
Bud's Driver Rider Education (formerly A-LDRE)

Information about Bud's Driver Rider Education (formerly A-LDRE)
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Learn to drive and/or ride with us! Veteran and teacher owned, small family business. Our instructors are like our family, so you can trust they will be the best! We run 6 days a week (3 classes) of motorcycle training from April - October. Driver's Ed has no waiting list and class starts every 2 weeks - year round! Sign up now - or email me with questions!
Our comment from DrivingSchools.Directory about Bud's Driver Rider Education (formerly A-LDRE):
At Bud's Driver Rider Education, also known as A-LDRE, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional instruction and a supportive learning environment for new and experienced riders alike. Our team of knowledgeable instructors, including the highly praised Tony, Monica, Justin, and Tim, are dedicated to making the learning process enjoyable and efficient. Many students have left our program with their motorcycle licenses in hand, feeling confident and well-prepared.
Some of the highlights of our program include:
- Experienced Instructors: Our instructors are highly regarded for their clear communication, patience, and personalized feedback, ensuring that every student feels comfortable and engaged.
- Inclusive Environment: We foster a respectful atmosphere where students of all backgrounds can learn together without fear of judgment, helping to build confidence among all participants.
- Hands-on Learning: Students can expect a practical approach to riding, which allows them to practice skills early on and progress at a comfortable pace.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Our well-structured courses cover essential riding techniques and safety practices, making them suitable for learners of varying experience levels.
While most feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, some users have noted concerns about scheduling and the pace of classes for absolute beginners. We are constantly striving to balance the needs of all students and appreciate the feedback that helps us improve. Overall, Bud's Driver Rider Education is highly recommended by those who have passed through its doors, making it a great choice for anyone looking to gain riding skills and obtain their motorcycle endorsement!
Bud's Driver Rider Education (formerly A-LDRE): Reviews
Fantastic experience: Tony was great. As A experienced rider I still learned a lot. Left with my motorcycle license in hand. Very satisfied!!
Fantastic experience: Monica and Justin were amazing! Knowledgeable, personable, funny, and fair instructors. As bad as I hated burning a whole weekend, they made it enjoyable! It was great to meet them, and the others in my class. I honestly felt like we all made a bit of a connection during the class. I highly recommend Bud's Driving school and if you're lucky enough, you'll get Monica and Justin!! Thank you again for such a pleasant experience! If I could give 10 stars I would!
Fantastic experience: Steve and Doc were excellent instructors. They explained everything clearly and made the material easy to understand. They also provided valuable tips and constructive feedback throughout the course. Both were professional and personable—I highly recommend Bud's Driving School.
Fantastic experience:
Fantastic experience: I was so impressed with my daughter's instructor, Tim. He was calm, informative and an all around amazing instructor. I would recommend this place to everyone.
Fantastic experience: My son has recently completed his driving instruction hours Bud's Driver Rider Education - formerly ALDRE with Tim. I wanted to drop you a note to share our impressions of Tim. Tim is an amazing driving instructor. He has a great balance of professionalism while still “connecting” with his students. He is knowledgeable, articulate, safe and experienced. We are so happy that Korban had Tim as his driving instructor. My son came away from his lessons with knowledge, experience and most of all, confidence. Thanks to Tim. And thanks to Jen @Bud’s, she runs a great program!
Fantastic experience: Had the pleasure of taking a class with Tony! Our group was small just five riders with a mix of experience levels, from total beginners to riders with over 10 years under their belt (but no endorsement). We spent two full days covering the basics, starting with hands-on practice on the bike (engine off) to learn all the controls. By the end of Day 1, everyone was riding confidently. Day 2 focused on the skills needed to pass the exam, and by 11 AM we were off to the BMV with our course completion certificates in hand! Would recommend to anyone looking to just get the experience needed and also get their license in the simplest way possible.
Fantastic experience: Very straight forward and knowledgeable instructors. Great atmosphere. Good props and course. Very proffesiinal.
Fantastic experience: Tony was a great instructor, the class was amazing and fun. Definitely worth it.
Fantastic experience: Tony was a great guy and a great teacher.
Fantastic experience: Quick motorcycle endorsement course. I had the pleasure of learning from Monica & Anibal! They were amazing instructors, so down to earth and really helped build us up as riders. There were all skill levels in the class, and I had a great time hanging out with everyone. All the students were so positive & encouraging and no one made anybody feel stupid or inadequate. I honestly can't say enough good things about Monica & Anibal! If you're looking for a course take buds and definitely sign up for weekend classes (those instructors work weekends). Be safe out there and remember! "Ride your own ride".
Fantastic experience: I fear that anyone who doesn't have Tim as their teacher is missing out. He teaches students of all ages, including those with mental impairments. Because of this his level of patience is not only respectable but also impressive. I hope other instructors take note of Tim's teaching style. When I first met Tim for my driving lessons, he greeted me with a kind smile that lessened my nerves. As he explained the controls of the vehicle, his positive and supportive attitude became evident. Despite my initial nervousness about learning to drive, I felt comfortable and eager to get on the road thanks to his support. That same unwavering support made the entire learning process a breeze.
Fantastic experience: I just wanted to give a shout-out to your instructor, Tim. He was absolutely amazing with my daughter. This was her first lesson with him, and it was an incredibly positive experience. Tim is super knowledgeable and knows his stuff inside and out. He patiently guided her through the basics of driving and helped her conquer her fear of parallel parking. His innovative techniques and clear explanations made the learning process enjoyable and effective. I was especially impressed with Tim's attention to detail. He provided valuable insights into the road test, including common mistakes and tips for success. His guidance was instrumental in helping her feel confident and prepared for the road test. Beyond the lesson itself, what really impressed me was how supportive Tim was. He went with us to the BMV and stayed with me while she took her test. He was so calm and positive, which really helped us all relax. We are extremely grateful for Tim's quality of instruction and care. We couldn't be happier with our experience. Thanks for having such a great instructor on your team! P.S. She passed her road test thanks to Tim's fantastic instruction!
Fantastic experience: My daughter's instructor, Tim, was always right on time for each scheduled drive, had great communication with her for scheduling, and was courteous, professional, and helpful. I felt very comfortable with my daughter going on drives with him. He explained all the processes very well, and answered all of my questions. The drives were completed sooner than I anticipated, which was great. I thought the "parent drive" was especially helpful. He clearly knows his stuff—I also learned a thing or two! He was very patient and calm, and anticipated questions we didn't even think to ask but should. He's a great instructor!
Negative experience: BEGINNERS READ: I started with no experience, I have never ridden any sort of motorcycle before. I emailed the owner of the program asking if there was another step I should take before jumping into the BRC. She (owner, a woman named Jennifer) told me the class was exactly what I was looking for. I completed the ecourse, showed up at the course and was excited to begin. I was the only one without prior experience, there were a couple who had limited experience that made me feel more comfortable. Everyone seemed nice, the instructors aren't bad people. However, if this is your first time riding, do not sign up for this course. Please. You will have much better luck looking for a cheap dirt bike first and once you have practiced enough sign up for the BRC. I have seen many bikes on facebook marketplace with little to no issues selling for as low as $500. If you are anxious to get your license you can attempt it and hope for the best. Maybe you will do great. But if you are just starting I wouldn't recommend it at all. The instructors don't work with you, they can't spend time on you individually because they are always on a time crunch and focused on teaching the other 9 people that will be in your class. I asked several times for advice on how to fix the small mistakes I kept making. Most of the time I just got "You are on the bike, you figure it out". If it wasn't me asking a question, they'd just yell over and over. That's how they explain things. They say "do this" but they don't explain WHY you should do it. If you are a hands on learner and work better at your own pace don't do this course. They cram everything into the first day and if you don't do it perfectly or close to perfectly, they WILL kick you out end of day 1. Also, for anyone who isn't a cis white guy, you will be laughed at and humiliated. Your peers there won't help you either. Most of them laugh and talk about you when you aren't standing there. Some of them straight up insult you without caring. Their policy is "riding isn't for everyone, better to find out on the course blah blah.." You could argue that is true. Riding certainly isn't for everyone. That's why not everyone takes the course. That's why not everyone in interested in motorcycles. That's why people choose cars over bikes. But I don't believe there is anyone on this planet that is NOT capable of riding. Anyone who wants to can do it. But don't start here. That's not what they believe nor is it what they encourage. These guys don't teach, they instruct. Save yourself the day of being let down. You can ride. You can do it. But don't waste your money here unless you grew up on dirt bikes since you were a kid like most of the others in the class. Spend that 400 on a cheap bike. Practice on private property. Then go and get that damn endorsement. Screw anyone who tries to tell you that you cannot ride. You can. Riding is for everyone.
Fantastic experience: Excellent course for new riders mine was taught by Issac and Steve. I had a great time,learned a lot, and was able to get my license by the second day
Fantastic experience: As a long time rider, but inactive for some time, I signed up for the basic riders course to work on fundamental safe riding skills. The instructors were excellent. Patient, easy going but always in control. Instructions were thorough, demonstrations followed, close supervision of new riders was always in place. Questions were always answered. I pulled myself out of the program when I realized there was other work I needed to do before completing the entire course. At no time was I pressured to do so. In fact, the instructor's reaction to my struggling with some exercises was to assist and coach. Really good people and an excellent learning environment for new and experienced riders. I will get my issues sorted out and try again with Bud's.
Thank you so much for your thoughtfulness and taking the time to post your good experience!
Fantastic experience: This school is phenomenal! Whether you're a hands on learner, verbal learner, or a textbook learner, they cover every learning style by reading through, talking through, showing through and letting you practice through EVERYTHING and won't give up on you no matter what! As a young woman, who is in multiple types of traditionally men-dominated hobbies, I found them to be very respectful, and they didn't talk down to me at all. They are funny, knowledgeable and skilled. I highly recommend this motorcycle course
Thank you so much for taking the time to write about your positive experience!
Fantastic experience: The 2 BRC class was awesome. The instructors that I had (Steve and Tony) were great. They taught me so many skills and gave me the confidence to trust my skills and the motorcycle! They were always ready to answer questions and give me the extra help I needed to succeed. I would highly recommend this class.
Thank you for taking them time to leave kind words! I’m so glad you enjoyed your class!
Fantastic experience: I highly recommend this motorcycle endorsement class. U learn so many neat practices in safer riding, and ways to balance your bike effectively at slow speeds. My experience here was awesome, and my instructor Steve Miller did his best to make sure everyone was comfortable and safe
Fantastic experience: This is a great driver's education course. It is run well and was very engaging for my reluctant student driver. The frequency of the classes were helpful in scheduling.
Thank you so much for taking the time to post your positive experience!
Fantastic experience: Instructors are awsome and siper helpful very good with helping everyone that needed it and just all around a great time to learn!!
Fantastic experience: Great place and great instructors!
Thank you so much!
Negative experience: For paying over $500 you can’t get a hold of ANYONE at ANY time. I personally spent quite a few months trying to push through the online portion and then the owner threatens me with assuming I dropped the class, who has another $500 laying around to be taught by a slideshow made in the early 2000s. If you have the option don’t waste your time and money with this circus.
I’m not “threatening” you… just looking for communication. And, as stated in every piece of communication from me, email is the best way to get me. The state sets the time limit, not me :-) It’s by no means a threat, it’s making you fully aware of a state rule that I am mandated to follow when it comes to the timeline. If you don’t reply to any of my messages, then there’s no way for me to know if you are still working, or gave up. I truly wish I was a mind reader… but sadly, I’m not :-( If you’d like to email me at [email protected] with an update on where you are at and if you are ready to take your final, please feel free… just like it said to in my email to you.
Fantastic experience: Took my MSF course last week with Steve M. and Hai. They we're both great guys with a love for teaching, safety, and riding techniques. They both made the whole experience a fun and educational. I'd rate 6/5 if I could!
Thank you so much!
Fantastic experience: I would highly recommend this school for anyone new to motorcycles. The instructors are fantastic. The class itself is immediately hands on as well as very structured. You can go from never having been on a motorcycle to doing maneuvers within the first couple hours and feel confident doing so the way it is taught.
Thank you so much!
Negative experience: Zero stars really should be an option for this driving school. The owner does the least amount of work she can get away with and is really only good at cashing the tuition check. She’s rude and insulting and doesn’t give clear direction or information regarding expectations for completing the class. Admittedly I was frustrated from the start but tried to communicate with the owner respectfully. Unfortunately she responded with personal attacks, threats and insults comparing my son to a special ed student and me to a Walmart shopper that can’t read. Basically, she’s completely unprofessional and I would not recommend sending any teenager here for drivers ed or anything else. Spend a little more and go to an in person class, the kids will get more accurate information and be able to interact with the instructor. This class is a waste of time and money.
Anyone that actually knows me and has met me knows how horribly inaccurate this is. I will only address the things above that are totally off base, and then I'm done. I've lost enough sleep over this as it is. If anyone wants the FULL story, please reach out. I have everything.
I DID NOT compare him to a special ed student (When you complained about the self-paced, online portion - I stated that one of the benefits of the online program is that it's not rushed, and I've had my own special ed students -I'm a math teacher - tell me how much they enjoyed being able to go back and rewatch and redo as often as they'd like before the test). I did NOT compare you to a Walmart shopper that can't read (I gave $400 of $495 as a refund and she wants the rest - let's just be clear what this is all about - her son completed the orientation and 6 hours of class... I think $400 is fair. I compared THAT to buying your groceries at Walmart and eating some of the food and letting the chicken rot in the fridge for 7 1/2 months... then asking Walmart for a full refund. I refunded the rotten chicken, not the groceries she ate)...
I didn't say you couldn't read - I said you DIDN'T read - as all information is sent via email (so that I have time-stamped proof for you). You didn't read any emails sent, you didn't read anything in the folder you were given, and you didn't listen during the orientation where all of your issued were discussed and communicated. Instead you decided to harp on the fact that we HAVE to talk about donating organs (which is a Maine statute) and my use of the word "cursive" when talking about signatures. Those are the horrible inaccurate pieces of information she's talking about.
Nice job mixing several emails to try to defame me.
Fantastic experience: Hai and Steve are great motorcycle instructors and know their stuff, as well as very kind people. Wouldn’t recommend going anywhere else because I had a blast, starting off as beginner never riding a bike before this class I finished with no errors during the riding test and passed the written section. I wish there was a more advanced course to improve my skills even more once I purchase a bike.
Thank you so much! We will offer an advanced class, but not this year :-)
Fantastic experience: I highly recommend this company. I took their motorcycle safety course and the instructors were awesome. Very helpful and incredibly knowledgeable. They made the class fun and informative. The equipment was in great shape, and the range is laid out very well.
Thank you!
Fantastic experience: Jason and Tony made the class really enjoyable. Both really technical people and I had a blast not only getting my motorcycle license but learning a ton. Remarkable some of the people they teach go from not even using a clutch in their life to doing maneuvers around the lot safely in just two days. Definitely recommend them.
Thank you so so much!
Fantastic experience: We chose ALDRE for drivers ed for our teen specifically because it was self-paced, with some virtual sessions. School doesn't come easy for some, and having the ability to be available to support them during their learning when needed was key for us. ALDRE was very communicative, and sent frequent emails and reminders to make sure kids stayed on track. Driving sessions were scheduled quickly and my child felt very at-ease with the instructor. Would definitely recommend to anyone needing driver's ed!
Thank you so much! The self-paced program has really helped a lot of kids! With different school, work, sports, and family schedules it’s really helped kids to NOT miss classes… and with different learning styles and abilities, this is a great thing! Students are able to go back and replay, relearn, etc. as many times as they need to - something that is not always able to be done in the “traditional” classroom setting!
Fantastic experience: I went through the motorcycle course. The instructors were great. I went in with a decent amount of experience but I still learned a lot. I recently joined the military and when I needed information from the course I had taken a year ago, for some of my paperwork, they took the time to look up my information in their records. Saved me from having to take a military led class on top of my regular training.
Thank you so much!! So glad I could be helpful!
Fantastic experience: Hello, I feel inclined to email our compliments to Gwen’s driving instructor Rob. He is amazing and a true asset to your school. I was so impressed with his clear, thorough, calm instruction. Gwen had a wonderful experience. Thank you
Thank you so much! He IS amazing, for SURE!
Fantastic experience: Toni and Diana were awesome instructors. I was a little nervous but they helped me to feel very comfortable. The practical skills were so helpful. The classroom information was great. They communicated well and I felt so good after the class was done.
Two of the best right there!
Fantastic experience: I took the 2-day motorcycle course and it was awesome Tony and Hi were great instructors. I've been riding since the course almost every day now for a month and putting into use so many of the things they taught. Keep up the great work. Thanks!
Thank you so much!!
Fantastic experience: This was my first time on a motorcycle in over 10 years and the instructors were great. Tony and Steve patiently and diligently went through the each exercise giving tips and excellent coaching when necessary. I cannot recommend this course enough if you are looking to learn to ride or just learn new skills
Thank you so much!!! They are truly amazing instructors!
Negative experience: NO REFUNDS being mentioned in every sentence should have been a giveaway but i gave them a chance, BIG MISTAKE. I paid for the class and followed the instructions by immediately sending "bud" my receipt from their dodgy website. There was no bud instead, an extremely incompetent and unprofessional Jen waited til my reservation date had passed to respond. Needless to say I called my bank and got a refund. THIS PLACE IS A SCAM
This is Jen… what are you talking about?!?! I’ve been out of town since Thursday. Bud was my dad. I took over after he passed away and don’t have the heart to change the address… what is your name? I can look you up… because the name above is not on my roster. I give refunds with a 14 day notice… but not to people that don’t show up. Please clarify so I can help.
Fantastic experience: This past week I successfully completed LDRE's Basic Rider Course in Turner, and the next morning I received my Motorcycle Endorsement from the BMV. LDRE and its Ridercoaches provide a well run and designed instructional course. Tony and Stephen were great Ridercoaches. They presented the material and exercises in a way that was understandable and helpful for the entire, mixed group. They were sensitive to different skill levels and learning styles. LDRE helped me to refresh old skills and learn new ones. I will be a better and safer rider after taking this course. I heartily endorse the Basic Rider Course!
Thank you so much!! A-LDRE appreciates you! Have a great weekend! Ride safe!
Negative experience: Scheduled for today - driver was no call no show! I emailed school, telling them i refuse to pay for nothing. Texted driver after waiting over 20 minutes after scheduled time, said it was unacceptable.. Had "excuse" of being sick and wrote down wrong day. I then texted back stating "Services no longer needed, hope you feel better. Driver then texted back stating: "You really should get an explanation before going off on me...". Really!!! I'm paying for a service that was a no show! I should not have to track down the driver. Never going to use!!!! Ridiculous.
It wasn’t an “excuse” - she was THROWING UP for three days! (As stated in a PRIVATE email to you). She made a mistake. She’s human! I hope people treat you better when you make a mistake! We can’t all be perfect 100% of the time! Geez! I’m sorry to sound rude or unprofessional… but I’m so sick of keyboard warriors. A little kindness and understanding can go a long way in life. Have a great day!
Fantastic experience: The course and instructors were great, Hai and Steven made the course fun while effectively teaching us how to stay relaxed and alert and ride safely. Not new to riding but was still able to pick up quite a bit of new knowledge and skills throughout the course and develop my confidence and recognize where I need more practice. I highly recommend this location for your MSF needs.
Thank you so much!!!!
Fantastic experience: These people are great!
Thank you!!
Fantastic experience: These guys are great. They take the course seriously, communicate expectations clearly and make it fun!
Thank you!!
Fantastic experience: The first day is done! Instructors are amazing and we jumped into riding quickly. Perfect for hands-on learners. The motorcycles are extremely nice too. Completed the course and it was a blast. The instructors were very knowledgeable and helpful. They want you to succeed.
Thank you!!
Fantastic experience: Awesome brc program, Steve, hai, and Jason were great instructors, all very knowledgeable, friendly, and communicated well with us students!! Great experience overall, and I learned a lot more then I thought I would!! Ty ALL SO MUCH!!
Thank you!!
Negative experience: STAY AWAY FROM THESE SCAM ARTIST!!!! My daughter paid $350 for the 2 day class and they kicked her out in the first 4 hours!!! They kept her money and and said she could retry again at full price!! This is a course for beginner riders but they move at a fast pace to keep the money train rolling. They have zero patients for new riders and will arbitrarily kick people out and steal their hard earned money!!!!! STAY FAR AWAY!! SCAMMERS!!
I'm so sorry you feel this way. Unfortunately $350 doesn't guarantee a license. Not everyone is cut our for riding. Yes, you are correct, there is no refund. We cannot give money back for everyone that doesn't pass. You are paying for the spot in the class, not the license. The course is a state mandated curriculum that every school uses. The pace is set by the state/curriculum, not our instructors. There is no "money train" affected by the pace. It's a 2 day class. We can't put people through any faster than that... that wouldn't be safe! We very rarely council people out on the first day - though if they are that big of a safety risk, sometimes we have no choice... and sometimes students decide on their own it's not for them. There is nothing arbitrary about what we do. We follow a very strict curriculum, give lots of one on one attention when needed, and give LOTS of riding time to practice. Definitely better to find out on a closed range that this might not be a good fit, rather than on an open road and find out with your life. Our number one goal is student safety. We are not in the business of handing out licenses to those that could hurt themselves just because they paid $350. I hope that once you take a breath and think about this, you realize we were just looking out for her safety.
Fantastic experience: The instructors are very knowledgable, the curriculum is thorough and well organized. I highly recommend this class.
Thank you so much!
Fantastic experience: Very safe and very professional. Gloria and Chris were awesome! I walked on to the rangethe first day with ZERO experience and walked off it two days later with an understanding of the basics and what to do on a motorcycle should anything arise. I would recommend this course to ANYONE who wants to earn their endorsement.
Thank you!!!
Fantastic experience: Hai led a great BRC class! I would definitely recommend to others!
Hai is AWESOME!
Fantastic experience: First day was awesome! We were put on the bikes sooner than expected which was good for me as I am a tactile learner. The instructors were 11/10! Great people! Can't wait for tomorrow!
Yay!!! Thank you so much!! We are always looking for enthusiastic instructors, now that you’ve had your license two years!! ;-)
Fantastic experience: Went through this school to become a coach and the staff is just great.
Thank you so much!!!!
Fantastic experience: awesome class
Thank you!!! We are always looking for enthusiastic instructors!!! ;-)
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