BBB issues warnings on driving schools

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - Driving school complaints are on the rise nationwide. So before you send your child off in a car with a perfect stranger, Call 12 for Action has tips on the questions you should ask.

According to the Better Business Bureau (BBB) , not all schools get passing grades. The BBB advises, that when considering a driving school for your teen, your first stop should be checking with the department of motor vehicles to make sure the schools' you're considering teach the necessary requirements and most importantly that the driving school operators and instructors are properly licensed-

Just in the past 2 years the BBB received more than 700 complaints against driving schools nationwide , so before signing on with a driving school there are a few things you should ask.

That's because no-show instructors, bad customer service and shady sales practices are some of the top complaints at the BBB when it comes to driving schools... So check it out. Look up the driving schools grade on the BBB's website

Ask around: Call several schools to find out about course schedules and fees. And ask about class and behind the wheel lessons.

"Make sure that its 50/50, meaning you're in actually doing work inside learning and your out the other 50% driving." advises Paula Fleming, a spokesperson from the Better Business Bureau

And visit the driving school. If you can, observe part of a course and ask to see the course book to make sure the text is up to date.

Teens have busy lives and summer vacations can also get in the way of regular attendance -- so ask what the school's policy is on missed classes or make-up session and possible refunds. Don't be afraid to ask the school for some references before you give them the green light.

While your teen will likely want the fastest route possible, the shortest driving school course may not be the best either. And remember, price is not the sole factor in choosing a driving school, you must compare instructional quality, class size and behind the wheel lessons.