I booked a driving test with them which is a one hour driving lesson before the scheduled driving test in DMV when you drive and instructor corrects your mistakes. I passed the DMV test. The instructor, Alex was very experienced, super nice guy, down to earth whom I enjoyed his company a tremendously. The prices is reasonable and the driver was on time. Overall, great experience, highly recommend the school and specially the instructor, Alex. read more

We are happy with our experience with Forward driving school. Owner Andre was very accommodating and he assigned the instructor to us that we were asking for, based on reviews. Instructor Ella is very professional, on-point, no small talk, helpful. My son was very satisfied with her guidance. She was always on time and always made herself available to us when we needed. read more

Had an amazing experience with forward driving school. Scheduling was very easy. I got Amando as my instructor for the first session and picked him for rest of my sessions. He was one of the most patient guys I've seen. Gives clear instructions and feedback. I went from no driving experience at all to driving on freeways within 3 weeks. Only took 4 sessions and 1 extra for my BTW driving test. Passed my driving test in the first attempt. Greatful for the experience!! read more

I had an amazing experience at Forward Driving school. Thanks to Andre for being polite and professional throughout. I had a great experience learning from Eric. He is very professional and a very calm person. He was extremely patient and gave clear instructions and gave helpful advice always. My driving got more better n confident learning from him. I just got my DL today. Couldn't recommend them enough. They are hassle free, accommodative and very reasonable in their prices. Don't hesitate to contact them for taking driving lessons. I took class from 3 of their instructors and I highly recommend Eric as hands down he is the best. read more

First of all scheduling the 2nd and especially the 3rd driving lesson was ridiculous. Each time they asked if my son was available in the morning? Knowing full well he is a high school student. I started scheduling his final appt on Jan 3 to occur before his Jan 26th test. Barely squeezed him in on the 24th after I messaged 5x to schedule, making him miss a practice because I had no choice but to go with their last minute suggestion. Secondly, the instructor never took my son on the freeway, or practiced backing up, and did not ever mention once looking over your shoulder on a right turn. Never went over any of these things, so of course he failed his test. Barely taught him anything my husband hadn't already and never went over these important items. Cars are a joke too! Not professional at all. read more

I took my son to complete his six hours of drivers training to prepare for his drivers license. The sign-up process was very easy and everyone was very helpful. I scheduled his driving test and there was not any availability to complete his last session for the test so the owner of the school made it a point to ensure to refer me to someone else that can possibly help. He also issued a refund for our final session and gave us a letter immediately saying that four hours of driving was already completed. Thank you for going the extra mile to ensure that we were taken care of. read more

I wanted to send a big 'thank you' to Andre, the owner of Forward Driving School, for reaching back out to us this morning. After shedding light on the situation, Andre was very understanding and apologized on behalf of the instructor and the school for the lesson rendered. He also explained that the control over instructors wearing masks can't be reinforced because they run their own lesson. Despite this, he was deeply apologetic for any discomfort caused by Ella. He also addressed all concerns regarding behavior and was very receptive toward feedback and a direct customer/owner communication. Andre was very kind, professional, and was ready to listen to feedback about the experience I had with Ella. The conversation was constructive, respectful, and positively conclusive. We ended up receiving a refund for the experience, and more importantly - were able to talk one on one about the experience with him directly to prevent any further rides like mine. Andre's school seems to have some amazing instructors, aside from my isolated experience with Ella, and with his head on approach, I trust that they will continue to serve the Bay Area with integrity, kindness, and patience. Thank you again for reaching back to us Andre, I'm glad we got to have a positive experience with someone from Forward Driving School (even if under these circumstances). read more

My son did not have "special needs." I'm not sure what you're referring to or insinuating. Alex was rude and unprofessional, plain and simple. read more

Had them booked for behind the wheel test for my wife. A young man named Eric showed up. He seems to had no experience at all and didn't manage to give her any useful advice. They just drove for 10 mins before the exam, Although they had plenty of time before the appointment. The car was a honda fit, old and rusty. I had much better experience with other schools where the instructor were much experienced, to the point and helped me alot. read more

I was referring business to this school but stay away! They will quote one price and change the next day. When their rep said we needed a manager to honor a previous quote, we called the manager and let him know it was regarding the price change. His cold, arrogant response was, "And...?! Then said he didn't know why we were calling him and that he could change the price anytime he wanted and he didn't need our business before hanging up.. If this is how they handle a quote, how bad would they be over a more complicated issue? I wouldn't let my kids or new drivers near someone who is impatient and talks down to people. read more

No show two appointments in a row. No notice of cancellation, lame excuse hours after the appointment hour. Disappointed.

Just had my first session with Nick. Couldn't have made a better choice depending upon the reviews here. He was patient (exactly what a nervous driver needs) and covered a lot of basics and advanced points. I am usually nervous when I am behind the wheels but this was the calmest I've ever been. He pointed out mistakes (in the most constructive way) and then we practiced the same situation 5 times until I was comfortable with it. I mentioned what scenarios worry me the most when I drive and Nick made sure we practice the tips and tricks to be smooth and safe in those situation. The 2 hour session didn't just cover the driving test basics but also 'how to drive outside of test circumstances and be safe on road'! Booking session 2 shortly! read more

*Passed on my first try @ San Jose DMV Previous to Forward Driving School: I had a week of practice with the Cupertino Driving School which was very nerve-racking as my instructor put me on the highway on my first day and didn't explain most of the rules on the road. He was just like, drive. With Forward Driving School: I had a week of practice (daily) so total of 2 weeks of driving in my life before the road test. Kathryn/Katlyin (I forgot her name): She was a really great instructor. From the first day, she was very thorough with the teaching. During each class, she constantly asked me questions about driving and the car. She also gave me a lot of tips and things to look out for on the test. We drove to San Jose every class. She has a really calm voice and whenever I would mess up or freak out, she would calm me down instantly and knew what she was doing. read more

It was absolutely new experience to me - to have this behind-the-wheel test in a new country. Ella was so much helpful and she really spent more than an hour prior to the test for a road driving. She showed me the most common mistakes and the most critical points on the future route. Yes, I was nervous but felt more confidence after this practice with Ella. I am sure she helped me a lot. The price is also nice although the car could be better. But the price / value combination seems to be the best in the whole Bay Area. I was able to pass my exam from the very first try at the end! read more

My first driving lesson was with an instructor named Luke. He was slightly awkward and was silent for most of the lesson after learning the ropes of the car. After another lesson with a different instructor, I had my third lesson with Luke and there was no more than 10 words said by him. We drove around the San Jose Area for nearly two hours with almost no instruction. He would just physically correct the wheel whenever I made a mistake instead of verbally explaining. Overall, the driving school experience was solid but Luke made it very awkward. read more

I have scheduled for 3 lessons of two hours each. After first lesson I requested for each lesson for one hour for which they wanted extra money. Agreed for that . But in between they stopped and blocked my phone no. Looks like unprofessional. I do not recommend to any one. read more

We have booked two appointments with this driving school and they have not shown nor call to reschedule or cancel. The first time my son was scheduled was back in April, with shelter in place I understand why they didn't show up, but they never called. Once things started to reopen I called and they gave me 3 options for yesterday 4th of July. I mention that it was a holiday and asked if they would be working and they said yes. Well, again they did not show up. It is time to find another driving school, so disappointed with the lack of communication. I understand things are crazy, but a phone call or text will make a big difference to their business. read more

I took 4 two hour lessons with Nick, Alex, and Vitti. On top of being on time, all of them were great and knowledgeable instructors. I haven't driven a car before but Nick helped me build my confidence and I was able to hit the local streets right after we practice in a parking lot. He taught me the major things I needed to know to pass my driving test in just 2 hour time frame. Alex on the other hand was a very blunt instructor. He will point out every mistake you make and would sometimes say "You'll fail if you do that". I'm not going to lie it lowers my self-esteem every time he says that, but then again I'll know what to work on. He went with me to my driving test and I passed the first go. We did a little warm up around the DMV area before my test to get me comfortable and less nervous. I definitely learned a lot from Alex. He's an experienced and professional driver. I also did two lessons with Vitti and she helped me so much with my turns and backing. She made sure I drive safely and follow the road signs correctly. Overall, I had an amazing experience with Forward Driving School. I would definitely recommend this school for beginners. Their price is pretty reasonable. I paid $100 for every 2 hour lesson and I used their car for my DMV drive test for $120. They are also very responsive when you call them and they send out reminders before your lessons. read more

This school is highly professional, after doing lot of research I decided to go with this school , I took 3 classes from here , 1 with Nick -awesome instructor with lot of patience , he helped me with turns and parking 2 classes with Nancy - she is also a good instructor, I told her I have issues in changing Lane and parking and she helped me with that Even the lady who picks the call -Sulekha was good in responding I am able to pass the test in 1st attempt,I will highly recommend this school read more

First of all, I have given an extra .5 start because even though these people do not provide service/classes in Milpitas, they accommodated my request. They have an excellent person as their customer representative. I had requested for having Nick as my instructor going by the other Yelp reviews. Nick is an excellent instructor, very patient and encouraging. "You are doing good, you are doing very well, you are gonna pass" He kept saying this and it really boosted my confidence. This was my second attempt in the behind the wheel test and I passed it :) I got the worst instructor during my test at San Jose DMV, but I passed :) read more

NICK, NICK, NICK! Forward Driving School is the best driving school in the Bay Area! When scheduling an appointment make SURE you ask for Nick as he is awesome and makes you feel very comfortable behind the wheel! Taking the test was a breeze after having a few lessons with Nick! I even got a "good job" in the comments section after it was done! read more

Alex is a wonderful instructor. A lot of patience, the right instructions and tips. He explains as many times as needed. Very very useful. He is very nice too. Thanks to his advices and tricks I was able to pass the test behind the wheel. Totally recommended. read more

I took 3 classes with FDS again and I am shocked and appalled by the people who they choose to be instructors. Twice, I had an instructor make disparaging remarks about "black people" and the BLM movement. I'm a south Asian woman so I guess they thought since I wasn't black they could open up and tell me this shit? The first instructor, I forget his name, was initially very nice, but at one point stated that black people don't like non blacks and shouldn't complain about the rate of COVID in their community as it's "their fault". Had a full argument with one instructor, Alex, as he tried to tell me that George Floyd's death was what he gets for "resisting arrest" and he even said that white people need to defend themselves against black people because the black lives matter movement means that black people will attack anyone who isn't black. Honestly incredibly disgusted and disappointed with FDS as I really thought they were a good driving school initially but cannot in good faith recommend them as they are hiring openly and unabashedly racist drivers. PLEASE if you are a person of color, or just in general, a person against racism DO NOT attend this driving school. read more

Hi there, My son Just finished his 3rd 2-hour session with Nick, and we couldn't be more pleased. Nick is a really nice guy who gives great direction and encouragement for the driver. I wasn't in the car, but when I talked to my son about how everyting went, he was everything I expect in a driving teacher. Thanks Nick! read more

This school is very professional and easy enough to call them and get your driving classes booked. The driving teacher will text/call you on the day of the class and pick you up on time. I was lucky and fortunate to have Nick as my driving teacher and I took 3 classes and he was very professional and an awesome teacher. He always kept saying the things to follow and sharing all the driving experiences he had. He used to mention the scenarios and how to react to the situations. He is full of valuable information and a nice gentleman to talk to ! He even took me to steep/hilly roads and taught me how to stop and move the car at those points. He never made me to feel nervous and kept encouraging me with the good things I do and corrected my mistakes in a cool way ! And with the confidence he gave me, I cleared my behind the wheel in first attempt ! Thanks much Nick !! I heard that all the teachers from this school are very nice but I would definitely recommend this school and Nick especially !! He is an awesome teacher !! read more

Great company. They have been so great to to work with to schedule appointments. The instructors really know what they are doing!! 5++ stars

Amar is great! My very first lesson, I went to a different driving school, but they did not teach me anything, so I decided to switch to Forward Driving School. Best decision ever! After two classes with Amar, I already feel confident driving and am planning on taking my driving test within about a month to two months after receiving my permit (I'm already 18) Amar is a great teacher-- he knows what the DMV expects and has lots of great tips. He's also super friendly and will keep encouraging you while correcting your mistakes. He'll target your weaknesses and get you to keep practicing them until you get it down. Highly recommend him and this school!!! read more

Nick is a great driving instructor! My daughter would get anxiety attacks while practicing her driving skills with me but not with Nick with his calm & collective personality. He really works well with my teenager. He makes sure that your kid is informed & prepared before that gear is shifted to the Drive mode. I highly recommend him for all those first-time, nervous teenagers learning to drive. read more

I took a driving lesson with an instructor named Long. It was really easy to make an appointment on the phone and the instructor showed up on time and even called me before he left. I had good feelings about this school. He taught me some rules for safe driving before we hit the road. I have driver's license but I haven't drove for two years. The main reason I wanted to do driving lesson was to gain confidence. I explained to him and Long started to warming up and teaching me from the basic to the advanced level of driving. He is really good at teaching and I feel more confident after two hours of lesson. I would recommend him for people who want to learn how to drive safely. It's definitely worth it! Thank you. read more

Alex is a best instructor!!! I took 3 lesson with him and 2 with another instructors. I really like his way of learning. He is very attentive to details, kind, cheerful and always answered my questions. He sincerely believed that I could pass the exam. And before the exam, he supported me very well. Thank you so much! read more

My experience with Forward Driving School has been nothing but pleasant. After the required 3 lessons, I took my behind-the-wheel driving test at the Santa Clara DMV this morning, and passed on my first try! Scheduling appointments: the receptionist was extremely polite and helpful, and would also send lesson reminders via text a couple days beforehand. Car: You use their car for lessons, which was fine with me. There is a brake on the passenger side, which the instructor can use in case of emergencies, and even just to help you along as you just start out. It was completely safe, and Nick helped with learning all the different controls (mirrors, defogger, hazard lights, etc.) Instructor: Upon the recommendation of a friend, I requested Nick, who was the best instructor I could've had. From the beginning, he was calm and relaxed, which helped me feel the same. He takes the time to guide you step by step, always emphasizing safety, and never rushes or gets mad at you (something not guaranteed driving with a parent!). Throughout the course of the required three lessons for my underage license, he helped me develop good habits of staying aware of the surrounding environment. He also teaches you helpful tricks for tricky maneuvers like reserving into a parking spot and parallel parking! I would highly recommend him to anyone just starting out driving. read more

I booked a 2hr driving lesson+ DMV test on school's vehicle sessions with Forward Driving School 1 week prior. The lady behind the phone was very responsive and replied to my texts pretty fast, also called to confirm my booking 1 day before the class. My instructor Nick arrived perfectly on time both days, at 10am and 6:15am (my DMV appointment was at 7:15am). Nick was very calm and patient with instructing me, he gave me tips on where to improve, and definitely boosted my confidence on the road. Note: This was my 3rd time taking the behind-the-wheel test. We arrived at Santa Clara DMV at 7am, and to my surprise, the owner Andre was already waiting in line, so we could get a quick headstart. Needless to say, I passed the test, so no complaints here. :) read more

I found them to be very professional school. Every appointment was scheduled in under a minute. Even a rescheduling was not an issue with them. I took three classes with Amar. He is a fantastic instructor, very passionate about teaching driving and has a huge experience. He has been a commercial driver before. He makes sure that you will know everything that dmv checks on the test. I passed my driving test on the first attempt thanks to Amar! read more

Just had my first driving lesson, and I am glad I went with Forward Driving School! The instructor was very nice and patient, and they helped me a lot with driving. Can't wait for my next lesson! read more

I am happy that I've chosen this school, instructors are very nice and flexible. Work with you whatever is comfortable for you. And compared to other schools, this one is the cheapest, with the equal quality as expensive schools. I strongly recommend!! read more

My daughter recently took her driving lessons with Forward Driving School. The office staff was great to work with and the instructors helped her easily pass her behind-the -wheel driving test on the first try. Very patient and they helped build my daughters confidence in her driving skills. Highly recommend! read more

*Clarification* 5-STARS FOR NICK : Great instructor! :) 1-STAR FOR ALEX : Really rude and condescending instructor :( I had 2 two-hour lessons with Nick, I felt very comfortable learning with him and definitely gained confidence after two sessions. He even gave great recommendations for the test. Now, I rescheduled my 3rd lesson when my plans changed and rescheduling wasn't a problem, what comes next was. On the day of my 3rd lesson, I get a call from an instructor who was not Nick but "Alex". I asked why it wasn't Nick and he said he doesn't know, he was simply scheduled for this lesson but if I preferred Nick, I could reschedule. But since Alex was already outside my place I decided to just go with it but man was that a bad decision. We started off by backing out of the driveway and right off the bat he yells, "No! That's wrong." and I'm just like why is this man yelling.... So once that was all sorted out we drive, drive, drive and then he asked where am I taking the test and I say *location* and he gives off this condescending chuckle and proceeds to say "Psh wow so far, why not here.." and I say because its out of the city and he says "Okay if you want to go that far.." At this point its only been 10 minutes and i'm already very put off by his attitude. Anyways throughout the whole 2 hours I was constantly yelled at, "No! Wrong. No. No. Wrong! No! No. No this, No that" I definitely lost confidence in driving when personally I felt I was doing fine. It was really hard to concentrate when someone is constantly putting you down. I also noticed every stoplight he would be breaking for me! I was perfectly fine breaking on my own but I would see his foot and actually feel the break breaking for me. He asked me if I wanted to drive the freeway since its my 3rd lesson but I honestly didn't feel comfortable with him so I said No, and he replied, "Tsk thats a bad answer." Ugh his overall attitude was not meant to be for instructing. Lastly when he was teaching me the driving test scorecard, he would point to every line and put it right in front of my face and read it out loud like i wasn't right next to him -_- and while driving, if I made a mistake he would pull out the scorecard, put it in front of my face and say "No wrong, see this line *proceeds to read line*, you will fail" Overall my experience with Nick was great but I was so put off by Alex. If only I could ask for a refund I would. read more

NICK IS SO BLESSED. I found out this school on yelp and I booked and appointment like at the very last moment (Literally a day before my test) I had one lesson with Nick. Man....He is the best teacher you could wish for. I believe if you're having a bad day also, go to him haha. He's Awesome, Skills are 100/100, he points out critics in a positive way. And on the day Of the Test, Boss came to pick me up. He is so nice, really helpful, hella funny hahaha! He didn't make me feel nervous on the day of the test. Definitely Recommend. I just had one lesson and a Test Day. I Passed. read more

One of the instructors contacted me apologizing for the rude experience stating that the owner is very busy and that the instructors are easy to communicate. I wouldn't doubt that the instructors are decent people. However, my suggestion though? Work for somebody else. read more

I am writing this on behalf of someone who had Alex as an instructor. He yelled constantly and criticized said person during the first driving lesson, resulting in lowered confidence driving. I don't think anyone should be treated this way, especially when it's their first time driving. I would not recommend this driving school. read more