Joan Wallace Driving School: excellence in driver education since 1976

Joan Wallace, centre, is flanked by members of the team at Joan Wallace Driving School. Photo supplied.
Joan Wallace, centre, is flanked by members of the team at Joan Wallace Driving School. Photo supplied.

Because learning to drive is a critical life skill that demands patience and dedication, Joan Wallace Driving School believes in preparing students for life, not just the test.

Under the leadership of Joan Wallace, owner and operator, and with a seasoned team of instructors and administrators, the school brings a wealth of experience and dedication to every lesson.

Joan Wallace Driving School has aligned its goals with those of the Driving School Association of the Americas’ (DSAA), which is to produce safe and proficient drivers through ethical education and business practices.

The school ensures that quality instruction is accessible to all and caters to drivers of all ages and needs. As expected, the school teaches new teen drivers, but it also serves adults aged 25 to 40 who need a first-time license for employment or are new to the province or country.

Seniors preparing for the Enhanced Road Assessment are offered free seminars to help them decide about road tests and are offered follow-up, in-car sessions.

What sets Joan Wallace Driving School apart is its non-franchised, adaptable approach, allowing it to be a pioneer in many areas.

The school was the first independent driving school to offer the Graduated Licensing Program and it offers training that can go beyond driving tests, such as teaching critical skills like highway high-speed hazard avoidance and space cushion driving. It also introduced online programs in 2017 to reach underserved areas.

The school also offers corporate training so busy professionals have the chance to make their commute more enjoyable by refreshing their skills in parking for every situation, collision and hazard avoidance, bad weather driving skills, and rush hour driving.

And the school had the foresight to address a growing area of need for drivers: understanding new cars with ADAS (Automatic Driver Assist Systems).

Joan Wallace serves on the DSAA board and actively participates in local organizations like the Chamber of Commerce and Better Business Bureau.

The school supports the community by funding sports teams and educational activities and offering seminars, scholarships and donations to MADD. Additionally, the school promotes environmental stewardship by using eco-friendly printing and being the first to use hybrid cars.

Joan Wallace Driving School is known for its longevity, accessibility, expertise and unwavering commitment to safety and community. Joan Wallace’s mission is clear: “We combine the latest technologies with patience and personal attention to ensure that you are kept in the driver’s seat.”