Driving Instruction and Classroom Instruction

Instruction includes 8 hours of classroom and 6 hours of behind-the-wheel driving. Classroom is conducted in two 4-hour sessions, over two consecutive days.   On a case-by-case exception, a student may attend the 2nd day of the class at a later date (i.e., student wakes up sick on the 2nd day of class).  See "Calendar" for updates.

The 6 hours of driving may be divided into five sessions of 1:20 + 1:20 + 1:20 + 1 + 1 = 6 hours, with the last hour serving as a review just before the road test, so that the student goes into the test warmed up at peak performance. Or lessons may be divided into four sessions of 1:40 + 1:40 + 1:40 + 1 = 6 hours, to suit the student's preference. Very flexible - - may be any day including holidays, mornings, afternoons, evenings.  Lessons may start at 1724 Shady Grove Rd, Irmo, and end at the student’s house in the nearby area.  Lessons may also start at Dutch Fork High, Spring Hill High, Irmo High, Chapin High.  All students from any high school, including private schools, home school, etc, are welcome at Dutch Fork Driving School.

Minimum Requirements

The 8 hours of class and 6 hours of behind-the-wheel driving with a driving instructor is the minimum required for 15-16-year-olds getting a driver’s license and the minimum for 17+ year olds to qualify for insurance discount. Change for 2025: “Alive at 25” course is no longer required for parking pass (DFHS / CHS / IHS / SHHS) if the student completes the beginner driver's ed course.

If desired, a student can start driving lessons ahead of the class date. Ideally the last driving lesson, typically 1 hour, should occur just prior to the road test, which is after 181 days of holding a Beginner’s Permit. Change for 2025: For those age 18+, the Beginner's Permit is required for only 31 days.

Classroom Location: 1724 Shady Grove Rd, Irmo SC 29063

This is the 1-story brick house opposite from the Walnut Grove Subdivision entrance. Class size is limited to 27 students.

Two female German Shepherds, very friendly with strangers, have been part of the classroom since puppies. If your teen is allergic, etc, may request a desk away from them. Woof!

Schedule Your Sessions

To get started, please email Richard Zimmer at dutchforkdriving@bellsouth.net to set up a registration visit at 1724 Shady Grove Rd, Irmo. 15 minutes will be needed for paperwork, and more time if the student is ready to schedule any of the lessons on the calendar.