Behind The Wheel Driving Academy

Expert Instructors with Law Enforcement Background

Behind The Wheel Driving Academy stands out in Chattanooga for its highly qualified teaching staff. The instructors are largely composed of former and retired police officers, such as the well-regarded John Collins, John Smiley, and Chuck Spurling. This background brings a unique level of authority, safety awareness, and real-world experience to the classroom. Students frequently praise these educators for being not only knowledgeable but also engaging, patient, and capable of making dry theoretical material interesting and relevant.

Comprehensive Training for Teens and Adults

The academy offers a wide range of courses tailored to different needs, from new teenage drivers to adults seeking to renew licenses or improve their skills. Key offerings include:

• Teen Driver Education: Comprehensive 30-hour classroom courses paired with practical driving hours.
• Defensive Driving: Shorter courses (4 or 8 hours) often required for traffic school or insurance discounts.
• Private Lessons: Flexible one-on-one sessions for those needing extra practice or specific skill building.
• Hardship Licenses: Specialized programs for younger drivers needing early licensure.

Building Confidence Through Technology and Practice

A major highlight of the student experience is the use of state-of-the-art driving simulators. This tool allows students to practice handling complex traffic situations and heavy traffic scenarios in a safe, low-stress environment before hitting the road. Combined with actual behind-the-wheel lessons in modern vehicles, this approach significantly boosts student confidence. Parents and students alike report that the academy effectively transforms nervous beginners into capable, safe drivers ready for the interstate and local roads.