BEST DRIVING SCHOOL EVER... HELPED ME TO OVERCOME MY DRIVING ANXIETY... GOT MY LICENCE EASILY. (as a 35+ yo first time driver) Like many people in my age that had never taken their license, I was anxious about driving. In my previous attempts with another driving school just before finding VİVA and years ago with my parents I had near-collision experience so I was scared to death when I first started with Instructor Robert: I was even hesitating to hit the gas beyond 10mph in my first lesson. However, he was such a nice instructor, calm, professional, skillful, safe and supportive and encouraged me so much to overcome my anxiety and get my license easily in my second attempt. He was the real hero behind my success. Besides Instructor Robert, when he wasn't available, I took lessons with Instructor Dean, Dave, Sam and Noha all of them were nice, calm, professional, well-skilled and helped me to better my driving skills. All of my instructors were there on time, we had great communication, and they encouraged me while also respecting my borders and fears. All of the cars that I had driven with Viva were well equipped and fully branded with driving school logo and signs indicating it was a student driver inside. The routes that Viva and Ins. Robert had been choosing, were all wisely structured to teach the student the essentials with increasing challenges step by step: It was the perfect example of curriculum design for a hands on learning process. Last but not least, Daisy from the Viva office showed me she was in my team all the time, always tried her best to adjust the schedules, find me the best instructors, understood my needs as a student and informed me at every step about lesson scheduling, payments, exam scheduling, lesson heads ups, and responded even my silliest questions (I now see that some were really dumb questions) with great patience and with all of her sweetness. THANKS VIVA, Best, Meryem read more

Once I actually spoke to someone there (no one ever answers the phone...it goes to voicemail and the voicemail is always full...I tried for a week to leave a message and had to email them and wait for someone to call me back more than once), we paid for the 10 hour course, plus one extra class for our daughter. Sarah was an easy teacher for my daughter but we noticed there were some issues. We mentioned them to our daughter and she said that things would be fine and Sarah told her she would have no problem passing. She was wrong. The last two lessons were with Lorena. Lorena apparently does. not. stop talking. My daughter said it was EXTREMELY distracting and I experienced it myself on the day of her test and understood what she meant. She apparently felt that my daughter did not have more than a 50/50 chance to pass the test but figured my daughter should go ahead and try if she wanted. We did not find this out until the day of the test! We would have never let her take it if we had known that was the case. And why would Lorena want someone with only a 50/50 chance of passing even be on the road?????? When my daughter failed, Lorena even shook her head and said "Oops, I was afraid of that" !!!! Something should have been said that she was not ready with those kinds of odds and now my daughter has a black mark on her record for failing a driving test. So disappointed after reading good reviews. What a waste of money. But the worst thing is the hit to my daughter's self confidence as a driver...for that alone I would give zero stars if I could. read more

I had a positive experience overall. Context I'm a 30 year old who somehow never learnt to drive. I got my license last Tuesday on my second attempt thanks to Viva. I had taken 5 two-hour lessons, used the first four for learning and the fifth for taking the test. Failed the first time by one point (see the last section). Took another 3 two-hour lessons, used the first two for getting more practice and the third for the test. Cleared it. The good The instructors were kind, knowledgeable, patient and supportive. I had Ted, Dean and Robert. They were all great, especially the last two. I had Dean for the second test and he helped me stay calm. Aside from one particular car, the cars they sent were not too shabby. Scheduling was mostly easy. They would call me a day before to remind me of the class. Everyone felt kind and professional. It was never too hard to reach them on the phone. Finally, being new to the area, it was fantastic that they offered pick-up and drop off. The not-so-great There were occasions when the instructor was slightly late but overall it was mostly ok. For my first test, however, the instructor showed up late because of some scheduling issue and then the car they had sent somehow also malfunctioned--its horn won't work. There was another viva car being used for another test at the DMV so we managed to switch but it was not a very pleasant/calming experience. I don't suppose the school could do much about this but still. They did let me use their third lesson in the 3 lesson pack for the test to make up for it, which was nice. read more

I had heard of Viva Driving School from my friends. I had my first lesson and my instructor (I can't remember his name) was very patient and very friendly. He trusted me like as if I had already had my license, and I admired it. We would practice the same maneuver multiple times until I had it down, and I enjoyed that. My second lesson was with a guy named Ruben. He was a very nice guy and one of the best things that I admired about him was that he would tell me what I would mess up on and be dock on, as if I was taking the test. This really helped me pursue to get the specific maneuver to be perfect. I would encourage all instructors to give a "practice test" on any session. My last lesson was with Glen. He was a great instructor and he gave me confidence going into the test. He would always praise me on my turns and land shifts. I also admired how he praised me on my judgement and my defensive driving. He gave me confidence going into the test and I enjoyed that aspect about him. Overall, Viva Driving School has amazing instructors who are willing to work with students and have the patience for it. They like to have conversations with the drivers about any subject. I would strongly urge people to take this program if they love near Pasadena. read more

I passed my driving test today!!! Thanks Viva! If you are thinking of getting your driving lesson, this is the right place to do it and I recommend the best Instructor George. The ladies at the front that set up my driving lessons schedule were very friendly, Lizbeth and Paula thank you! I had two different driving instructor, first day was instructor Bert, he was okay. Second day was instructor George, what a huge difference the way they teach and explain things, George is way better and he was always on time to pick me up and very good at explaining everything so I requested him to be my driving instructor for the rest of my remaining lessons. Instructor George, thank you so much for teaching me how to drive the right way, sharing good information about driving, for all the great advice for me to pass my driving test and especially for being soooo patient! You are the best instructor! I would recommend instructor George to anyone who would enroll for a driving lesson with Viva. Trust me, your time and money will be worth it with instructor George. Just listen and pay attention to everything that he's going to teach you and you will pass your driving test! Thanks so much Viva Driving School! read more

Passed my test first time, thanks to David R at Viva driving school!! I would highly recommend Viva to anyone looking to pass their test first time. Not only is this a great school for first time drivers with no experience, but it is also the best option for those with experience who want to improve their driving for when they take the test. I went from my first time sitting in the drivers seat, to passing my test and earning my drivers license, in only 5 classes! My instructor was David R, who was the best teacher that I could've hoped for. He was very knowledgeable and kind, helping me to focus on the road, and not on my anxiety. It was only through his teaching that I was able to pass my test first time. I could tell that David cared about teaching me to drive, and was honest to tell me when he thought I was ready to pass the test (whereas many other driving instructors try to convince you that you're not ready in order to make you buy more lessons). Note to Parents: if you are a parent that wants to make sure their teen learns to become a safe driver, then I would truly recommend making an appointment at Viva and asking for David R. Thank you again for the classes! read more

Passed my test first time thanks to David R at Viva driving school!! I would highly recommend Viva to anyone looking to pass their test first time. Not only is this a great school for first time drivers with no experience, but it is also the best option for those with experience who want to improve their driving for when they take the test. I went from my first time sitting in the drivers seat, to passing my test and earning my drivers license, in only 5 classes! My instructor was David R, who was the best teacher that I could've hoped for. He was very knowledgeable and kind, helping me to focus on the road, and not on my anxiety. It was only through his teaching that I was able to pass my test first time. I could tell that David cared about teaching me to drive, and was honest to tell me when he thought I was ready to pass the test (whereas many other driving instructors try to convince you that you're not ready in order to make you buy more lessons). Note to Parents: if you are a parent that wants to make sure their teen learns to become a safe driver, then I would truly recommend making an appointment at Viva and asking for David R. Thank you again for the classes! read more

I moved to LA in my thirties and finally had to get my driver's license. I was still an anxious driver after practicing with friends & family for a few months with my permit, so the prospect of taking my DMV road test had me pretty nervous and I decided to get professional help. I called around to a few other driving schools and they either didn't have availability or didn't really know what to do with an adult learner. Viva was pretty easy to schedule with and was respectful of my situation. I ended up taking three lessons with Sam and he really helped me out, both with general driving advice and with what to look out for on the practical test. I ended up passing the DMV road test on the first try with very positive feedback from the examiner, and a few months later I'm pretty comfortable driving anywhere (including aggressive LA traffic, some long trips on the freeway, and a week-long trip thru Mexico.) I can't recommend Sam enough -- he's calm and personable but will tell you straightforwardly what you're doing wrong. If you pay attention to his advice I think you're pretty much guaranteed to pass at the DMV. Also he's just a good guy. read more

Given the challenges of the pandemic and what seemed as the great influx of people, like myself, who were eager to take driving lessons after waiting for over a year, Viva did an exceptional job of accommodating my schedule and making lesson times available to me. Yes, the scheduling was challenging at moments, but they did their best to return my calls and always reminded me the night before of upcoming lessons. From the beginning, I was fortunate enough to be paired up with David (Dave) Reyes as my instructor. I can't state how much his kindness, patience, encouragement, and humor were instrumental to taking me from a novice driver (at the age of 50 no less!) to someone who is more comfortable and confident behind the wheel. So successful were the lessons I took with Dave (over the course of 4 months), that I passed my behind the wheel exam on the first try! Indeed, you couldn't have a better instructor in your corner than Dave. So run, don't walk to Viva, and sign up with him. You won't regret it. read more

I had an outstanding experience with Viva Driving School! From start to finish, the team was professional, friendly, and genuinely invested in helping me succeed. My instructor, Dave, was incredibly patient and knowledgeable, always taking the time to explain things clearly and making sure I felt confident behind the wheel. Each lesson was structured, well-paced, and tailored to my needs, which made the learning process smooth and stress-free. The booking process was simple and flexible, and communication was always prompt and helpful. Viva Driving School truly goes above and beyond--not just to prepare you for the test, but to make you a safe, responsible driver for life. Thanks to their support, I passed my driving test on the first try! I can't recommend them enough to anyone looking to learn how to drive with confidence. read more

I was calling around several driving schools to see who could help my boyfriend to build his confidence in his driving (btw he's 23 and still doesn't have his license.) This school was very professional on the phone and informed me on things that I would have never thought to question. They are a bit pricy, but it was totally worth it. We signed him up for the 6 hours behind the wheel training and using 2hours for them to borrow his car for his test. From what I learned, this is a very popular choice for Adult students. He has only had one session. I was compelled to write this review to let you all know that he was very happy with his lesson and I was appreciative of their sincerity, professionalism and timeliness. Thank you Viva! We are looking forward to the remaining time that we have with you. read more

I cannot recommend Viva Driving School enough! I have always had a fear of driving and I was so nervous to take lessons as a 30-year-old starting from the beginning. Ted the driving instructor was incredibly patient and offered clear, detailed instructions that really helped me to build my confidence. He always arrived on time and he was attentive and encouraging throughout. It was also super easy to schedule lessons; Daisy at the front desk was such a delight and always there to help out if I needed to reschedule anything. The school has a fleet of well-maintained and clearly signposted student driver cars with two sets of pedals which made me feel a lot safer. It was such a positive experience overall and I have already recommended Ted and Viva to all my friends who are seeking lessons. read more

Not the best but not the worst. They taught me most of what I needed to know, though compared to what others I know learned from different driving schools, I definitely feel like this one was lacking. My instructor was David. He looked at his phone during most of our lesson. His instructions resulted in the bare minimum. He taught me how to do a 3-point turn only once. He barely taught me how to park once. We only ever worked on reversing for 3 minutes during one lesson. Other people have told me that their instructors have taken them on the freeway for the last hour of their last lesson. This wasn't even mentioned once during my lessons. I learned at least the basics but I wouldn't recommend this school to others. There are cheaper alternatives that'll teach you the same stuff. read more

We signed up for Viva Driving School due to our friends recommendations, We were going to go with a driving school in Los Angeles which was cheaper than Viva but after talking to many family friends who attended Viva, they all said the same thing - you MUST get Matt as your instructor. He is genuine and fun but most importantly he teaches your child how to drive safety. My daughter had never driven before and was reluctant to drive. I tried taking her out before her first lesson and she wasn't having it. After her first lesson with Matt she was ready for anything. I can see why Matt gets so many reviews because he clearly knows what he is doing. Thank you Viva! I will recommend your services to friends and family. read more

I had an amazing experience with Viva Driving School, especially with my instructor Sam. I had already taken my driving test twice before and wasn't able to pass, which was really discouraging. On my third attempt, I decided to go with Sam, and it made all the difference. He was patient, calm, and explained everything in a way that actually made sense. He helped me feel more confident behind the wheel and focused on the areas I needed to improve without making me feel nervous or judged. Thanks to his guidance and support, I finally passed my driving test! I highly recommend Sam to anyone who's struggling or just wants a great instructor. He truly cares about his students and wants to see them succeed. read more

I want to say a huge thank-you to the staff at Viva Driving school at Pasadena. They are very helpful and respectful. For my behind the wheel teachers, I got 2 amazing instructors. Bert and Matt. Bert is a such an amazing instructor, he is very patient and is not hesitant to correct on your mistake. If you are looking for someone who is willing to give you really good tips. I would definitely book for Bert. I will warn you though, he is booked very very quick. Another instructor I would like to thank is Matt, I had him only once but when I first met him, he was easy going, professional and fun to be with. He is also a high demand for instructor as well. read more

I was hesitant to book with another driving school as the previous driving school I spent money on was a total waste! BUT this school got it right. Veronica is the BEST! She is really patient, I kept making the same mistakes and not once did she ever lose her cool. She gives great tips on what to expect and really has an impact on how you should be driving well and safe. I didn't pass my test because my DMV instructor made a horrible move and blamed me for it (that's another story.) But I am definitely booking again with Veronica to pass the test once in for all. If you want to really learn and get your money's worth, this is the place! read more

THANK YOU VIVA AND MATT !!! My son passed his driving test today!!!.and I wanted to thank VIVA and Matt for the training. My son had never driven before and I was very nervous taking him out on the road, but after my son had Matt as his instructor, I felt more comfortable. Matt settled my nerves and made sure my son understood what is an acceptable form of driving. Matt taught him all of the tips and tricks that he needed in order to pass, but more importantly, how to become a safe driver. I think if my son can pass the driving test then anyone can. WE WILL DEFINITELY RECOMMEND VIVA DRIVING SCHOOL TO ALL OF OUR FRIENDS. read more