Home About
Greenville, SC driving school focused on patient teaching
We’ve helped over 1,800 South Carolina teens and new drivers. As an SCDMV-certified testing facility, we provide a stress-free road test experience, saving you from long DMV lines.
Home About
WHAT DRIVES US
Our Mission
At Drive Smart Academy, our mission is to provide cutting-edge, comprehensive driver education that empowers students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to navigate the road responsibly. We go beyond mere test preparation, fostering a generation of safe, skilled drivers ready to handle the diverse challenges of real-world driving.
2023
Year we opened
1,800+
Students trained
30+
Google reviews
98%
98% of our students pass their DMV road test on their first attempt. Our comprehensive training, expert instructors, and focus on safety ensure students are fully prepared to become confident, responsible drivers.
We are committed to:
- Complete Driver Education
- Promoting Safe Habits
- Prioritizing Safety
- Real-World Preparedness
- Building Confidence
- Individualized Support
- Hands-On Practice
- Lifelong Skills
- Leveraging Technology
- Community Safety
- Engaging Curriculum
- Commitment to Excellence
HOW WE TEACH
The S.M.A.R.T. Philosophy
At Drive Smart Academy, our goal isn't simply to help students pass a test. We want to help create safe, confident, responsible drivers for life. Learn S.M.A.R.T. , Drive S.M.A.R.T. , Be S.M.A.R.T.
WHERE WE ARE HEADED
Our Vision
We envision a future where every driver on the road is equipped with the knowledge, confidence, and skills necessary to drive safely, regardless of conditions or challenges. Our aim is to transform driver education by embracing innovation and making the learning process more accessible, enjoyable, and efficient.
We aspire to:
Be a Leader in Driving Education
We want to be recognized as the foremost provider of driving education, known for our innovative approach, expert instructors, and high standards of training.
Promote a Culture of Road Safety
We aim to contribute to a safer driving culture by reducing accidents and promoting responsible driving behavior through our students.
Use Innovation to Shape the Future
With smart cars and autonomous driving advancing quickly, we adapt our training to keep pace - so students are comfortable with the latest technologies.
Expand Our Reach Globally
As we grow, our vision is to expand beyond our local community, bringing our smart drive training approach to learners worldwide and contributing to a global culture of safe driving.
MEET OUR TEAM
Patient, highly trained, and fully certified
JaCinda Smith
Lead instructor & Owner
Certified third-party examiner. JaCinda teaches the permit tutoring class and takes on the students who arrive most nervous about driving.
Onesha
Driver Instructor & Administrative Specialist
Onesha provides patient, encouraging instruction to help students build confidence, strengthen their skills, and develop safe driving habits.
GREENVILLE'S PREMIER DRIVING SCHOOL
Why Choose Us?
Innovative Training Methods
We utilize the latest smart driving technologies to enhance your learning experience, including driving simulators, real-time feedback systems, and tailored lesson plans.
Experienced Instructors
Our team consists of highly trained, certified instructors who are passionate about teaching and committed to ensuring each student's success.
Tailored Learning Approach
We recognize that every student learns differently. Our personalized approach ensures that each driver gets the attention and guidance they need to succeed.
CREDENTIALS YOU CAN CHECK
Licensed, insured, and state approved
Our curriculum is approved by the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, and every instructor carries a current state driver-training certification.
Ask us about credentials-
SC DMV certified third-party tester
Authorized to administer the South Carolina road test at our Greenville location.
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State-approved driver education curriculum
Classroom and behind-the-wheel hours meet SC requirements for the 8-hour and 30-hour programs.
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Fully insured dual-control fleet
Commercial coverage on every training vehicle, with documentation available on request.
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Background-checked instructors
Every instructor clears a background check and first-aid training before teaching a student.
WHAT FAMILIES SAY
Rated 4.9 out of 5 by more than 300 families
Stefanie Thompson
4 months ago
★★★★★
✓
My son completed the class in June and it exceeded my expectations. He was picked up and dropped off at home for his driving lessons. He was also…
Latasha Brewton
5 months ago
★★★★★
✓
Had a great experience with Drive smart academy. Jacinda is so patient with the students and very encouraging. She kept me very informed on my kid's progress and…
Rachel Ulrey
4 months ago
★★★★★
✓
I loved this driving school! My daughter took their class and the driving test with them as well. The owner is so fun and personable. I emailed quite…
Danee Frederick
9 months ago
★★★★★
✓
My daughter took the class in December. The class exceed our expectations. She was picked up from her school three different times to take her driving lesson classes.…
Abby
a year ago
★★★★★
✓
My daughter had a wonderful experience with Smart Drive Academy. The instructor was patient, professional, and made her feel comfortable and confident behind the wheel. We also tried…
Mariyanna Ramsey
7 months ago
★★★★★
✓
I love drive smart academy! I was so nervous never been on the road ever and drive smart helped me so much! So kind and patient.
Danee Frederick
8 months ago
★★★★★
✓
My daughter took the class in December. The class exceeded our expectations. She was picked up from her school three different times.
Mohd Abdul Wali
5 months ago
★★★★★
✓
It was a wonderful experience. The instructor helped me improve and explained things I did not know. I highly recommend them.
Dakotah Casciano
4 months ago
★★★★★
✓
I couldn’t have picked a better driving school to go through! I’ve always had major anxiety when it came to driving on the road.
BEFORE YOU ENROLL
Questions parents ask us first
Do I need a learner’s permit before I can start driving lessons?
Yes. You must have a valid learner’s permit before beginning behind-the-wheel training. If you don’t have your permit yet, Drive Smart Academy offers Permit Tutoring to help you prepare.
Do you offer permit tutoring?
Yes! Our Permit Tutoring is $60 and is designed to help students understand the material and prepare for the South Carolina permit test.
How many hours are required in South Carolina?
The state requires 8 hours of classroom instruction and 6 hours behind the wheel for driver education. Our packages meet or exceed both.
Can I take my permit test at Drive Smart Academy?
Yes. We are able to administer the permit test onsite for eligible students. Contact our office for current testing requirements and availability.
What should I bring to my driving appointment?
Bring your valid learner’s permit and any other documents requested when your appointment is scheduled. Wear comfortable clothing and appropriate closed-toe shoes for driving.
Do you offer lessons for adults?
We do. Refresher lessons are popular with adults returning to driving after years off the road, and with new residents converting a license.
Do you offer pickup and drop-off?
Pickup/drop-off availability depends on the service. Please confirm the meeting location when scheduling your appointment rather than assuming transportation is included.
Do you work with nervous or anxious drivers?
Yes! We understand that learning to drive can be intimidating. Our goal is to provide patient, structured instruction while helping students develop confidence and safe driving habits.
What if my student needs more practice after Driver’s Ed?
No problem! Additional behind-the-wheel training can be purchased in 2-, 4-, or 6-hour options.
Still have a question?
Contact Us
Call us at (864) 775-7522 or send a message and we will get back within one business day.