Policy

Scheduling Lessons

Booking: Students can book lessons via phone, email, or through our website. All lessons must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance unless otherwise stated.
Deposit/ Cancellations: A $30 deposit is required to secure each lesson. Deposit must be paid by e-transfer or cash at least 24 hours before the lesson start time. If the student attends the lesson as scheduled, the deposit will be credited toward the lesson fee. If the student cancels with less than 24 hours’ notice, is a no-show or arrives more than 15 minutes late, the deposit will be forfeited and will not be applied to future bookings.
Lateness Policy: Students must arrive on time for scheduled lessons. If a student is more than 15 minutes late, the instructor reserves the right to cancel the lesson without refund. If the lesson proceeds, it will still end at the originally scheduled time and will not be extended.

2. Payment Policies

Payment Methods: Acceptable payment methods include cash and e-transfers.
Payment Timing: Payment must be made in full before or at the start of each lesson. Packages must be paid in full upfront to receive a discount.
Deposits: A deposit of $30 is required to secure your spot for lesson packages. This deposit is non-refundable but will be applied toward the total cost of your lessons.
Full Payment: The remaining balance must be paid in full before or at the start of the first scheduled lesson.
Package Expiration: Lesson packages must be completed within 6 months of the first lesson, or the remaining lessons will be forfeited. There are no refunds for in-car lessons after one year from the invoice date.
Refunds for Unused Lessons: No refunds will be issued for unused hours within a lesson package.

3. Instructor Conduct

Professionalism: All instructors are trained, certified professionals who maintain a professional demeanor, treat students with respect, and create a positive learning environment.
Punctuality: Instructors will arrive on time for scheduled lessons. If an instructor is running late, they will notify the student as soon as possible.

4. Student Conduct

Behavior: Students are expected to arrive on time, be prepared for their lessons, and conduct themselves in a respectful manner.
Substance Policy: Students must not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs during lessons. Instructors reserve the right to terminate a lesson if a student appears impaired.
Preparation: Students should come prepared for each lesson, which includes having their learner’s permit (if applicable) and wearing appropriate clothing and footwear for driving (closed-toe shoes required.)
Safety First: Students must adhere to all safety guidelines provided by the instructor. This includes wearing seatbelts at all times and following the instructor’s directions promptly.
No Phone Policy: To ensure full attention and safety during driving lessons, students must refrain from using their phones or any other electronic devices. Phones should be silenced and put away during lessons. If a student needs to take an important call, they should inform the instructor and step out of the vehicle.

5. Lesson Structure

In-Car Lessons: Each lesson will include a pre-driving briefing, in-car instruction, and a post-lesson debrief. Students will receive feedback on their performance.
Classroom Instruction: If applicable, classroom sessions will cover essential driving topics and provide opportunities for questions and discussions.

6. Safety Policies

Vehicle Maintenance: All vehicles used for instruction will be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure safety.
Emergency Procedures: Instructors will have a plan in place for emergencies, including what to do in case of an accident.

7. Road Test & Vehicle Use

Road Test Booking by School: Advantage Driving School LTD offers to book a student’s road test once using ICBC’s standard online wait times. If a road test appointment is booked by the school and needs to be cancelled, the student must notify the school at least 48 hours in advance. If proper notice is not given, ICBC may charge a $25 cancellation fee which is the responsibility of the student. Due to the unpredictable appointment availability, students are encouraged to also try booking their road tests themselves.
Vehicle Rental for Road Test: Students may rent a school vehicle for their ICBC road test (subject to availability and additional fee.) If an accident occurs during the road test, the student is liable for any damage costs, regardless of whether they are at fault or not.

8. Feedback and Evaluation

Progress Reports: Students will receive periodic progress reports outlining their strengths and areas for improvement.
Debriefing: Each lesson ends with a 10-minute debrief, allowing students to receive verbal feedback, ask questions and set goals for improvement.
Feedback: Students are encouraged to provide feedback on their lessons to help us improve our services.

9. Refunds and Complaints

Refund Policy: No refunds will be issued for lessons once the lesson has been provided, or if a student fails to attend a scheduled lesson. Refunds for unused lessons will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Students must submit a written request for a refund. No refunds will be issued for any in-car lessons after one year from the invoice date.
Complaint Resolution: Any complaints should be sent to advantagedrivingschoolbc@gmail.com. We aim to resolve all complaints promptly and fairly.

10. Privacy Policy

Data Protection: Student information will be kept confidential and used only for the purposes of providing driving instruction and communicating with students.

11. Policy Review

These policies will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to ensure compliance with local regulations and best practices.