*Question Applies to Adults Only

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(360) 943-1123
support@cascadedrivingschool.com

What do I need to start?

For Adults

We offer either single lessons of packages in multiples of 6 hours. You will need a Washington State instruction permit or International Driver's License. Some other documents are acceptable. Please contact the school before scheduling your first lesson.

For Teens

We provide the information and forms for you to obtain a Washington State Permit the first night of class.  You will need to take that material along with a Parent or guardian if under 18 and approved identification to the Department of Licensing office (open Tue-Sat  8:30-4)  to obtain your Permit.  You first schedule drive will be 7-10 days after you begin.  All other materials are provided.

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How Long Does it take?

You can go from being a novice to a competent driver with the Washington State required minimum of 50 hours of driving practice - some may need more practice. Those hours can be a combination of lessons and practice with a 5 year or more licensed driver.

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What will the first lesson be like?

We start where you feel comfortable. That may mean backing and turning in a parking lot. For most students it will mean more advanced lessons depending on your level of experience. You progress as skills develop and we reinforce them as you improve.

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How often should I have lessons?

We recommend three times a week for at least one hour and hopefully two. Lessons should be combined with practice. We can provide the practice but a good driver, licensed for 5 years or more can assist.

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How often should I drive?

The best method is to drive daily. Frequent driving means the skills you develop are strengthened and don't weaken between drives. By driving often you will not have to relearn skills.

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Can I pass the test?

Yes, The three keys to passing the Department of Licensing test (DOL) are: Practice, Practice, Practice!

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Does Cascade have "shortcuts" to skills?

Yes, Our instructors are very experienced and their skills mean you will progress quickly. However these new skills need practice. Intelligence is not a substitute to building the experience and skills you need behind the wheel. Furthermore we are skilled experts on the rules of the road, defensive driving and the right skills in the care. By coming to us for lessons you get the correct answers given by highly experienced professional teachers.

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When are your classes?

• We offer classes on Mondays and Wednesdays and Tuesdays and Thursdays at 4-6 PM and 6-8 PM in Olympia and Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday 5-7 and 7-9 PM in our other locations. We also offer classes 7 days a week by appointment only. We do not drive after dark. For more information, give us a call or send us an e-mail or see our register page.
  
• We offer behind the wheel appointments 7 days a week.

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Can Cascade pick me and drop me off for lessons?

Yes, we can pick you up at home or work. If you are close the the classrooms we do not have a charge for this service. If you are further out we have a time and travel charge of $25.00 hr. or fraction thereof.

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What if I cancel or forget about the lesson?

Please cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Lessons not canceled in a timely manner are subject to a $25.00 missed lesson fee.

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Who are the instructors?

Our instructors pass a rigorous training and testing program and are certified by DOL. The pass an FBI background check. They have between 3.000 and 25,000+ hours of instruction experience.

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How can I find out more information on what the laws of Washington State are?

You can always e-mail us with any of your questions or check out the Washington State Licensing web site at www.wa.gov/dol/maintext.htm. You can also call the Lacey Department of Licensing at (360) 459-6753.

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What are your school policies?

• Driving is an adult responsibility. Student conduct is expected to be positive and non-disruptive.
  
• During the school year, unless specifically noted with the individual student, driving lessons will usually begin and end at the school.
  
• Students must sign-in when class begins. Those leaving without authority of the instructor will not be credited with attendance for that period.
  
• Students who do not attend for more than 4 sessions may be temporarily dis-enrolled. They will have to reapply based on space availability.
  
• Students who do not complete the class with in 18 weeks will be dropped and must restart the course, paying the current fee.
  
• Students must obtain a satisfactory competency. The 6 hours of driving we provide are lessons, practice is needed to secure proficiency. Students unable to practice at home may obtain extra drives at $45.00 an hour.
  
• We have a $25.00 fee for missed appointment without at least 24 hour notice.
  
• No refund will be given after the first lesson.

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What are your fees?

• Please see our register page.
  
• Full Payment is due at the start of the first class.

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What is GDL and how does it effect me?

• GDL is Graduated Driver's Licensing. On July 1st 2001, everyone under the age of 18 who becomes licensed after this date will be effected by this law. The highlights are:
  • Must have, from a licensed driver with 5 years experience, 50 hours of driving practice, 10 hours at night.
    
  • Must have a permit for 6 months prior to applying for a license.
    
  • No traffic violations with in 6 months prior to applying for a license.
    
  • No drug or alcohol offense(s).
    
  • Drivers must complete driver's education.
    
  • Restrictions for all licensed drivers who became licensed after July 1st 2001.
    
  • No driving between 1:00am and 5:00am unless with a driver over the age of 25.
    
  • First 6 months, no passengers under 20. Until age 18, 3 or fewer passengers under the age of 20. (Exceptions for immediate family)
    
  • Parent or guardian notification for infractions and suspension on further infractions.

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What do I need to apply for a permit and/or license?

• You must be at least 15 1/2 years old to get an instruction permit and 16 to get a driver's license. (You can get an instruction permit at 15 if you are enrolled in one of our traffic safety courses.)
  
• Proof of identification. (Expired license, a federal or state id, military ID card, passport, immigration card, affidavit from parent or guardian when applicant is under 21) Here are some examples of documents you can use.
  
  • Birth Certificate
    
  • Social Security Card
    
  • Marriage Certificate or Divorce Decree
    
  • Voter Registration
    
  • Foreign Passport
    
  • Employee ID Card
    
  • Government Issued Business and Professional Licenses
    
  • Vehicle Registrations
    
  • Credit Contracts
    
  • School Identification and/or School Records
    
  • Bank Account Statements
    
  • IRS Documents
• Providing a social security number is mandatory for all license applications.
  
• A certificate of completion of Traffic Safety Education Course (TSE) is required for license applications but can be waved for permits. Give us a call or send us an e-mail for more details.
  
• Parent or Guardian permission is required for any one under the age of 18.
  
• A vision, knowledge, and skill test is required for all first time drivers.

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Do you offer a payment plan?

We do accept Cash, Checks, Visa, MasterCard but we do not offer payment plans. Full payment is due at the start of the first class.

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Do you teach motorcycle riding?

No, we prefer to concentrate on automobile classes.

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Snow Day School Closures ?

School will not be conducted or drives given if the local school districts closes for the day.

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