate and increase anxiety for new drivers.
I have been able to assist new drivers in identifying their fears and provide suggestions for working through the anxiety they are experiencing. As an instructor, I prioritize staying patient and calm, and providing positive feedback to encourage drivers struggling with anxiety and uncertainty. As drivers gain more confidence in themselves and their ability to master driving skills, they report their anxiety also becomes more manageable and continues to decrease over time. This results in students becoming relaxed and comfortable and driving becomes an enjoyable experience and an accomplishment they can be proud of.
Students with learning difficulties can expect a calm and patient learning environment. I often seek alternative ways to teach and listen to the student's perspective on what works best for them. I will not raise my voice or show frustration during a driving lesson. I am glad to discuss with parents of minor students a best plan of action before and after lessons begin. My ultimate goal is helping others become safe drivers.
Lessons are billed at $100 for 90 minutes. My goal is to have all students pass their driving test on the first try. Many parents just need to get their children to a level where they are comfortable riding with them. I understand this and will work toward that, keeping the driving lessons affordable. I will not try to sell you additional lessons unless needed. I realize budgets can be tight and will do my best to work with everyone in keeping costs down. For students I have multiple lessons with and are comfortable driving my vehicle, I will take them to the testing area, do a pre-test, and wait while they use my vehicle to take their driving test. I am glad to accompany them after they pass to the Missouri Department of Revenue office while they get their license. I only charge $150.00 for this service.
I realize driving lessons can certainly be hard on the budget. I try to work with parents and adult students on keeping costs down. For many, it is worth the investment to have me from start to finish, especially for parents who have busy lives and careers. For others, I try to get the students to a level where parents feel safe and comfortable riding with their children.
Whether preparing someone for the driver's test or taking them out for the first time, I am glad to provide instruction that fits each individuals needs and price range.