Bakkers Driving School

Negative experience: Took money for driving lessons. Instructor did not show up and now we are not able to get hold of anyone from Bakkers . It is really frustrating

Negative experience: Seemingly out of business, didn't contact customers who ordered lessons months in advance nor issue refunds, phone number line is down, and seemingly no physical office available. Contacted their booking software support "Vagaro" and they are unable to issue a refund. The business's membership with the software is cancelled which is why my appointment disappeared from their platform. Not even going to bother emailing and waiting just straight to charging back. It's unfourtunate if what happened to the owner is true but there should be some sort of hierarchy of management who can atleast do the bare minimum in eithering maintaining or PROPERLY closing the business.

Negative experience: The website I made an appointment on never notified me on bakker's closing. Heard that the owner passed away. Can't get my money back, and I don't have my yellow slip I need to qualify for the driver's license, because I am under 18. I scheduled my test next week.

Negative experience: Bakker appears to have closed permanently leaving people without their certificates proving they took the online course and no refunds for behind the wheel.

Positive experience: Great school, but I just heard they may be closing. As of now, we were told to go somewhere else.

Fantastic experience: Rykendrick was absolutely the best instructor. He was kind, patient and extremely clear. Our twin boys learned so much from him and felt so well prepared for the driving exam. Both past, first try. I really am thankful we were referred to him!

Fantastic experience: My son had a great experience. The online materials prepared him for the written test and the driving instructors were all professional and effective.

Fantastic experience: I took my first driving test today and i passed. I owe everything to Bakker's Driving school and their top notch coaching. They knew exactly what is required to pass the drive test . They care about each driver and make sure you are a better driver. I am a very nervous driver and they hammered that out of me and made sure i enjoyed my driving while also following the proper rules. Thankyou so much Rod and Brandon.

Fantastic experience: Roderick is such a gem to get trained by. He was clear on what my needs were, what my areas of improvement were, and with all his guidance and diligent efforts, I passed my drive test in 1st attempt without any issues. Highly recommend thia school!!

Fantastic experience: We had a great experience with Bakkers! My son really enjoyed driving his instructors and he learned a lot from them. After his behind-the-wheel lessons, they even provided written notes he could keep for reference. And when we needed some help the night before the DMV test, the owner went above and beyond to assist us. Highly recommend.

Negative experience: I watched their car drive erratically all over Carmel Mountain Road, max acceleration turning left off the red light, swerving within the lane nearly clipping the median and then topping out at 15-20 over the posted speed limit past two 40mph signs over a blinded intersection at the top of hill. I waited for a correction as in the instructor intervening, but it continues as of that was normal. I then thought it might be a car returning to base, but no, there was a young and clueless student driver being allowed to drive foolishly without regard of the instructor for public safety.

Fantastic experience: This is my first lesson at Bakkers Driving School, since it’s only my second hour driving, I’m not very good. But she kept on encouraging me and cheering for me, which makes me feel better about my skills. We also went to the major roads, it was scary at first, but as she guide me through it, it gets easier. When it got dark, she helped me to stay in line, when it was very hard to see. So overall Ms. Candice is an amazing instructor.

Fantastic experience: I had a great experience with Bakkers Driving School, especially with my instructor Christine H who patiently lead me through the driving process step by step. I am thankful for her guidance which helped me get my driver's license in one go.

Fantastic experience: Lyla is an excellent driving instructor and so clearly explained traffic rules using pictures she has made on her own. Very nicely explained specifics of turns etc and what exactly to look for.

Fantastic experience: Special thanks to Bakkers and driving instructor Leilani for teaching my son how to drive and for providing so much helpful guidance throughout the process. My son just got his drivers license today! If you’re looking for an outstanding driving school, look no further!

Fantastic experience: I had a great experience with Rykendrick. He is very supportive and helpful when I was learning how to drive. I highly recommend him as a driving instructor. I passed my driver's test with 0 errors because he helped me with preparing for the behind the wheel. Best driving instructor in town 10/10. :)

Fantastic experience: Good feedback, easy to follow directions, nice guy, very helpful, and encouraging. My son Nate had a great experience driving with you :) Thank you very much Rykendrick! #1 driving instructor in SD!

Negative experience: Had a very unfortunate encounter with an instructor driving about town tonight driving a company car. She violently sped in front of us while we were merging into a one lane road. We were already in front of her and she swerved to get in front of us. It was extremely uncalled for and dangerous. Not to mention we had our 8 month old in the car with us. She was alone in the car so we know for a fact it was an instructor for this company. License plate number was 8JPT704

Fantastic experience: I want to thank the Bakkers Driving School and Janessa in particular. First of all, this school is the only one I’ve called where a real person picked up, not a robot. Their license on the website is visible and easily discovered, so I could check it via DMV website to see if I can take driving lessons there (spoiler alert: it’s valid). Customer Service is on point, thanks to Rod (I may misspell the name) and his assistant, who are always picking up the calls. I highly recommend Janessa. She is a great, kind, smart, logical and analytical teacher. She notices every little detail and can analyze why I make mistakes and what to do to prevent them. I want to say that thanks to her contributions in a shape of really smart and helpful hacks, I was able to successfully pass the behind-the-vehicle test today with 4 mistakes out of 15 possible ones. Janessa just helps a lot with explanations of how to do the pullovers, how to park. When you take a lesson, you want to trust her, which always leads to the great results. Janessa is dedicated to prepare you not just for the test, but for driving in life generally. She cares about my ability to be a good driver as #1 priority. So, I do highly recommend this school and my teacher! Thank you once again! If this is helpful, I took 9 lessons to prepare for the test and to learn how to drive…and got one for free :)

Fantastic experience: We used Bakkers driving school for our son's driving lessons. Scheduling lessons online was very helpful . My son worked with two different instructors and both were very good. The tips provided to take the dmv test were spot on. Highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: Shardae did a great job teaching our son to drive! He learned a lot in just a few lessons.

Fantastic experience: I arranged a lesson for my octogenarian aunt who was required to take a driver's exam in order to renew her license due to her eye site deteriorating in one eye. At the lesson, my aunt entered the instructor Cheryl's car and was unfamiliar with the interior such that my aunt said she was too uncomfortable to drive the car. Cheryl understood and assured my aunt that she would be refunded the advance payment for the lesson. I called Bakkers to follow up on the refund and the gentlemen in the office politely explained that the refund had already been processed and that I should have already gotten an email explaining that. The gentlemen was kind enough to spend the next 15 minutes on the phone with me giving me tips on how to help my aunt pass her exam. Kudos to Cheryl and the gentlemen I spoke to on the phone at Bakkers on how they handled this situation!

Fantastic experience: All three of my children learned to drive from Bakker’s. They received exceptional instruction and are competent, confident drivers. The owner is caring, professional and goes over and beyond to ensure that everyone is comfortable. The instructors are safe, diligent and go over details with the students to help them pass the DMV test. I highly recommend this service.

Fantastic experience: I'm over the moon happy that I found Bakker's driving school for my son! Inexpensive and the amount of patience each instructor had, especially the owner Rodrick Stansbury, they all go above and beyond in my books! What I thought would take a long time, Rodrick helped my son ace his DMV behind the wheel test on his 1st try! Can't thank you guys enough! 5 Golden Stars All the way!

Fantastic experience: So I've got a wild ride of a five star review, so buckle up. I called up and booked some appointments with Bakker's for a few lessons; everyone was very kind and taught me a lot, professional, on time, helpful, etc. The owner is very polite and caring as well. However, for a lesson before the exam, the owner misremembered the time slot and didn't show up. But he worked with me, refunded me, and we scheduled another time, he was very open, very kind, and I eventually did get my license. It was a bit of a mess getting everything sorted, and I know some would give it a one star, or a three star, but based on all of the instructors I met, their qualifications, their patience, and attitude, the place definitely deserves a five star review. Roderick is a stand up guy and was very willing to work around my schedule and help me plan everything out.

Fantastic experience: I’ve used Baaker for both of my boys now. I have been so impressed with them. They really worked with my complicated schedule to get the drives we needed. They were always really friendly and knowledgeable. They gave my boys lots of pointers and tricks to passing the test. They even took them to the DMV area where his appointment was so that he could get familiar with the roads. I recommend them to all my friends.

Fantastic experience: This is one of the best driving school and best people you’ll come across. Rod and Cheryl both were so kind, patient and professional teachers. They went above and beyond to make sure I passed the test. Both have so much experience and they make sure to teach and practice everything to ensure that you pass the test. I 100% recommend Bakkers and Rod and Cheryl.

Negative experience: The quality of the instructors has definitely gone down since I used Bakkers 5 years ago for my older kids. My daughter was not taught driving techniques (such as parking, emergency lights, turning),they just drove around for 2 hours. For the last session, I asked the instructor, Cheryl, to drive around the Poway DMV and do the test route since she will be taking her driving test in 2 days. Cheryl took her to Del Mar and La Jolla instead. She didn't help my daughter prepare for her test at all! Very unprofessional of her to take my kid driving around the beach instead of the DMV or her school, areas where it will benefit her the most. I definitely do not recommend this company! It's not worth your money.

Fantastic experience: My main man roddy taught me well.!! Fantastic teachers

Fantastic experience: Thank you Nicole! Passed my driving test with 0 mistakes! Highly recommend!!

Fantastic experience: My daughter had three different instructors for behind the wheel, and each had their own helpful tips and tricks that put her at ease. She just passed her drivers test with a perfect score- thank you for getting her so well prepared!

Fantastic experience: The instruction given at Bakkers is extremely helpful. I recommend choosing Nicole Schmiege as an instructor. I was given great tips for the driving test and had all of my questions answered. Also, I felt very calm and relaxed for the entirety of the lessons. I didn't feel any pressure or stress at all when learning from Nicole. The customer service when calling Bakkers was fantastic as well. The gentleman on the phone was always patient with me, and made sure he did all he could to help out. I would give more stars if I could.

Fantastic experience: Thank you so much for your help Bakkers. My instructor Cheryl helped me a lot. Thank you Nicole for the tips you gave before the test.

Fantastic experience: They helped my husband, age 70, drove trucks for 46 years to make sure he was ready for behind the wheel testing again in his car for license renewal. Extremely professional, very pleasant to work with and we highly recommend them for any driving school needs you may have! Couldn’t have been any better experience.

Fantastic experience: Rykendrick Cohen is the man! Incredible instructor, calm, collected, and very personable. If I could give more stars, I would!

Fantastic experience: Rykendrick Cohen is a phenomenal instructor. He was easy to talk to and really open, and he was an extremely good teacher. He helped me out immensely, and I'm glad that others feel the same way

Fantastic experience: Rykendrick was the best. Got me a pass on my first try. He’s kind, fun to talk to and most importantly he’s patient.

Fantastic experience: Bakker's Driving School is excellent! My two daughters all went with Bakker's and my younger daughter just passed the first time today. Her instructor Ms. Cheryl Peacock is very professional, patient and friendly. The whole driving training is solid and well structured. I highly recommend Cheryl and Bakker's Driving School!

Fantastic experience: Rykendrick Cohen is the absolute best. He was such a great teacher and prepared me so well for my test that I only made one mistake. I 100% recommend him and can surely tell you you will not regret it.

Fantastic experience: You need to get Rye kendrick i think hes one of the chillest driving instructors out there and easy to talk to

Fantastic experience: Great driving school. My 3 kids all went with Bakkers and all passed the first time. The instructors at Bakkers are professional, patient and friendly. Pricing is reasonable and no hidden cost.

Negative experience: It's really outdated. Only a few questions on the Bakkers test were on the actual test.

Fantastic experience: Rykendrick Cohen was my choice throughout the Bakker’s Driving School. It all started when my friends suggested him and described as funny, outgoing, and extremely helpful. He exceeded my expectations! He was always on time and not once had a smile vanish from his face. He taught me incredibly well and I would not have passed my test the first time without Rykendrick being by my side the entire time. As a teacher he was very straight up and told me exactly where I flawed, but his enthusiasm and satisfactory when I did anything correct is what kept me going the entire time. I am very lucky to call him my instructor. He was the best and I suggest you choose him quick because his slots run out really quickly!

Fantastic experience: Oh man. Mr Rykendrick Cohen is amazing! Its true when they say that hes good at boosting your confidence. The shy kid like me couldn’t have asked for a better teacher. He drills you when you don’t do something right (which only helps you grow) as well as shower you with praise when you do something right. You finish every driving class with a deep sense of accomplishment. -Bibin Sibi

Fantastic experience: Our experience with Bakker's Driving School has been nothing but wonderful and Rykendrick Cohen is the absolute best driving instructor you could ask for! Our son was a very timid driver when he first started out and didn't feel confident to get out on the road. We were fortunate enough to have Rykendrick as his driving instructor and we honestly hit gold! Rykendrick is incredibly professional and so friendly and personable that our son instantly built a bond with him. After their very first lesson together, our son came back home with a whole new level of confidence and excitement about driving. He learned so much about what good drivers need to do, but it was all done in a very calm and nurturing environment. It is natural for new drivers to feel overwhelmed and scared when they begin, but Rykendrick put our son at ease, made him feel safe and capable, and gave him the tools he needs to get on the road. We will honestly never be able to let Rykendrick know just how much we appreciate him and all of the love and care he put into teaching our son, but we are forever grateful!

Fantastic experience: I wish there is a 10 star option cause that's the rate I wanted to give to this driving school. 1. I like their convenient working hours. They also are flexible about schedule appointments. 2. The staffs are easy, friendly, and professional. My kid felt very comfortable with the staffs. 3. They work really hard to get your kids pass the drive test!!! My kid didn't pass the drive test initially. I contacted them. The owner came to give another 2 hours free lesson for my kid. They even offered instructor Cheryl to take my kid to the actual drive test on the test day! It helped! 4. I had referred several friends' kids to this driving school. They all liked it:-) I highly recommend this driving school.

Fantastic experience: Jonessa was fantastic! Actually, every instructor we have had come to the house for driving lessons has been friendly, and my daughters have had good things to say! Both girls passed their Driving Tests on their first attempt!! Will be using Bakkers Driving School for our next driver in training.

Fantastic experience: My son was quite nervous about his first driving class and by luck of the draw was placed with Christine who he states was wonderful and really made him feel comfortable and confident in his driving training. I will difinitely request Christine for his future driving courses.

Fantastic experience: We had a wonderful experience with Bakker. They were very professional and supportive of every question I had- and I had many. Janessa worked well with my daughter and made her feel confident and comfortable behind the wheel. I liked the ease of signing her up with many opportunities for days and times. I would definitely recommend Bakker Driving School!

Fantastic experience: our guy was so funny! the two hours flew by and my son got a ton of driving experience all over SD!

Fantastic experience: Paul was very good with my son, and he took the time to stay after and explain what he taught him during the session.

Negative experience: Why isn't no star an option?. We prescheduled and prepaid for two 2 hour lessons with Bakker and both times, they were over an hour late. The first lesson was at 5:30 after school, the UBER / UBER Eats car shows up around 6:30 (draw your own conclusions). There was no messaging other than the initial he would be 15' late and the lesson actually less than 2 hours. The 2nd lesson was scheduled for 4:00pm yesterday (Sunday) and it was worse (yes it's possible). He first messaged that he would be 20' late. We later discovered that the phone he messaged from was not even his, but a 3rd party! Whaaat? Yes we pinged that phone and someone else answered and said the driver used his phone. He apparently doesn't carry a phone with him. OMG - but her driver test is this week so our options are pretty limited. Then he calls and says he returned to Escondido because he didn't see anyone and entered our complex, wearing his Bakker jacket , and walked all over. She waited out there for him until 5:00 so the veracity of this I am not certain of. We live in what amounts to a glass house and I am pretty sure we would have seen a man wearing a Bakker driving jacket who looked like he didn't live in the complex. Anyway, he returns with a mobile phone and finally arrives at 6:30 - two and a half hours after the scheduled appointment. IN BRIEF, the drivers for BDS have NO (NONE, ZILCH) respect for our time - completely UNPROFESSIONAL. And no they did not offered any adjustment to the cost. BUYER BEWARE.

Fantastic experience: My 17-year old daughter wanted a female instructor, so we selected Christine. Just as her bio states, Christine is gentle and patient! She provides just the right mixture of nurturing instruction and fun. She would be wonderful for any teenage girl, and no doubt for boys too. The staff at Bakkers are very pleasant and flexible about setup and scheduling. So in summary, I recommend Bakkers without hesitation. (This is definitely not the case with all driving schools. We've had poor experiences elsewhere.)

Positive experience: I took my first lesson Yesterday with Jenessa, she was awesome and I had the confidence again to drive the car, she is smart, and teaches me some techniques I could use them and you can see the passion of what she is doing

Fantastic experience: My sister passed her behind the wheel test, thanks to J.R. Jones, driving instructor! His lesson, along with his awesome personality really helped my sister learn to be a safe and confident driver. Many kudos to him. Would highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: Excellent service! The instructor did an amazing job!

Negative experience: Paul has been awesome with my daughter. Very kind and patient, I definitely recommend him⭐️

Positive experience: Well, when Paul came to our house, he came in an unmarked car that had a big dent in the front from an accident, or something. He had trash throughout the inside of his car and a car seat in the back. He looked like he just got up. I had to ask his name because I had to make sure he was actually from Bakkers. I thought for sure the car would have some kind of logo on it. Nothing. This was my daughter's first lesson. We live by Lake Wohlford and I asked him not to let my daughter drive down Lake Wohlford Rd on her first lesson. He said okay. My husband and I needed to go to Escondido, so we left a few minutes after Paul and my daughter. Lo and behold, at the first pull out, there was Paul's car off the road and he and my daughter were switching places. He had her drive down Lake Wohlford Rd! Then I found out from my daughter that she drove on the Freeway. Since when does the first lesson include the freeway? And then I found out he was TEXTING while she was driving. So I paid $20 more for this lesson than Palomar Driving School. Sorry Paul, you lost my trust , and business. My daughter wants another teacher and now she will have to do her first lesson, again...at Palomar. Had two kids do them before. Very satisfied. Less expensive. Much more professional. So they don't go to Lake Wohlford. Heck, I can take my daughter to the closest pick up at Citrus and Valley Parkway.

Fantastic experience: This is a great driving school! There are lots of choices when it comes to driving schools, but we have been very pleased in every way with Bakkers. The testing modules are very helpful and come complete with timers so you always know where you are in the process. The driving instructor that we had (Paul) was just fantastic! Paul was very patient and kind with our daughter and he gave her many useful tips and she came away from the lesson with a lot more confidence. We highly recommend Bakkers.

Fantastic experience: Paul is a great instructor. My son says he is cool to drive with. He is calm and teaches well. He doesn't make him nervous.

Fantastic experience: Paul is a great instructor - he made my daughter feel comfortable and relaxed. He also covered all of the tasks they will have to perform. He gave feedback after the lesson and let her know what to work on. All of the people I have dealt with in the office are extremely helpful and responsive as well.

Fantastic experience: Had a very good experience with Paul would highly recommend. Just before first lesson my son got stingray sting and we were dealing with it as instructor arrived. Paul was so nice totally understood that he couldn't do lesson and I was so impressed that although instructor arrived to our house they did not charge. We have since had two lessons all went really well, while out on one lesson our friend spotted them and he was impressed how they were driving.

Fantastic experience: The did a good job and it was easy. They show up and go. My 16 year old son enjoyed learning from them and the instructors could relate to him. They covered the basics and what was needed to pass the test. Im not sure how much advanced stuff and safety they covered.

Fantastic experience: We used Bakker's Driving School for both kids. They are professional, on time, and provided great feedback. I would recommend them.

Fantastic experience: 2 of our kids used Bakker's. Jonathan was a great instructor!

Fantastic experience: We have used Bakkers Driving School for our 5 sons, this last time for our Youngest boy. Always been a great experience for them, Sam came and picked up Derrik and gave him a great lesson and was very professional and friendly. Keep up the good work !

Fantastic experience: My daughter has had two lessons with Jonathan. He has been punctual, professional and very helpful. We will definitely use Bakkers again.

Fantastic experience: Good.

Fantastic experience: Have used Bakkers with 2 daughters. They are professional and easy to work with. Janessa is Incredible!!

Fantastic experience: Sam and Rod were great teachers. I passed my test with flying colors!

Fantastic experience: I took behind the wheel instruction from Bob last week and passed my behind the wheel driving test on Tuesday 03/07/17. Thanks to Bob I had no difficulty in demonstrating different driving skills to the DMV tester. Bob's instruction is very practical, focused and easy to follow.

Negative experience: Unimpressed with the professionalism of the staff. I scheduled behind-the- wheel lessons (over the phone) for my 16 yr old. Woman was unfriendly and not very helpful. I expressed my interest in scheduling the same instr (one referred by a friend) for all 3 lessons, and was told it would not be a problem. After the 1st lesson, I was told our instr was no longer working. The 2nd instr did not come at the scheduled time. When I initially scheduled over the phone, I was told the number was good for questions and/or rescheduling., so I called to inquire why the instructor was late. It was a Sunday.-My call was answered by a recording that asked me to continue holding, but then disconnected my call. I called repeatedly, but was disconnected every time. I finally tyoed a message on their website. An instr arrived 30 min late in an unmarked car. I was skeptical about sending my 16 yr old with him, and asked him to contact his company. He promptly phoned his manager, who responded only with his first name, did not mention the name of the company, and never apologized for the error in scheduling. He told me the instructor was a certified instr., but when I asked to see the certification, he said it was at the office. The instructor at my door was polite, but I was uncomfortable with the lack of organization. I did not go forward with the lesson.