Viva Driving School

(155 reviews)

4.1 mi

After failing my driving test five times at the Pasadena DMV, I was honestly hoping for a miracle…read more-- and I found it with Yolanda Driving School. The process of scheduling my appointment was smooth and very well organized, and everyone I interacted with was kind and professional. I would especially like to recognize my instructor, Luis. He is incredibly patient and does an excellent job clearly pointing out mistakes while providing helpful guidance on how to improve. He made sure I practiced until I felt truly confident behind the wheel. I'm very grateful for his support and couldn't have chosen a better driving school

A big thank you to Victor! He really helped me feel confident while driving, he was very…read moreencouraging and always kept a positive attitude! With his help, I passed my driving test (:

First Driving Lesson!

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S Pass Driving School

(178 reviews)

4.3 mi

I have passed my test in the first try and it's all because of Angie.She is a great teacher and she…read moretaught me with utmost patience and even before the test,she made sure I was calm and couldn't have done it without Angie.She is the best in town and i highly recommended S pass driving school , their prices are great and they operate with utmost honesty and integrity..I am super grateful to Angie and love her positivity and enthusiasm.

Forgot to update, but since driving with Angie, I am much more comfortable driving. Still work in…read moreprogress, but Angie has supported me through driving. I'm able to drive on my own now and get to do my every day errands. She made conversation easy and gave me tips about how to improve without making me feel more anxious. She was a calm and kind instructor and was always on time. She gave me opportunities to choose where I wanted to go and explore. I'm grateful for Angie and hopeful that I'll continue strong in driving. Hoping to book one more lesson with Angie for freeways since I'm still working on that but thank you so much for S Pass Driving school!

Thank you Angie. I passed on the 1st try. Great 16th birthday gift!

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Car getting new tires

1 Driving School

3.7

(19 reviews)

0.4 mi

I rarely leave one-star reviews, especially for businesses we've used before with success…read more Unfortunately, this experience was completely different -- and deeply disappointing. Several years ago, we used this driving school for my eldest daughter. Her instructor, Mike, was excellent: patient, professional, and well-organized. Based on that positive experience, we signed up again on December 27th for my middle daughter and specifically requested Mike. We were told this would not be a problem as long as we were willing to wait a few weeks. What followed was over a month of disorganization, poor communication, and ultimately disrespectful treatment by a staff member named Dave, who insisted on handling everything exclusively via text message. We were never provided a calendar or scheduling system. Instead, we were asked to manually text availability months in advance, which we did -- repeatedly. Despite multiple follow-ups, Dave kept saying he would "get back to us" to schedule Mike, but never did. After weeks of trying to lock down a date, I finally called him directly. That call was shocking. Dave was abrasive, dismissive, and offered no solutions. He abruptly informed me that there were now no available dates until mid-March -- more than two months out from the call, and nearly three months from the date we paid. He refused to escalate the issue or let me speak with anyone else, and made no effort to offer alternatives. After this experience, I went back and read the recent reviews -- something I regret not doing sooner. There is a clear pattern in the last few years of complaints about scheduling failures, lack of follow-through, and poor communication. Earlier reviews (2018-2021) paint a very different picture, largely praising instructors like Mike. Something has clearly changed. We did eventually receive a refund, but that doesn't undo the real cost: we lost over a month of time and delayed our daughter's ability to get on the road and practice. My advice: do not rely on past reputation alone. Read the most recent reviews carefully before booking. Based on our experience, this business is no longer operating at the level it once did.

I am very disappointed with these ppl. The driving school was recommended to us by the regional…read morecenter. Given that my daughter is on the spectrum I took this recommendation from our case worker seriously and immediately tried to schedule. They texted with me back and forth for weeks / months saying that they have new scheduling system and saying they are super busy, etc, etc. I could never get them on the phone...completely unprofessional and wasted our time and now daughters permit is going to expire soon and she never got lessons. They took money and ran and never gave us 1 lesson. They outta be ashamed of themselves taking advantage of ppl with children with disabilities. I don't leave bad reviews but this one takes the cake. They are definitely running a take the money and run scam and I will report them and follow up with legal action possibly. If there is anyone else who has been scammed by these ppl please reach out we can come together to shut these guys down

"With 1 Driving School I was able to pass my driving test the first try." Z.Y. - Pasadena

"They sent me the best driving tutor. I've passed my test and I've got my California Driving License. Thank You very much 1 Driving School."

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Student 1st Driving School

Offers customized solutions

(69 reviews)

7.9 mi

Certified professionals

From start to finish, Students First was a great and positive experience for my daughter and I…read more This was a huge relief after having started with a different driving school and having a negative experience that then required having to request a refund. I appreciate many things about this school, but especially the reliability, clear communication, prompt responses to texts and calls, very knowledgeable and professional driving instructor Mr. Oscar, and that they pick up from home. I'm also very happy to report that my daughter passed her BTW test on her first try. Thank you very much Students First team!

My son had was having a hard time passing his driving test and by the time I reached out, he was…read morealready trying to pass for the 4th time. We signed him up for DMV Test Prep and his driving instructor, Oscar, gave him the confidence that he much needed to pass. We are so grateful for this company and will definitely use them for my second son. Thank you Philip and Oscar!

Ready to drive? We can help

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Safety 1st

ADVAN Driving School

(103 reviews)

4.4 mi

rating in the car bc derek told me to right after i passed the FIRST TIME…read more at first i was nervous, but then he turned out to be rly chill and talkative. he talked a lot about collecting cards and other stuff that made me miss turns, lol. but overall, this guy helped me improve a lot in my driving skills and was straightforward to the point where i passed. i would 100% recommend! 10/10

I'm an adult driver, my first time being on the road was in my mid 20s. From starting out nervous,…read moreinsecure, and overwhelmed on the road, I passed my driving test with a flawless 0 errors with the help of Derek! I couldn't practice at home and I wanted to sharpen up my skills as much as possible, so I bought two intermediate packages (36 hours). The sign up and payment process with Carly is easy! I just gave a call, was texted dates and times of my appointments, and the driving instructor would arrive. Derek is straightforward! If there's room for improvement or you make an error, he'll tell it as it is. He'll try to understand your thought process of why you made the error, and then give clear instructions on the proper approach and what to do next time. This really helped me improve and grow after each lesson! If you're an adult driver that is anxious about the road and self-conscious of their own skills, I highly recommend ADVAN Driving School!

He asked for a filter

High school happy

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Pasadena Driving School-the Best

3.8

(25 reviews)

2.3 mi

After speaking to him over the phone last Wednesday, Mr. Silva said he can go ahead and squeeze my…read moreson in Tuesday (today) and Thursday 7am. I told him we could not do it Tuesday but he continued on to say he had nothing else available. I asked if other instructors had different availability and he went on to say that's the best he can do because I was booking short notice and "everything is booked for months". We accepted, moved work/personal schedules around to be available for this and cut my son's trip short by two days so he can be well rested for this morning's lesson. Less than an hour before first lesson Mr . Silva canceled. Again I asked if he was the only instructor we can book with he quickly said he can refund our money. My guess is this "school" is one man and his car...? Anyway, I guess it's not a problem for a family with an open schedule but beware, he is pushy and seems somewhat aggressive. Very unprofessional.

Just passed my behind the wheel test thanks to Ricardo. He makes you feel confident and relaxed…read moreduring the lessons, and I looked forward to our driving lessons! Highly recommend this driving school!

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T J Driving School

(10 reviews)

3.6 mi

Funny and interesting instructor. Used our time well. Would go there again if I need to.read more

This class was great. The instructor, Mr. Lee, made the time fly by! He was very funny and had a…read moregood personality. Come here if you have to do traffic school!

Zoan Driving School

4.4

(114 reviews)

5.1 mi

Zoan Driving School is not only for beginners to driving but also traffic school just in case we so…read morehappens to get a ticket violation on the road., traffic school is an option to avoid - from our DMV record so insurance wouldn't double in price.

Great driving school at a reasonable price that covers lessons, scheduling the driving test, pick…read moreup/ drop off from driving test, and using the car for the driving test. Instructors have been reliable and helpful. Overall, highly recommended!

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Grace’s Driving School

(9 reviews)

16.5 mi

Certified professionals

Speaks Spanish

My son was very comfortable with Manny, who took him through the whole range of skills during his…read morelessons package. They drove at dusk, at night, in rain, on the freeway. It built my son's confidence and relieved us parents from taking him through those experiences for the first time. Great investment in safety and peace of mind all the way around!

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - GRACE DRIVING SCHOOL…read more I am truly grateful for my experience with Grace Driving School. From the moment I learned they were family-owned and had female driving instructors, I already felt confident I was making the right choice. The moment I read all the wonderful reviews--especially about how fantastic they are with younger drivers--I made an immediate decision to go with them. I didn't even bother looking for alternatives, and I'm so glad I didn't. What I loved most is their simplified, non-overwhelming teaching techniques. They know exactly how to meet you where you are. Mariam- the adopted Leo in particular, is incredibly systematic and intuitive. She adjusts the learning style based on what works best for you. I'm a visual learner, and she would literally draw things out so I could clearly understand the concepts. That meant so much to me. And Manuel, The Zen Master -- hands down the most patient man I've ever encountered... and that's with me driving! His calm demeanor, steady guidance, and genuine care make you feel safe, supported, and capable. They set you up for success, step by step. I am truly honored to have been one of their students. The experience was absolutely worth it, and I can't recommend them enough. Humbled to be their student. If you're looking for driving lessons, don't think twice--enroll with Grace Driving School. You will be in the best hands.

Amazing score congrats!!

Congrats to both!!

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Yay!!

Frostig School

4.3

(21 reviews)

1.0 mi

This is a school that caters to special needs students. I've seen how the teachers interact with…read moreeach student, they are caring and give all of their time and attention to each! I appreciate all of the programs and how they work to fulfill each students individual needs for success! Parking can be tricky around pickup, arrive early to grab a spot!

We enrolled our daughter based on the wonderful experience our good friends had with their sons…read morelearning differences. What transpired there with my daughter has essentially ruined her life. My daughter has learning differences , not on the spectrum. We had complained about a boy who my daughter said was obsessed with her. We requested for her to not be in the same classroom as this boy, request denied. Then one day her mood shifted and she cried every morning not wanting to go to school. She couldn't tell us what happened. It was too traumatic for her to voice it. She was in 4th grade. Her behavior was very anxious and not able to stay in the classroom. They tried to accommodate her by spending time in the principles office. She was still not able to stop panicking. We had to take her out. 5 years of therapy later it was revealed she was sexually assaulted in the bathroom by the boy. She is still traumatized by it and probably always will be. We have been through hell. Suicide attempts , inability to focus, an eating disorder etc etc etc. she is now in 10th grade having to be held back a year because of lost class time due to the trauma. And disgustingly this was not an isolated instance. The one family we became close to who also left discover the same boy sexually assaulted their son. I'm not saying the school itself is awful in sure there are amazing experiences and caring teachers. And for many we met there this is the only option so you naturally choose to accept or maybe turn a blind eye to red flags. I don't know if the head of school has changed but she was awful. Good luck!

Frostig students excel in art classes.

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Enchanted Castle Montessori School - San Marino

4.9

(42 reviews)

1.0 mi

My child transferred to this preschool because of the Eaton Fire. One of the main reasons we chose…read morethis school was that it is much more than a regular daycare -- it offers a trilingual learning environment with reasonable price. Even though my child is in the English program, he also takes Chinese and Spanish classes. Friends of mine from other cities and states often see the school activities I share/post and tell me how envious they are that we have access to such an amazing preschool. My child has learned so much here, especially in STEM-related subjects. His life skills, independence, and hands-on abilities have improved tremendously. The school also provides a wide variety of enriching activities, including science fairs, carnivals, puppet shows, bubble shows, and animal petting events where the children can ride ponies and interact with rabbits and other animals. The school also hosts special Mother's Day and Father's Day breakfast events that make families feel very involved and welcomed. Every year, the winter and spring performances are what I look forward to the most. It is truly impressive to see a group of 4-year-olds confidently perform three English songs, one Chinese song, one Spanish song, and even a dance routine on stage. The children always look so confident and joyful. This year, my child will be graduating, and I am incredibly grateful to Ms. Joanna and Ms. Regina. They are warm, energetic, patient, and genuinely caring teachers. The classroom environment they create is loving and harmonious, and the children are kind and supportive toward one another. We will always appreciate the wonderful experience our child had here.

We have had such a wonderful experience with this preschool, and I cannot say enough positive…read morethings about the teachers and staff. Our child is thriving in the dual language immersion program--not only academically and linguistically, but socially and emotionally as well. The teachers are incredibly attentive, patient, and genuinely caring. It's clear they truly know and love the children in their classrooms. We've been amazed watching our child grow in confidence, communication skills, and curiosity every day. As parents, there is nothing more reassuring than knowing your child is in a safe, nurturing environment where they are well cared for. We are so grateful for this school and the amazing teachers and staff who make it such a special place.

Son showing off his new invention

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Waterworks Aquatics Pasadena

4.3

(615 reviews)

0.6 mi

Absolutely love this place Swimming Instructor Ms. Ashley…read moreZ. Is without a doubt the best! She has helped my special needs child in every aspect and adapts to her needs. Ms. Ashley Z is kind, understanding and very nurturing. Hats off to her and the work she does! My daughter has made so much progress not just in swimming but in her behaviors thanks to Ms. Ashley Z's devotion and dedication. Thank you, Ms. Ashley Z

My two daughters started swim lessons with Dexter with very little experience and a lot of…read morenervousness around the water. Since working with her, their confidence has grown tremendously.. not only in the pool, but outside of it as well! Dexter has such a gentle, patient, and encouraging teaching style that immediately made my girls feel safe and comfortable. What once felt intimidating to them has become something they genuinely look forward to each week. Their skills have improved so much, but even more importantly, their love for swimming has blossomed! We are incredibly grateful for the positive impact Dexter has had on both of our daughters. She has created a supportive environment where they feel confident, capable, and excited to learn. I highly recommend Dexter to any parent looking for a kind, knowledgeable, and wonderful swim instructor!

Swimming pool with instructors and students

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KidsZone Preschool Academy

Committed to satisfaction

(32 reviews)

4.0 mi

Certified professionals

I'm beyond blessed to have found this daycare center. My daughter started coming here when she was…read morea year and a half she graduated this summer at five years old. The beautiful growth and development of my children has been in large part of the staff and families of Kids Zone. Every single teacher treats your child like their own. They offered parents the peace of mind with cameras in every classroom that you can preview from an app on your phone at all times. They do a great job at keeping the center very clean. We will miss Kids Zone deeply.

Kidszone was the best decision I have ever made when it was time to send my child at the age of 2…read morehe stayed until he was 5 ! They are some of the most loving and caring teachers and staff in the Pasadena area ! My son learned so much and was well ready to start kindergarten this year . If you are thinking where to send your child you should not look anywhere else join Kidszone preschool Academy! You will love the community, communication and being able to check in on your child anytime of the day.

Front of our Facility! We also have plenty of parking!

Proud A+ Accredited Member of the Better Business Bureau!

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This is one of our play spaces!

Swimphi Pasadena

(8 reviews)

0.8 mi

My kids have been attending swimming classes at this location for the past few months. We've had…read moresuch a great experience! Alex and Jade are amazing -- super patient, encouraging, and great with kids. They make lessons fun while still helping my kids build confidence and skills in the water. Highly recommend!

I was looking for private adult swimming lessons and contacted Swimphi through the contact form on…read moretheir website. I got a call back within a day and was able to schedule lessons that same week, which I really appreciated! I love how they have all the information clearly laid out on the website so I know what to expect when I get there (even directions with pictures on how to get from parking lot to the pool, which was super neat)! I'm pretty much a beginner when it comes to swimming but my coach made sure I felt comfortable and safe in the water. My coach brought all the equipment needed for the lesson so it's super hassle-free. I was initially intimidated by the deeper end of the pool but my coach has always been very patient and encouraging and stayed right next to me the whole time to make sure I'm safe. I mentioned I was preparing for an upcoming trip since it will involve a lot of water activities and my coach really catered the lessons to my needs. I genuinely appreciate how patient my coach is, if I don't get a particular technique right away, we would try different variations and my coach would always remind me of the key points to remember. In the Pasadena location, it's an indoor pool that's heated and there are changing rooms available. Onsite parking in the lot is another plus! Highly recommend Swimphi to anyone looking for adult (or kids) swimming lessons in Pasadena!

Swimphi Triathlon Swimming

Swimphi Adult Lessons

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Swimphi Pasadena Swimming Lessons

British Swim School at LA Fitness - Hastings Ranch Pasadena

(8 reviews)

0.9 mi

I am so happy we joined the British school of swim! My baby was apprehensive at first, but the team…read moreuses may different methods for the kids. My two-year-old daughter specifically loves how they project stars on the ceiling during backflow, it helps her to relax. She also really likes that they have baby dolls in the pool because it makes her feel like she's playing. The facility at LA fitness is wonderful. They make it really easy to go in and out with small children. I highly recommend Coach Say-la, she is so patient and easy-going.

Great team. We used to go to a different swim school but…read morehere, the classes are smaller and we have seen our toddler thrive tremendously with this intimate class!

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Swim With Grace

(7 reviews)

4.4 mi

Grace is awesome!! She gave my 7 & 5 yr old private lessons summer of 2016. Prior to Grace, our…read moredaughters had years of lesson at Waterworks Irvine. We must have spent $1000+ but it did not work. 5yr old spent her lessons screaming and crying. It got very stressful and traumatic for ME! We also kept switching teachers at Waterworks...some were just not as good with kids. I've come to conclusion that places like Waterworks has a business model to keep you paying for lessons not necessarily getting your kids watersafe. Then we heard about Grace on the Irvine Mom Facebook board. I told her @ my 5 yr old. Immediately she CUSTOMIZED her teaching method and brought in toys. She is always smiling and calm with my daughters. And this is key with my 5 yr old who hated the pool. Grace also ask parents what the focus should be- swim safe or technique. Net net in just 2 months of private lessons- both girls love and ask to go to the pool. My 7 yr old can swim around by herself and my 5 yr old is no longer afraid. Plus Grace is super responsive with text & email, flexible with schedule changes. Other places are not. Only downside is I wish Grace had more Irvine hours. She splits her time her and San Gabriel Valley. I will definitely resume lessons with her the coming Spring.

Fantastic swim teacher. She's patient and gives good feedback. A few lessons go a long way. I saw…read moreimprovement after just 1 lesson! Highly recommend. Book early - she gets booked up fast!