Because of his anxiety, my teenage son wasn't motivated to learn to drive. The driver's ed scared him and he was content to be driven around. I wanted him to learn to drive and gain independence. My friend who used Strive Driving School for her son recommended we try Strive. My 16-year-old son gained confidence and knowledge in his four 1.5 hour lessons leading up to his driver's test. Yesterday he took his driver's license test for the first time and scored 96%. We're extremely happy and relieved. Thank you, Strive. read more

My daughter's instructor, Eric, was fantastic. We are very sad that Eric left, but we are very grateful to the owner, Evan, who issued us a letter that enabled us to finish out the remaining two hours at another school. Also, huge shoutout to the lady who works reception! She is very kind, professional, and prompt. Real pleasure to deal with. read more

My son had lesson with Evan and Evan is a great teacher and very patient. My son was very nervous in the beginning but got comfortable after several lessons. He got all the knowledge and skills from Evan to pass the driving test. read more

Best driving experience ever, Eric is awesome! I've never driven a car before so I might be a little biased since I have nothing to compare it to... Eric arrived early at our house, met my parents, talked about what we would do during the first lesson, and even said that I might be able to drive back home and park on the hill! I was very nervous at first and I thought that there was no way I would be able to drive around the block, let alone park on our very steep hill. Despite me not remembering that R means 'Reverse' at the beginning or that the turn signal lever is, in fact, not attached to the steering wheel, somehow Eric was able to coach me through hand-over-hand steering, driving around the neighborhood, making left/right turns, making a U-Turn, making a 3-point turn, parking in two kinds of parking spaces, backing up along the curb, changing lane on a slightly busier road, driving up and down hills, and then parking uphill back at home ALL during the first lesson. He guided me through the steps for every turn, stop sign, intersection, and did not get angry or frustrated when I kept driving too slowly, stopping too early, or drifting onto the wrong side of the road... Thankfully, Eric is very experienced and patient. He was chill, talked through each step the entire time, and safely (and calmly) corrected my mistakes. 100/10 would recommend! read more

Eric was amazing, but he left before my son could finish his lessons. The first time Evan taught my son, he said my son was a great driver and not much to improve on. The second lesson, Evan was horrible as he used profanities, didn't know the right way to pass construction on the street, and took over steering and drove recklessly with a minor in the car. I tried to reach out twice after this, and he wouldn't return my calls and still charged a cancellation fee. read more

Thank you, Strive , thank you Evan!! My son took just one driving lesson (3d stage of preparing him for DMV driving test) and successfully passed his driving test at the San Mateo DMV. I think Strive set him up for success at the most intimidating DMV. What more could we hope for?! Thank you, Strive, for helping my son to be confident and helping him successfully pass his driving test! read more

My 16 year old got the driver's license on the first attempt. She did the 4 required 1.5 hrs lessons with Eric M at Strive. Eric was an excellent instructor, always arrived 5-10 mins before start time, and ended each lesson by meeting us and going over the things they worked on and what she needs more practice with. We also did the Vehicle Dynamics course, which was a 4 hr course and really well put together by the team. Overall, we are very happy with the quality, content, and customer experience with Strive Driving School. read more

Eric was the best, he had a very calming attitude and was able to help me get through some of the harder aspects I I found in driving. He did overall an amazing job. Evan on the other hand, stressed me out and poorly affected my driving performance. He was unprofessional at times in his language and mannerisms. I had to pull over at one point to tell him to stop talking to me so much while driving. My two lessons with Evan were horrible compared to my time with Eric. read more

My third son just successfully passed his driving test at the San Mateo DMV. All three boys trained with Strive Driving School and all three passed the first time at the San Mateo DMV. I know many families who have their kids take the driving test at other DMVs b/c the San Mateo branch only has a 50% pass rate. Obviously Strive set them up for success at the most intimidating DMV. What more could we hope for?! Thank you, Strive, for helping me launch confident, qualified drivers into the world! read more

My son needed a driving school to get his license. This was not an easy choice since there's lots of schools available. Evan & his team were great. Taking a series of classes helped my son get the knowledge and confidence to safely drive. He recently passed the DMV test with a perfect score! The only potential downside, is that these guys are becoming really popular so classes fill up quickly so you need to plan ahead. read more

Strive Driving School - Driving Schools Near Me

I can't say enough about how good these guys are. I was SO happy to be referred to such a fantastic 'company' that really personalized our experience. read more

I had avoided driving all through my adult life, and I was always that friend that people had to pick up to get to places. I finally decided that I wanted to start driving on my own, and I began searching for driving schools since I forgot much of what I had learned. I'm so glad I found Strive Driving School. I came into lessons at first embarrassed that I had very little driving experience as an adult, and also nervous being out on the road, especially freeways. Evan and Eric helped put me at ease by being incredibly patient, kind, and great teachers. After taking two lessons with them, I became a much more confident and comfortable driver. I even recently drove both to SF and Palo Alto via freeway from the peninsula on my own, which I never would have had the courage to do before the lessons. Thank you Evan and Eric for helping me to feel so much more empowered! read more

Nervous mama of a teenager here, and I felt 100% comfortable with my son behind the wheel with Evan. Every step of working with Strive Driving School exceeded my expectations. From the wonderful conversation I had with the lady in the office who answered all of my questions, and again nervous mama here so I had lots and lots of question, to our first appointment where Evan took time to show my son parts of the car, not only gadgets in the drivers seat but under the hood as well, to our final lesson and his detailed report. Having a teenage driver may be one of the scariest parenting milestones so far, but with the guidance of Strive Driving School and Evan it's made this process that mush easier. read more

Last June, I hardly had any driving experience at all and was hesitant to hire a driving instructor. I was recommended to contact Evan from Strive Driving School by a close friend who had also used his services and easily passed her driving test. I had two instructors total - Evan and Eric. They were both extremely informative and taught me the basics of driving, correct ways to operate the vehicle, etc. Everything I needed to do to pass the test at the DMV. I only had two lessons with them but I was able to achieve my license with the knowledge and practice that I learned with Evan. He really pushed me to excel during practice, which helped me have more confidence in my driving. Now, eight months later, I'm on the road every day! I even have a job which requires me to drive as well. I don't know what I would have done without their lessons. I highly recommend this business if you want to quickly and efficiently learn how to drive!! read more

Disclaimer: I only did the pre-test lesson, as I complete my normal lessons with another instructor. I was recommended Strive by a friend of mine. I was met by Evan and he helped work through everything before the test. I had previously taken the driving test and failed because I had failed to look over my shoulder before changing into the bike lane. Anyways, I was very hesitant and worried because I felt like I would fail the driving test again. But Evan was able to help me out and pull me through everything. He is very precise in what he gave me. Strive has their own sheet that is similar to the one that the driving testers use when they grade you. If you are worried about the criteria, just ask him to explain it. My mom was very worried about what it would be like because she hasn't taken the driving test in many many years. So before we took off, he came inside and sat down with us to explain, very precisely, what would and wouldn't be on the test. ] Out on the drive, he is very exact about driving. He takes every little part of the driving, looking over your shoulders, parking, checking for traffic, all of that is part of the lesson and he fine tunes everything. Of course when you are doing it gets very boring, but he knows that and he knows that you want to pass the test so he is really strict, wanting to make sure everything is perfect. If you want to make sure you are absolutely ready for the driving test, you cannot go wrong with Strive. read more

We live in Palo Alto. Eric met us at Menlo park/Woodside order for lessons. So, yes, they did not come to our house for pickup (since we live too far south for them to do that), but it was the best investment (dollar and time wise) we have ever made. 4 lessons and my daughter (who had NEVER driven before) passed her DMV test with flying colors. I am using them for my other kids when time comes! read more

Evan is relatable for young drivers, but also very professional. He understands nervous parents and takes the time to check in after each session to give you a report. Many of my friends with teens recommended Strive and I'm glad they did. My son passed his DMV driving test the first time out in a horrible downpour. Despite the weather, Strive had prepared him. If I could give them more stars, I certainly would! read more

Highly recommend. My 16 year old just got her license after thorough and safe lessons with Eric. The school has a comprehensive and easy to navigate website to book your lessons, and Evan communicated instantly with me to answer any questions I had. My only tip (which just attests to the popularity of this school, especially when summer starts heading around) is that you must book as early as you can, so plan well in advance if you would like to take lessons from these guys, as they book more than a month ahead (about 1.5 - 2 months). They have an easy cancellation system so if you even think you want to try for a lesson in that time then get it fast and then cancel it later if you need to. read more

My son had Eric for his driving instructor and absolutely loved him!! I noticed so much improvement with his driving after the first lesson. By his final lesson I felt so comfortable in the car with my son and he felt confident being on the road. He took his test a week later and passed! Thanks Eric for giving my son the confidence and tools to make him a safe driver! read more

If I could give more than five stars, I totally would! I have been a driver for 15 years in Europe and recently I moved to the US. I was so anxious with learning how to drive, but my instructor Eric was terrific and his great teaching made me pass the test today! He understood my weakness at the very first moment and then we worked together to fix all major mistakes. He was always kind and patient, also very professional. Today's success with my behind-the-wheel-test was totally thanks to him! read more

My daughter took two classes with Evan. He was great and patient. He made her feel like he really cared and wanted her to have a good experience. When I had a question and emailed he replied immediately. We would recommend Strive. Just wish they weren't so good, I guess, because they get booked up fast. read more

Eric was my behind the wheel instructor and he was super nice. He took a 90 minute session and explained all the key points very well. I would definitely recommend this driving school to my friends. read more

I've been a master procrastinator when it comes to learning to drive, and I'm generally very fearful of driving in SF where there are so many hills and freeways. But now that I live in the outskirts of the city, I really need to know how to drive! A friend recommended Evan as an instructor, so I decided to get him to help me prep for my driving test. Evan's not only a very professional teacher, he makes driving fun! He settled my nerves upfront by taking some time to explain every important aspect of the vehicle so I felt in control. He also gave me a helpful checklist of things you need to know for the CA driving test, and we went through them 1 by 1. I would never have tackled the freeways with a friend/family member, but felt safe doing so with a professional instructor (who also has a spare brake pedal). Highly recommend lessons with Evan! read more

I heard about Strive through a friend of mine offering a glowing recommendation. I didn't see very many reviews so I was a bit remiss about trying an unfamiliar business. My concern was definitely unnecessary. Eric was our instructor; he was super nice and very patient whenever I made a mistake(like every other minute), showing me how to fix them(parallel parking c'mon!). He made an otherwise nerve wracking experience a whole lot better. He clearly knows what he's doing behind the wheel and seems to really enjoy cars. 5 stars, easy read more

This place helped me a lot with driving. They instructors teach you the ins and outs of defensive driving and helped me with getting my license. read more

We highly recommend Strive Driving school for your son/daughter. We recently finished all the lessons and our daughter passed the DMV driving test with flying colors. The lessons and how they prepare you for the test are absolutely the best. My daughter had Evan, who was calm and patient and explained everything really well. After Evan's lessons, our daughter was well prepared for her driving test. read more

I would highly recommend Strive Driving School for those who wants to be more confident on the road. The process of booking a lesson is through site, which is really convenient. I have taken 2 lessons and each time everything was organized and in time. Evan is patient, supportive and explains well. Thanks! read more

This review is long overdue. We used Strive Driving school when my son was preparing to get his license. Evan was the instructor and did a great job teaching my teen everything he needed to be safe on the road. He provided quick reports afterwards with recommendations or suggestions on areas for improvement. My daughter will be getting her learners permit soon and we'll definitely be calling Strive. read more

We were recommended to use Strive Driving School by a colleague and she was right. We have been very satisfied with the information and instruction provided by Evan. He has provided my son with good insight and helpful feedback. I feel much more comfortable driving with my son due to the excellent experience he received from Evan. Evan has taught him to be a confident and skilled driver. I am looking forward to my son's next lesson. read more

This was the best we could have asked for with our first time experience of preparing our daughter for her driving test. My Daughter worked with Evan who was very patient and calm with a first time driver. She passed the driving test first time with no issues. The work behind the wheel with Evan and his careful preparation ensured she was comfortable with the challenge ahead. I can not recommend Evan and Strive highly enough. Great company. read more

I had been trying to overcome my fear of driving for months at this point. I literally could not drive past 10 mph without being terrified. I'm pretty sure this was caused by a combination of an inadequate past instructor and my mother being very nervous when driving with me. I was running out of time to take my test as my permit was going to expire in less than three months, and I was not even close to ready; I had the skills of a beginner driver. I decided the only way to actually pass the test was to take more lessons. I did some research, and this school seemed to have exactly what I was looking for. Even though it was more pricey than some of the other schools I found, I figured it would be worth it, and at this point, my mom was willing to spend anything to get me to drive. I figured one lesson would be enough to get my confidence and be ready for the test. I ended up taking 4. However, after just one lesson, I was a COMPLETELY different driver. I cannot stress this enough. I went from scared to drive over 10 mph to comfortably driving 30 mph in 3 days after the lesson. Instead of dreading driving practice, I looked forward to it. As I started to become more confident, my driving skills improved, and my mom also became less nervous. I took the rest of my lessons, and I saw myself improve dramatically. I took the test in Redwood City. I didn't pass my first time, although I personally think that was not a fair test. I took it again in San Mateo on the day my permit expired, and, fortunately, passed. At that point, I felt very comfortable behind the wheel and was driving pretty much everywhere with my mom. Now, I am super confident in my driving and super grateful to Evan, who taught me all four lessons, because I don't think I ever would have passed without him. read more

Had a great 1 1/2 hour "lesson" in driving a manual transmission in our hilly City. Evan was very observant, clearly communicated his suggestions, and explained the mechanical reasoning for specific techniques. He has a patient manner and was very professional.Well worth the time, and I felt like I got more than my money's worth. read more

I would not recommend Strive 2 Drive Rick kept falling asleep while my daughter was driving and when he wasn't asleep he was on the phone. They never did half of the stuff that was described on the website course description. Oh what a surprise my daughter did not pass her test. read more

Eric was my instructor for four lessons. He was on time before each lesson. He was very very experienced, and taught me in a clear and well organized way, and also he listened to my questions, answered my questions patiently. He knew my weakness, and we worked on improving them. I made progress soon after I took four lessons. Highly recommend!!! read more

If there's more 5 stars that I would rate this driving school I would give. Eric was my instructor. He was always on time before our class. What I like about him is that he would explain to me everything the rules and if I have questions he explains to me throughly. Moreover, he was very patient in teaching me. I was totally a beginner because I hadn't have any background about driving. But Eric really did a great job in teaching me. I had 8 lessons with him in residencial and freeway including night driving. He even gave me a driving test before my original behind the wheel test. I know many people couldn't pass during their first behind the wheel and I tell you I thought I couldn't pass too but because of Eric's patience, good ways of teaching and voila, I got my driver's license in my first behind the wheel test ! I strongly recommend this driving school to you who are reading this! read more

Strive Driving School is excellent! Run by knowledgeable professionals. I highly recommend them.

Few months back I found myself cited for not wearing a seat and and being accused of not stopping for the cop for 2 blocks in a residential neighborhood . To cut the story short, I found myself in the horrible situation of being made to take the entire driving test ( written and behind the wheel) or lose my license. This was particularly difficult given I wouldn't be able to drive to work or even take kids to school if I didn't pass in the first go. I'm a guy in my 40's and my last driving test was some 20 years ago. Needless to stay, I prepared diligently and took a couple of driving classes to find out what the driving testers are looking for. I took a lesson with Evan. He was thorough, empathic and a great teacher. He understood my possible needs as my test was more thorough and required going to freeway as well. His tips were invaluable. I passed at 1st go despite high anxiety which was tempered by excellent instructions by Evan. Thank you guys so much! read more

Two years ago, my son passed his driving test on the first try after taking lessons with Strive, and today my daughter did the same! Both kids had Eric Mattson as their instructor- they describe him as "calm and reassuring," and "informative, he explains things really well and gives lots of good tips," and "he's wonderful!" I'll add knowledgeable and thorough to that list. He was always on time, and gave me a report on what they'd done in each lesson and what they needed to practice. I love that the lesson plan included some backcountry driving as we live in the Santa Cruz mountains (winding roads and bicycles!). Booking lessons online was easy, and my calls to the office were returned promptly. Learning to drive and getting a license is a big step for kids (and parents) as they are growing up and gaining independence- I highly recommend Strive Driving School to help you take that step. read more

Great school! my sister passed exam right after the first pre-test class! yahooo!!! thanks!

My teen daughter was due for her first driving class and had trouble booking in peninsula due to recent closures of schools near our area. I was able to quickly sign up course online(I was calling other schools and they did not always get back to me.) I had to get picked up in redwood city, a couple cities north of me, because that allowed me to get class immediately and also have my daughter train near RWC DMV, where her driving test will be. Our first class was two weeks ago and we got Eric. He was amazing. He was extremely knowledgeable, thorough, patient. He knew the latest laws and explained everything carefully to my daughter so she remembered and understood all the rules and laws. I sat in the back seat and listened to the entire class and was thoroughly impressed. My daughter was very happy with her lesson and we are looking forward to future lessons. We highly recommend Eric! He's terrific! read more