So, I just got my permit. Here's what I think about Driver's Edge.
First off, it's very hard to do poorly in this course. After you complete the worksheets, the instructor(s) go over them with the class. Not only do they allow you to fix errors, they also have you highlight every question that will be on the final test, making studying a breeze and allowing you to easily pass with flying colors.
Furthermore, the location is phenomenal. Since the classroom is right next to Wicked Brew, students have easy access to a quick pick-me-up when break time comes around. Also, food is readily available inside the classroom as well.
However, there are some things about Driver's Edge:
While we're still in the classroom, the instructor(s) will sometimes talk over the videos they're showing. Because of this, it's hard to get information from either source because the noises overlap each other. Other than that, there's not much else to the classroom.
In regards of driving an actual vehicle, I have quite a bit to say.
As ancient as they are, the school has picked an appropriate selection of vehicles for students to drive. They are small and easy to control, albeit some of them are a little creaky.
Now, Ive only driven with four different instructors, so I can't speak for everybody. But, about the instructors:
I appreciate the slow build-up that the instructors take when it comes to transitioning from a parking lot to bustling traffic. When I took my 10 hours of driving, I barely noticed that I was in traffic until I was driving myself back to the Airport Mall, yet I was still completely aware of my surroundings!
Some people tend to complain about the instructors going into off topic conversations about things like their personal life during the driving appointments, but I believe that this is helpful. You're going to be talking to your passenger 9 times out of 10 when you eventually get your license, so it's a good idea to start practicing now.
I won't point fingers, one of the instructors was especially mentally tiring. Because they were always on egde and laying on their brake, this tired me out to the point of almost driving off the road, so I had to take a quick break.
Another instructor, however, was especially laid back. Many other students appreciate this instructor's mellow attitude, and I can see why. They did have to use their breaks from time to time, but mostly, they just taught students how to slow down more efficiently, for example.
All the other instructors I've driven with weren't too notable, mostly because I only had a single hour with one and the other one was... "Meh."
To conclude, Driver's Edge is strong in some places and needs work in other areas. The curriculum was easy as pie and was mostly enjoyable. The actual driving, however, is variable depending on who the instructor is. Likely, you're going to have an easy drive with your instructor. Other times, not so much, especially at night. For these reasons, I'll give Driver's Edge 3 stars, the curriculum was easy, albeit unchallenging. The driving appointments we're mostly able to be completed with minimal effort, and the location was just right, especially to those who attend John Bapst.