Reviews of Golan Driving School (Driving School)

Tracey Pictor

Darren is an extremely patient instructor that went above and beyond to help prepare both my Husband and I for our driving tests.

Jacob Abrahams

When I first met Darren, I had just failed my first attempt at the G2 test after already having a license from out-of-province. With his careful and informative instruction, I got my certification after 2 months, and ended up a much more confident and safe driver to boot. Darren is great to work with: he's awesome at figuring out exactly what you need improvement on and making sure you figure it out your own way. I would highly recommend Darren to any adult drivers looking to get their license or even just brush up on their skills.

S Parikh

Best driving school in Toronto. Darren will identify your areas of trouble while driving and ensure they are corrected in time for road tests. His lessons have helped me pass both my G2 and G road tests. Super knowledgeable, incredibly dedicated, and a fun person to learn from.

Nizar Bekai

This is by far and away the best driving school in the GTA. Each lesson with Darren was comprehensive, full of advice, and constantly learning something new. I was never the most comfortable person about driving, and was pretty anxious about my road test, but after taking year-long classes with Darren, I not only aced my road test, but have never felt more at peace with driving in any sort of circumstance. Whatever your level of driving, whether going for a G2 or G, this is the place to go. Expect nothing but the absolute best.

Valery Podymov

Darren is one of the best instructors I've ever known. He deeply understands the difference between driving in Ontario and passing the road tests :) He recognizes quickly all of your weak points and helps you to eliminate them as much as possible. I passed my G full test at once!

Brittney Channer

Today I just passed my G2 test because of Darren. I have had PLENTY of driving instructors in the past that I cant even count. However, when I first met Darren, I knew this time it was going to different. When it came to driving, i was not confident at all and very nervous. Most of the techniques I had were very minimal and I did not know how to effectively carry them out. But Darren game me the confidence I needed to drive anything. His ways of teaching are amazing and makes you want to become a better driver. If you are looking for an amazing driving instructor who cares about you and making you a better driver, you need not look no further. You have found him. Give him a call today and you will be so happy that you did. I am glad I did. Thank You SOOOO much Darren. When its time for my G test, I shall give you a call. :)

Elliot Yunger

I took lessons for a G2 test with Darren. He was a great instructor and quickly got me ready to pass the test. Darren also has a lot of knowledge and best practices from his years of experience and I would recommend Golan driving school to anyone looking for an instructor.

Joel Oren

Darren is a great teacher: patient, knowledgeable, and does a good at job explaining what you need to know for the test. I just passed my G2 exam (first try after taking his lessons), and he was pretty much spot on with his predictions for test. Highly recommended.

Andrew Dunn

I used Darren to do a few refresher lessons before my G exit test since I waited a long time after getting my G2. I felt confident and comfortable going in to my test that we had covered everything that was expected. I would 100% recommend him to anyone I know who's looking for any type of driving lessons. He's very knowledgeable, has an amazing eye for detail, and helps you work on the exact areas you need improvement on.

Karen Lam

I just passed my G1 exit test at Downsview today! Yay! It was all thanks to Darren's help and guidance during my in car lessons. I like how kind but firm he is during driving lessons. He actually cares about the areas that I need improvement on and takes the time during the lesson to review/practice those areas. And the in class lessons are also very enjoyable. We also earned bonus marks when we participated in class.

Raygee

Darren was a great instructor! It was my second time to take the g2 test and I really wanted to get a good teacher that would help me pass the 2nd time. Here's an in depth review regarding my experience with him, in case there are others out there in a similar situation: I initially had a bad experience with my first instructor from a different driving school. He would panic and raise his voice any time I made mistakes. Being asked 'What are you doing?!?', or 'Why did you do that?!?' multiple times in a loud voice every session made me not want to drive any more, and he always made me nervous driving. I did some research online and found Darren and read the reviews about him. There was a lot of people that said he was a very good instructor and very patient. I decided to give him a call and schedule a review session a few days before my test. Right off the bat Ifound him to to be very professional, helpful, and understanding. Unlike my previous instructor he didn't panic. Instead of reprimanding me, he would explain to me why I shouldn't have done something and what I should do next time. Every mistake he told me was a 'learning experience'. Thanks to his method I learned how to drive safely. After one review session I didn't feel as confident as I wanted to be coming into the test. I asked Darren if it was possible to schedule another session, and he worked his schedule around to allow me to get more practice with him. What I like is that at the end of every session he would always tell you what you were getting better at, and what things you need to work on. That helped boost my self confidence and at the same time made me focus on my weaknesses. The day of the test we arrived at the center and It started to rain. I was VERY VERY nervous and anxious. Darren and I ended up getting into a conversation about things we had in common, and it helped calm me down while we waited. He assured me as long as I relax I would do well. I felt a little better when the tester finally came and I took the test. Long story short I passed! I was still a little nervous during the test, but Darren's pointers and instructions helped me drive safely. We had a happy conversation on the ride back, and he ended up dropping me off at my work. If you are someone who gets nervous during a test (or just driving in general), I would highly recommend Darren. You can tell he really wants you to pass and he does his best to help! All these 5 star reviews are a testament to that! Thanks again Darren!

jae Frames

Saved me hundreds of dollars and ALOT of time. Early booking worked amazing and the 2 lessons made allll the difference. Thank you for everything.

antera bae

If you're looking for the best driving school, look no further! Darren took me from a very nervous driver to passing my G1 exit test first go at Downsview with an almost perfect score (pesky hill parking!) in next to no time. He quickly assesses your skills, and then works with you to fix what needs fixing as efficiently as possible; no wasting time with unnecessary lessons! Apart from being very knowledgeable, what really makes the difference is Darren's style in the car. He's patient and relaxed, but also firm when he needs to be, and is great at explaining what you're doing wrong, the consequences, and how to correct. He even makes the lessons fun! All of this helped build my confidence behind the wheel, and I'll be back again soon to prep for my G.

Jessica Hoang

A few years ago, I had the pleasure of working with Darren. I didn't do the in-class lessons and only opted to do the driving lessons to work towards passing my G2. Darren was knowledgeable, professional, and funny. He provided a lot of productive feedback and some helpful tips on how to be a better, safer driver. I 100% recommend him to anyone who wants a knowledgeable and nice instructor.

Jose jaram

Awesome methodology, I passed my road tests on the first attempt. very recommended.

Diana Jazz Rodriguez

I just passed my G2 , thanks so much for my instructor Darren who tough me all what I was needing to I successfully pass my G2 ! Great service and very professional! I recommend Golan Driving 100% !

Sam Maurin

Let me start off by saying that I am not a regular reviewer, probably have written one review before in my life. The reason why I have chosen to take the effort to write a review for Golan driving school is because it is literally the best- by such a long-shot- driving school I have encountered. I've had driving instructors that yell, finish their lunches, listen to the radio, call their friends and etcetera in the middle of lessons- but aside from all these little quirks, the one thing that bothered me the most is their tendency to lay out inconsistent rules with out logical backing- turning student drivers into robots that swing their heads every direction while driving at 100km/h. In the single lesson I had with Darren, I was not only taught each one of the rules from MTO, but also the reasoning behind them. For example, checking your blind spot while making a left turn makes sense once you realize that you're really checking for pedestrians about to cross from the other side. What makes this much more significant than simply checking your blindspot in order to pass a driving test is that it builds the intuition behind MTO rules; you'll start to to perform these safety maneuvers without conscious thought. Even after passing my test, I noticed that these safety checks just became a part of my casual driving- as in, I performed them without thinking- even when there was no examiner in my car. Darren taught me each of these skills in a very dense 45 minute lesson through light hearted instruction and humour. It's amazing what a difference a great teacher makes. Did I forget to mention that I passed my test with a 100%?! haha. P.S. I actually live around 30-45 minutes away from Golan Driving School. The drive was still so worth it. It is so difficult to find a good instructor where I live. Would definitely recommend to my friends.

Luca Lussoso

I highly recommend Darren, he is a great instructor, very patient, he explains things very clearly and makes you comfortable while driving. He helped me passed my G2 after failing with another driving school. He helped me understanding all the rules and was able to correct my european driving habits that don’t match the Canadian way. I will definitely use Darren’s help to get my G licence.

Daniel Coutts

I'm lucky I found Golan Driving while looking for fast booking services. Darren made booking my road test very easy and was able to find me a time the next day. It was well worth my money to get it booked sooner as I would've been waiting months had I not contacted Darren. It's a definite 5 stars from me!

Ellen L (Ghostfish)

I took an hour lesson with Darren before doing my road test to get my G and I passed! He was a great teacher - very friendly and supportive but also helped me improve on my weak points. I highly recommend a lesson with him if your road test is coming up.

Johary Razafindratsita

Darren is an amazing teacher! He took me to my driving test (G) and I passed on the 1st attempt! Great guy too!

Moe Mozaier

Great instructor - prepped me up really well for my G Test and got me to pass it from my first try. Darren did an awesome job as he puts his utmost energy and focus into his classes - I would highly recommend him.

Hallan Patrick

Darren is the best! I had just a few lessons with him and a passed my G test at first! I strongly recommend him!

Kelcie Borley

Took a refresher lesson with Darren before taking my G road test. He was very knowledgable, friendly and had lots of great tips for taking my road test. Passed with flying colors! 10/10 would reccommend to a friend.

Brian Nguyen

After getting my G2 and not driving for several years due to living downtown, my license was set to expire. Darren was able to get me ready for my G test (Passed @ downsview on the first try) in a few months with bi-weekly lessons alone despite my inexperience. Would highly recommend. My experience with Golan was a huge step above a cheaper driving school I used to prepare for my G2.

Daniel Gay

Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a effective, patient, and experienced driving instructor. Darren is a great teacher who expertly points out your strengths and weaknesses, and the best methods on how to improve your driving. I was able to pass my G road test, having not driven in Ontario before, after taking some lessons with him. He is good value for money, and also a great guy and amazing teacher. Thanks again.

steve zucker

I wanted to give a shout out to Darren and his terrific driving school. My son had 15 lessons and classes prior to taking his G2 and passing. Darren was always on time for every lesson, communicated well with my son and with my wife and I about his progress. I would highly recommend him for giving your son or daughter driving lessons. We will be using him for highway lessons prior to my son going for his G class license. Just to mention he was able to find him a test on a Saturday within a week's notice using his Speedy Road Test Booking Service. Thanks Darren and Golan Driving School. We have already recommended you to our niece.

Wenxuan Qiu

Before working with Darren, I had very little confidence in my driving abilities. I felt more confident after each lesson. In a few weeks, I became very comfortable behind the wheels and understood exactly what I needed to get out of difficult road situations.

Deanna Valladarez

Darren got me a g2 test booked within 1 day after requesting so thankful I didnt have to wait till February for my exam took it this morning and passed thanks again for your service

Bartholemew Smith

I came to Darren with 0 driving experience and literally not a clue how to drive. Despite my awful mistakes Darren remained patient and helped me get my G2 license. In addition to that he is absolutely hilarious if you get to know him. I would 100% recommend / take this school for my G2 exit as well.

Shane Robbins

Golan Driving School is an incredible program whether you're in class in or in car. They do their best to make class fun and entertaining and make sure you aree 100% ready to get through the test and onto the road.

Gustavo Jacobs

Darren, the instructor, is extremely experienced and a great teacher. He only gave me only as many lessons as I needed to pass my G2 road test on the first try, and that day he ensured I had all the necessary tools to pass it. I didn't have to line up or wait for the test-taker either. All in all a fantastic experience. Highly recommended!

Elnaz D. G

Darren is a patient and helpful instructor, I rarely drive and he prepared me for the G in only a couple of lessons and I passed on the first try. Really pleased with the service.

aisling ni dhonnchu

I had purchased a driving lesson from AMB Driving school (2 hour minimum) and it was the biggest waste of my time and money!! With my booked test less than a week away, I was worried that I hadn't had a legitimate lesson and I called Darren at Golan Driving School to book an appointment. He accommodated my request for a lesson despite the short notice AND the fact that it ended up being a snow day on the day of my lesson. The only reason I passed my test was because of Darren. His teaching style was perfect for what I needed - concise, honest and accurate advise. Darren also answered my texts the next day before my test with last minute questions and concerns. I could honestly not recommend Darren more. Best value for money I could have hoped for! THANK YOU DARREN! :)

Damilola Otepola

I had a couple driving lessons with Darren prior to my G2 test, and he was an amazing teacher! He has a great understanding on the requirements to succeed as a driver in Ontario, and Toronto no less. Of course it helps that I passed my G2 (on the first try with him) a couple days ago. I definitely recommend.

Maritza

Darren is a great instructor and I definitely recommend him. He is very patient and relaxed which made me comfortable to drive. He explains things well and consistently until you get it right. I was very nervous with my driving but through Darren's coaching I became confident and passed the G2 test. For my G license I will definitely be reaching out to Darren for lessons.

Roberto Hernández

A friend recommended Darren's services after my first failed attempt at G2 test. I was eager to book as soon as possible, but due to Covid-19 the earliest booking was until December 2020. I contacted Darren for the fast test booking services. It worked perfectly, I got an appointment the week after I contacted him. Additionally, I signed up for a standalone class, and the vehicle for the road test. Best decision I've ever made! He is extremely personable, and a great teacher. He always provided useful and actionable feedback. Needless to say, I passed my G2 exam, and it wouldn't have been possible without Darren's assistance. My recommendation: Look no more and sign up with him. You will not regret. Thanks a lot Darren, will be back in touch soon, for sure!

Tammy Vegter

We had a couple refresher lessons and used the driving school car for the G road test. Darren is an excellent instructor with a casual and relaxed demeanor and a totally genuine wish to help. Darren eased any fears of failing the drivetest and corrected a bunch of acquired poor driving habits, The G test was easily achieved- huzzah!!! What's more, some scary driving tendencies have been eliminated--- a total bonus!!! Highly recommended.

Nivet

Darren helped me get my G2 after not having driven for nearly four years, learning from my 'expert' dad. Don't go for an instructor that tries to offer you $30 lessons, they don't give a damn. Darren will teach you the ins and outs with more attention to detail than even the people evaluating your road test will. Highly recommend, and I'll be coming back for my full G training.

Francois Van Jaarsveldt

Darren was a great teacher. Helped me pass my G. I would recommend him to anyone. Real value for money!

Jason Stone

It seems very peculiar that this “driving school” has five stars from every person. First off, this IS NOT an MTO approved driving school and their claim of insurance benefits from taking their program is false advertising. The cost is overpriced considering the instruction you get – the instructor (Darren in my case) will spend more time grabbing the steering wheel and hitting the breaks than actually helping you learn. The feedback from him was incredibly frustrating as well, since you feel belittled the entire time -- no idea what the other reviewers are talking about. I would highly recommend using an actual MTO approved school. They are calm and collected, and won't cause you anxiety and panic for making a mistake -- after all we are trying to learn. Do not waste your money here.

An Ho

I contacted Darren via phone and email. He gave me great instruction and saved me a lot of time. My original booking was 4 months from now, March 04th and he shortened it down to 2 weeks. He even warned me about all possible short notice that I have to prepared for. Very professional and great service for a very reasonable price.

Jay Gee

I took lessons from Darren from Golan Driving School in preparation for my G test. He is professional and very knowledgeable, and provided a comfortable in-car atmosphere. Darren helped identify and correct my problem areas, which made me feel much more confident in my highway driving and other important road habits. He gave alot of practical advice for the test itself, and I felt confident on the day of my test.. I'd definitely recommend Golan Driving School for anyone who wants to learn to drive or needing a refresher course.

lauriz joy

Hands down one of the best driving instructors I’ve encountered. Feeling super confident in passing my G test with his help. Will be recommending everyone that needs a driving lesson to Darren!!

Susan Ramsarup

Passed each road test at Downsview on the first try with Darren's excellent instruction. He helps to build confidence and corrects with his deadpan humor. If you're concerned about the $, Golan is well worth it as you'll save money and time overall. No re-tests if you get it right the first time.

Marilyn Edo

Darren was an excellent driving instructor - knowledgeable, friendly, really professional. Since I had not driven in many years, I was very scared of driving and had a huge amount of anxiety. Darren was patient and supportive. Not only did he give me technical instruction, but he really helped me to get out of the negative feedback loop that was happening in my head. I'm so glad that he got me back on the path to driving. I would recommend him to anyone looking to for a great driving instructor.