Frequently Asked Questions - Private Training

If I purchase private drive lessons how long before I can get them scheduled? How long is each lesson?

• Lessons may be scheduled immediately and are each 2 hours in length.

After my student completes private driving lessons is there any certificate or something stating that they took the lessons. Will that help with insurance?

• Certificates may be issued upon request.
• Any and all charges must be paid in full before a certificate of completion will be issued.
• Lost, damaged, or missing certificates of completion can be replaced with a duplicate for a handling fee of $10.00

My student does have their permit. I am not sure whether the Teen program is better for them or just the private drive lessons. What do you think? What is the big difference in the two?

• Students under the age of 18 will need to take the both the classroom and BTW prior to licensure unless a parent is going to spend 100 hours practicing with them. The classroom instruction prepares the students for BTW lessons and expands their knowledge of safe driving practices. Your insurance company will likely want to see that your student has completed an ODOT certified course before granting a discount on premiums.

Can I get a refund if I’m still not able to pass my driver’s test?

• ODEC is in the business of providing a service, namely the service of providing training and knowledge. Knowledge is a non-material commodity that cannot be returned or exchanged; therefore we cannot refund money for services already provided.
• Payment is due in full prior to the first day of instruction. If not paid in full, the hourly of "STANDARD" price will be assessed for instructional packages.
• If the account has no activity (scheduled driving or classes) for a period in excess of 6 months then a $25.00 reactivation fee will be charged prior to the first day.
• If a student cancels a lesson (scheduled driving or classroom instruction) with less than 72 hours notice, has no permit, is a no show, or is otherwise unable to conduct the scheduled lesson then the lesson will be forfeited with no refund.

What is the difference between teen classes & private lessons?

• The private lessons are one-on-one driving lessons.
• Teen classes are ODOT approved and geared for 15 to 17 year olds with a permit. They include classroom instruction as well as drive lessons.

Can I get training in a car with a manual transmission?

• Yes, but you must provide a fully insured vehicle with manual transmission. You must have one lesson in our vehicle with automatic transmission and instructor brake prior to this training.

Do you have bilingual instructors?

• Yes we have a two Spanish speaking instructors and one Chinese speaking instructor.  They are available in limited areas upon request only.

I have completed lessons with your instructors and want to take my DMV drive test. Can I use your company car?

• Since the DMV does not provide test vehicles, many students turn to us for a drive test vehicle.
• We provide a 3 hour DMV test sessions that include a one hour lesson just prior to the test. 
• Prior lessons & instructor approval required.
• Only Available from Portland/Metro area through Salem, Oregon.
• Must be scheduled directly by the ODEC office.

Can the instructor take me on the drive test route?

• No.  They can give you a mock drive test but cannot take you on the exact drive route.

How much driving experience should I have before scheduling the Xtreme Driver Control Course? Do I need a permit or license?

• You are not required to have a permit or license because it is a closed course. However, we recommend at least 20 hours of behind the wheel experience before taking the course.