Mike’s Driving Academy folly rd charleston sc

Negative experience: Driver almost side swiped my car on main road

Fantastic experience: Mike is calm, patient and thorough. My daughter went to a different driving school on James Island and had a bad experience. They were impatient and didn't teach her the maneuvers she needed to pass the test. Mike did an excellent job and she passed her test with very few points lost.

Negative experience: One of your drivers almost hit me on savannah hwy this morning. He drove right over into my lane attempting to cross 2 lanes of traffic causing me to have to slam on my brakes to avoid an accident. I called the number and he acted like he did nothing wrong. Lic # PSL 728. You have no business teaching ANYONE how to drive.

Fantastic experience: Great driving, knows everything about the criteria for the testing

Fantastic experience: Very helpful instruction. Mike is a great guy who helps through the whole process.

Fantastic experience: I went to Mikes Driving Academy to get my licenses. The instructor is a really good teacher who will tell you the entire layout of the course of the driving test and all the maneuvers that you will be doing. He will adequately prepare you for the test so as long as you have lessons with him you should definitely be good and should have nothing to worry about.

Negative experience: I would NOT recommend having someone with terrible driving be the one to teach your children! (And based on other's reviews, he has not changed his driving habits.) Mike pulled out in front of me in traffic without coming to a stop (chose instead to roll out into traffic). He was going slow enough when he pulled out that I had to slam on my brakes as he did not match the speed of the traffic he pulled out into. He drove excessively under the speed limit, but that must have been because his phone call was much too important to pay attention to his surroundings. Yes, his phone was in his hand despite the fact that his car is new enough to have hands free connectivity. Btw, under current SC law drivers are supposed to be using phones hands free! DO BETTER MIKE!

Negative experience: My daughter went in July. they were very eager to sign her up and take our $$. After the in-person class in July she got her permit. We have been calling regularly to an instructor named Dan for several months now and haven’t had our first driving lesson (it is now Oct). We were promised two driving lessons right after she got her permit and one just before she tested. We have not gotten what we paid for and the services described. We called Mike and he talked a lot, made excuses, and didn’t really help us telling us that Dan was in Europe and would take care of us. It seemed like since we paid already, they didn’t care to follow up. My experience hasn’t been good. I would recommend that you steer away from this business. Mike seems like a used car salesman and just wants $$$. I’m going to have to have my credit card company go after these guys for services not rendered.

Negative experience: Was on his phone while driving almost hit another car. Sometimes teachers should be students. Absolutely ridiculous

Fantastic experience: Mike is a great instructor (and a wonderful person to boot)! Thanks so much for your help. Your clear teaching (and knowledge on what to focus) made it straightforward to take the driving test afterwards!

Fantastic experience: I can’t say enough great things about this experience for us and our teen The instructor went out of his way each and every time making sure that our teen understood all the laws of the road and then passed the road test with flying colors … excellent service thank you

Fantastic experience: Mike was an exceptional teacher. He worked with me several times and helped me build the skills and confidence I needed. I just passed my road test today! Thank you, Mike!!!

Negative experience: I was Charged $489 for 8 hours class and four two hours lessons ended in 02/17/2023 on 02/21/2023 Mikes came to my house and he said my wife’s need 40 hours family pratice on that day he charge me $298 for two additional lessons by the DMV and said to be act on mid April never came or call contacted him several time he said I’ll call back he never did I was riped off by this man and now he wants me to pay him again My biggest mistake is trusting him and pay him upfront for the lessons He he charged me $298 and when I sent him the bank statement now, he dodging me with the payment I’ll see in court buddy

Fantastic experience: Mike made getting my license super easy and fast 10 out of 10 experience

Fantastic experience: My daughter enjoyed her experience and was very happy with her training with Mike.

Fantastic experience: Mike is an excellent teacher with so much experience that is almost impossible to fail if he teach you. I got my license at first try just doing exactly what he taught me. Price is very affordable as well. I am sure that Mike's Driving Academy was definitely the best choice I could take.

Fantastic experience: Lessons were good, made it super easy to pass the test. Got my conditional first try.

Fantastic experience: Took his time to teach me all that I needed to know for the test and used the dmv path for practice so on test day, I was super confident.

Fantastic experience: amazing instruction with Mr.Mike!

Fantastic experience: I want to express my gratitude to Mike. For 3 lessons with him, I passed driving the first time. I recommend his academy to everyone. Спасибо!!!

Fantastic experience: Mr Mike is so nice and helpful! He knows all the tricks of the exam. Cheaper than other schools. Got the licence from the first trial. Highly recommend

Fantastic experience: Mike was a great instructor. I passed my driving test on the first try. Safety class was very helpful and informative.

Fantastic experience: Mike goes above and beyond to make their students successful! I have so much luck to find him. I failed 7 times my exam. I took 4 classes with him and i passed. I was so excited that couldn’t believe it I was like a kid with their first bycicle

Negative experience: Who ever was alone in the vehicle doesn't know how to drive, pulled out in front of me doing 20 in a 45, he did not have the space to come out and speed up in enough time, then proceeds to drive under the speed limit and hitting the brakes repeatedly for no apparent reason. Assuming there are multiple instructors it doesn't look great on a driving school to have someone driving like that disrupting traffic and causing issues. How you drive reflects on your teaching. I wouldn't want my child thinking they can pull out in front of someone with barely any space available, that's how people get hurt.

Fantastic experience: Mike's Driving Academy was great! Mr. Mike is an incredible driving instructor that is very knowledgable about the rules of the road. Each one of my 2 hr driving lessons were extremely helpful and allowed me to pass the road test on the first attempt!

Fantastic experience: Had a lot of fun driving with Michael. If you want to successfully pass on the first test, here is where to go!

Fantastic experience: Mike was incredibly helpful and patient while teaching me to drive. He helped ensure I would pass my first time, and I sure did!!!

Fantastic experience: Mike’s Driving School was awesome!! My son had Dave as his driving instructor. Dave outdid himself to make sure my son was more than prepared! He even met us at the DMV to take his test, and he passed with flying colors!

Fantastic experience: Definitely would recommend he’ll have you pass the test with flying colors and little to no mistakes

Fantastic experience: Mike is a great driving instructor and really helped me get all my classes done effectively with my schedule. He taught me is a super quick and efficient way so I passed first try.

Fantastic experience: Posting a glowing review for Mikes Driving Academy. Mike trained both my oldest sons & did a phenomenal job teaching them. Dave worked with my daughter and was extremely patient with her & truly went the extra mile to get her to the finish line. When my 4th child is ready in a few years, no doubt I will be calling them again!

Fantastic experience: A huge congratulations to Dave for helping my daughter build her driving skills and confidence. She passed her test on the first try and learned so many useful skills that will continue to help her daily. My special thanks to everyone at Mike's Driving School for everything they do to help prepare our young ones learning to drive.

Fantastic experience: Mike was so incredible and kind. I had taken the test twice before and once I got to drive with Mike his methods gave me what I needed to know! I was able to go in with the confidence and skills I needed!! I am now a South Carolina driver! Thank you so much Mike!!

Fantastic experience: Mike was great with my daughter. She had no problem passing her test.

Fantastic experience: Sir mike is very kind person. Has concern to his student. Got our license with first attempt. Highly recommended.

Fantastic experience: Great instructor, very knowledgeable when it comes to the rules of the road and what is required to drive a vehicle. Mike got me my license my first try and I would take his class again in a heartbeat.

Fantastic experience: Mike runs a great driving school. Bottom line is our son got great driving training from Mike and passed the road test the first time. Plus we got a discount on our insurance. Mikes class was interesting and the 3-2 hour private lessons were of great benefit to our son. Thanks so much Mike

Fantastic experience: Mike is a great instructor, and he worked with our schedule. A retired police officer, he knows his business. My son just passed with flying colors… I’ll be calling Mile again when my other teenager turns 15.

Fantastic experience: My driving instructor was Dave and he was absolutely wonderful, very experienced and super patient! He helped me pass my test at the first attempt! Would 100% recommend this driving academy to anyone!!

Negative experience: Do not take driving lessons from a place that went the wrong direction twice in a matter of minutes. If you're teaching driving you should be able to handle the directions in a parking lot.

Fantastic experience: Mike was very helpful in assisting me, with passing my drivers test THE FIRST TIME. He is very patient. He also takes you through the ENTIRE COURSE, so you will know what to expect an have no problem passing! Definitely would recommend if you are trying to get your drivers license, an pass the test first time around!

Fantastic experience: I just wanted to leave a quick note saying that I would definitely recommend Mike’s Driving Academy, I just passed my test with no critiques and I owe that to Mike who was an absolutely amazing teacher! 10/10 thank you Mike!

Fantastic experience: Wonderful instructor. Easy to get lessons scheduled in a timely manner. My son passed his test the first time. Thanks Mike!

Fantastic experience: Mr.Mikes Driving Academy is probably one of the best driving classes you could ever put your child, family member, or friend in. He’s very polite, patient and caring and make sure you learn everything you need for your driving test. He helped me out with a lot couldn’t do it without him.

Fantastic experience: i passed my road test thanks to mike!

Fantastic experience: I just passed my road test today at first try. Mike is definitely the best teacher. I really appreciate him for being patient and helpful.

Fantastic experience: Mike was so great with our daughter with her driving! He gave her the confidence she needed to be safe on the road, was enjoyable to be around and never let us down on any of her lessons! Several times he took her exactly thru what to expect for her road test which helped her a ton! We highly recommend Mike's Driving Academy for any new drivers/teens!

Fantastic experience: Mike is absolutely incredible! An expert instructor and extremely caring person. He is hands-on and gives his undivided attention to his students. Best driving instructor in the entire Charleston region. He went out of his way to help my son and we appreciate his expertise!

Fantastic experience: I am a novice driver of sixty years old. The actual road test felt very easy because of Mr. Mike's careful explanation and training. I am very glad that I took his lessons and I would recommend Mike's Driving Academy to anyone who needs to learn to drive.

Fantastic experience: Mr. Mike and the staff of Mike’s Driving Academy went above and beyond to prepare our son for his driving test. He truly cares about his students. He was always communicative and on time for the lessons. I’m convinced our son will forever remember the driving skills he learned because of Mr. Mike’s enthusiasm !

Fantastic experience: Mike is great at explaining the rules of the road and why they’re in place. He is also a good defensive driving teacher. And took me to the driving course before the actual DMV test so I didn’t have any surprises while getting my license. Also got my License first try thanks to him.

Fantastic experience: My daughter took Mike's driving course, then she had several lessons with Mike. Mike coached my daughter before her driving test and she easily passed. Mike was very accommodating, and we were pleased with how well he prepared our daughter for her test.

Fantastic experience: My son passed his test on the first try. Mike had him practice exactly what was on the road test so my son knew exactly what he needed to do. Was very helpful! Great communication with Mike, on time, professional and highly recommended!

Fantastic experience: My son passed his drivers test on his first try. After he completed the training, my son was giving me pointers on how to be a better and safer driver

Fantastic experience: My daughter just passed her driving test yesterday and we have Mike to thank! He is a very patient and encouraging teacher. He will come to your home to pick up for the driving lessons and meet at the DMV to go over what the driving test will look like. He is very dedicated to the success of his students. Highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: My daughter just passed her driving test today and its all because of Mike and his patience with her! The driving instructor at the DMV even commented that she received one of the highest road scores . Mike gave her the confidence and helpful ways to parallel park a car in a tight spot. He is reliable and very professional.

Fantastic experience: I used Mike’s Driving academy to get my license and could not be more pleased with the results. Mike drives with you himself and tells you everything you need to know for the test. I just did everything he said and I aced my test at the DMV.

Fantastic experience: Mike Shows special attention to details. He trained my son for the skills test and shared with him valuable information that my son will never forget. Thanks Mike for such a great experience... my son is now licensed to drive!!

Fantastic experience: Mike is an excellent driving instructor. Although I was not formally registered with the driving academy, Mike observed my driving techniques in the lot behind the DMV on Leeds avenue. As a result of the pointers I received from Mike I was issued my drivers license on first attempt. Thank you Mike for generous spirit.

Fantastic experience: Mike is truly the best driving instructor in the world. Not only does he teach you to drive, but makes you face and tackle your fear of driving with confidence and calmness. I had my driving license back from Ukraine, but never owned a car and driven it alone. I am 33-y.o. and have a number of problems with my eye-sight as well as a fear of driving. After having less than 10 classes with Mike I went all the way from shaking behind the wheel to comfortably driving on my own on highways and in downtown, rain or shine. I will always be thankful to Mike for doing what I thought was impossible.

Fantastic experience: I have a drivers license from Brazil but had to take a road test at Leeds Ave in order to be a licensed driver in the United States. I researched many schools in the Charleston Area and Mike was my first choice because he responds requests quickly, is very flexible with his schedule and is a very pleasant person to be around. I passed my road test on my first attempt and it went smooth. I took the test on his car and he was extremmely supportive the entire time. He also has a lot of experience with dealing with the DMV and helped me navigate the bureaucracy of it. But the most important thing to me was not only to pass the test but to learn how to drive in US highways, roads, downtown Charleston and feel safe and confident behind the wheel. After about 6 to 8 lessons with him I feel more confident and will remember his lessons about rules and safety. I recommend him 100% for anyone seeking a drivers license or that just needs some more guidance on how to be a better driver.

Fantastic experience: He is a great instructor! He taught me what I needed to do and what not to do on the driving test. I learned a lot of knowledge from his courses. I passed my test after 30 minutes and now I am a licensed driver!!

Fantastic experience: Absolutely awesome instructor, Mike communicates with parents on strengths and weaknesses...last class is right before the scheduled test to make sure they are ready.

Fantastic experience: Our son took Mike’s course for his first driver’s license. We are extremely pleased with how Mike’s program works. Our son gained so much knowledge of the laws and rules of the road. Mike went above and beyond to prepare him for his test. Thank you Mike. We highly recommend Mike’s.

Fantastic experience: Thanks Mike from Benjamin

Fantastic experience: We had a great experience with Mike! He is the most reasonably priced driving school in the area, but this is one of those times where we got way more than what we paid for. The classroom instruction was thorough and the individual time driving with him definitely prepared our son for the skills test. He got a perfect score on it! Scheduling was easy and Mike was very flexible in trying to accommodate a busy schedule. He is relaxed with the teen drivers and makes them feel so comfortable while they are learning. I would highly recommend him to anyone with a new driver!

Fantastic experience: Thanks Mike for teaching my 15 year old how to drive with confidence. She is now a licensed driver and is comfortable driving all around Charleston which is saying a lot. Highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: I am 19 and I needed a license to go to school independently without putting a huge burden on my mother. I called Mike’s academy and was able to start driving the next week. I took three more classes and today was my last class. I took the test 30mins ago and I passed. Thank you Mike! I can now go to work and school without being such a burden to everyone.

Fantastic experience: Very nice and great teacher :) HIGHLY RECOMMEND

Fantastic experience: Great teacher great guy he helped me a lot to understand how to park correct and drive safely . I pass my driving test today with the first try ! Strongly recommended !!!! Thanks Mike !!!

Fantastic experience: Mike was very helpful he made sure that i knew all the methods such as 3-point turning, backing up straight, parallel, and to make sure i always checked my blind spots even taking me to a DMV to practice their and learn the route for the drivers test.

Negative experience: Could have easily t-boned what I assume was "Mike" in West Ashley today pulling into Whole Foods. Hopefully these aren't the driving habits he is teaching. Also was obviously on his phone. Hey Mike- you get to turn when the light is green, not red.

Fantastic experience: Mike is a great and funny guy to do your classes with. Passed my test first try, today. He really helped settle my nerves. Lots of little good tricks and pointers that I’ll always remember!

Fantastic experience: HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Fantastic experience: Mike did an excellent job refreshing me to take the DMV road test. His precise knowledge of the test and firm teaching style gave me the confidence I needed to pass with flying colors. He even picked me up and allowed me to use his car for the test. Thanks Mike!!

Fantastic experience: I had a great experience driving with mike. And i learned surprisingly quickly.

Fantastic experience: Awesome experience driving with Mike, he helps walk you threw everything step by step. Highly recommend taking his driving program!

Fantastic experience: I just got my license thanks to Mike’s Driving Academy and I can say that he really prepared me well for what would be on the test and driving in general. He was a great instructor and is really encouraging while he teaches. He taught me everything to expect and I would definitely recommend him for any one trying to get their license.

Fantastic experience: Thanks Mike! Excellent advice, and one of my children has their license. To the best of my knowledge this is not a school (again, I could be wrong) that offers the driving test as part of the school. This is still an excellent school, but if you are looking for a school to do that this is not the one for you.

Fantastic experience: I had a fear of driving and Mike really helped me work past it and helped me develop a strong foundation in driving. I really appreciate his help and he set me on the path to overcome my fear.

Negative experience: I just was cut off by his car running a red light in the intersection of Maybank and Bohicket. Nice example to set for everybody, Mike. Very poor driving skills. Very dangerous!

Fantastic experience: I just recieved my licence and i really wanna thank mike for all his schooling. It had been 10 years since I drove amd he was patient and informative. I was very nervous and from what i learned with him he put my nerves at ease. Thank you mike.

Negative experience: I see my post was deleted as well as a few other post. Beware people. Ive seen this man texting and driving while swirving at times on folly road. I dont know who the competitors are nor do i care. I care about a any person texting and driving let alone a drivinng instructor. Wow.

Fantastic experience: Mike is a really nice guy and cares about his students and is a good teacher you should consider getting Mike to teach you how to drive

Fantastic experience: Completely easy and awesome experience using Mike to teach our oldest and first driver. Mike makes it super convenient picking up/dropping off for lessons. Our son was confident going into the test and passed on his first try. Thanks Mike, we'll be back with the next child all too soon!

Fantastic experience: Mr mike is a great teacher.

Fantastic experience: I highly recommend this driving school! The instructor is very professional and respectful, very accommodating to your schedule and tailors the classes according to your needs.

Fantastic experience: Just sent my youngest to Mike's Driving Academy. He was supper professional and friendly right off from the beginning. He did a great job at getting my kid to learn the rules of the road and become confident behind the wheel. I can't speak enough of how impressed I was with Mike's Driving School and how he put saftey first above everything. I would highly recommend anyone that wants a solid experience with a driving school and can trust that there child will be safe then go with Mike. No questions asked. Let his teaching do the talking.

Fantastic experience: Mike is an Awesome Instructor! Highly recommend this company for your upcoming teenage driver. He makes a special effort to make the parents and the child feel comfortable behind the wheel! My daughter was so nervous about her driver instructor being a male until the 1st day, she was completely excited at how comfortable he made her feel! That made mom happy!!

Fantastic experience: My experience with Mike and his business was nothing but positive; from the moment I dialed the phone number to the minute I smoothly passed my driving test. Mike teaches with a patiently thorough efficiency, I have only seen in a few others and his business proved to be a handy, educational resource. Mike’s calm demeanor and informative simple lessons/explanations really made conquering this skill possible, even at age 26 when everyone else around you has been driving for 10 years! I really felt Mike was personally invested in my success and safety on the road, ensuring I was familiar and comfortable with every inch of my vehicle before I got my license. I’d highly recommend Mike and his business, especially for teenagers first learning how to drive. Mikes patience and explanations really had me feeling like I was being taught by my own father, making the whole transition from passenger to driver much easier and smoother than I could ever hope it to be.

Negative experience: I witnessed Mike's Driving Academy almost hit a family with a baby in a stroller on Folly Beach. The family was crossing the street well in advance of the oncoming vehicle. I contacted the number on the side of the vehicle and the owner, Mike, told me that he did not have the time or the interest in discussing my concern. Mike was inside of the vehicle and told me that people should not be crossing the street (even though there is a crosswalk). Search elsewhere for better driver training schools.

Fantastic experience: I didn't have the patience (or nerves) to teach my son how to drive, but Mike did. And, he got almost a perfect score on his driving test! Thanks Mike!

Fantastic experience: Im really happy with the service that my Daughter recieved. I have been driving with her after your classes. I have to admit she has reminded me of rules that I forgot. Good looking out guys. Thank you Jimbo

Fantastic experience: Awesome driving school I am very happy using this service The defensive driving course took 10 Percent off my insurance. Thank you Mike .

Fantastic experience: I am writing this review because I was very happy with the service I recieved. I give Mike 5 stars without a doubt. Thank you for being so patient with me. Johnny

Fantastic experience: Thank you Mike for taking the time for teaching my daughter how to actually drive a car. I was not sure were to begin. I was more inclined to buy her a bicycle and call it a day. Your great!! And as far as these reviews I see. What those that even mean " He almost ran me over" how do you make a police report on "he almost ran me over." But did you die? OMG now I heard everything.

Fantastic experience: Mike is a patient and caring instructor. Highly recommend Mike's Driving Academy!!

Fantastic experience: Mike was very patient and calm with my niece. Couldn't have asked for a better instructor ! Highly recommend his services.

Fantastic experience: My grandson took driving lessons at Mikes Driving Academy, thought the course was well taught, and received his license to drive.

Fantastic experience: We chose Mike's Driving Academy for our granddaughter. We are so happy with Mike's professionalism. We were looking for someone who would ensure new skills with supervised training that is needed before young people take their behind the wheel test. We are confident she will achieve this in this driving school.