Margo's Safety 1 Driving School - Frequently Asked Questions.

we're beside you all the way

Frequently Asked Questions:

So, do I not have to take the written test if I come to your school?
Margo's is part of a pilot program. This means that if you pass the written test on your first try in your regular class here, you do not have to take it at DOL. You must meet all of the those conditions, and this pilot is for a limited time. Due to a bill recently passed, however, we expect to be doing the driving and written test within the next few months.

Is this the same as the driver’s ed in public schools?
Our records, vehicles and premises are inspected annually by the state to make sure we meet all state standards, which is not true of public school programs. Course content, length and other requirements are set by the State of Washington. Our course meets all state requirements, and is very similar to that found in school districts. We also hold classes in two Marysville high schools.

How long does the course last, and what if I have to miss a class?
Five weeks - which includes 30 hours of classroom, plus 6 hours of driving and up to 6 hours of
in-car observation. You may miss up to a total of 3 classes, but must start attending by the third class--all missed classes must be made up.

How old do I have to be?
At least fifteen years of age by the first day of class.

Are the drives included in the class time?
No, students can schedule those separately at their convenience through our online scheduling program, but they should be done by the end of the five weeks, or at least within a couple of weeks of class end.

How much does all this cost?
Currently, the cost is $399 ($379 for 5-drive package), which may be paid with a $150 deposit to reserve a spot in a class; the remainder to be paid by the first day of class.

What about getting a permit?
We will issue a waiver on the first day of class or you can pick it up here within ten days of the class start. This allows a student to get a permit without taking the written test
right away. The test can then be taken later, after the course. Our test counts as the DOL written if passed the first time, in the student's regular class. Or, if you already have a permit, you won’t need to take the written test again later.

What if I’ve never driven at all before?
We’re here to teach you, and we start with the most basic skills like starting, stopping, and steering. It is very helpful if parents can practice with students at least in a parking lot for an hour or so before the first drive. This helps the student get comfortable and get more benefit from the drive. And we do expect you to practice frequently at home before and after drives with us.

What kind of cars do you use for lessons?
We have 2 Mitsubishi Lancers (2004-6), a Toyota Yaris (2008), Pontiac Vibe (2005), and a Mazda 3 (2007), all with air conditioning and airbags,and equipped with dual brakes, as required by law.

Can I get a license immediately after the course?
Only if you have had a permit for six months. The graduated licensing law requires that
applicants be at least sixteen, have had a permit for six months and have done fifty
hours (ten at night) of driving practice before applying for a license. Once students are
within two months of eligibility (sixteen and had a permit for six months) they can take
the tests, and the license will be sent upon eligibility.

What about Adult Lessons?
For people at least eighteen years old, much of the above information does not apply. Most
adults take one-on-one in car lessons charged by the hour, although occasionally an hour or two
of classroom time is needed.