Business Details
45 Years
experience
Trusted Driving Education in Ottawa Since 1981
DTSM Driving Schools has been a trusted leader in driver education since 1981, dedicated to transforming how students learn through our innovative 'Where Learning is Doing' approach. Founded by Chris Dougherty, a seasoned instructor with decades of experience, we combine online and in-vehicle training to prioritize student success. Our Ministry-approved BDE courses meet Ontario's highest standards, offering flexible digital programs and personalized training techniques. As a family-owned business, we emphasize defensive driving, safety, and accessibility, serving Ottawa and surrounding areas.Our graduates benefit from MTO-certified programs that accelerate licensing timelines and potential insurance discounts. With over 40 years of heritage, we remain committed to fostering responsible drivers through comprehensive curricula covering road rules, risk management, and practical skills. Our reputation as Ottawa's #1 driving school reflects our dedication to quality education and community impact.
Services
Online Driver Education
Private In-Vehicle Lessons
Road Test Preparation
Certification Courses
Personalized Training
Details
- Year established: 1981
Highlights and features
- We've been Ottawa's #1 driving school since 1981
- Ministry-approved BDE Course Provider status
- Our graduates may qualify for insurance rate reductions
- Specialize in defensive driving attitude development
- Offer local pickup/drop-off for in-vehicle lessons
Associations and certifications
- Ministry of Transportation (MTO)
What people say
Award-winning instructors
Flexible online access
Effective test preparation
Insurance discounts available
Experienced professionals
Services
Online Driver Education
Our Ministry-approved online program offers 20 hours of interactive theory instruction covering road rules, vehicle handling, and risk management. Students access pre-recorded videos and complete homework assignments at their own pace. The course meets MTO standards and prepares drivers for practical training.
Private In-Vehicle Lessons
Ten hours of personalized behind-the-wheel training with professional instructors. Lessons include pick-up/drop-off at home or school locations within service areas. Training focuses on practical skills like emergency response, collision avoidance, and fuel-efficient driving techniques as required by MTO regulations.
Road Test Preparation
Specialized training to prepare students for Ontario's Class G2 Road Test. Instructors focus on defensive driving techniques, road sharing fundamentals, and impairment avoidance strategies. Completion of our program allows testing after 8 months instead of the standard 12 months for G1 license holders.
Certification Courses
MTO-certified programs that electronically register graduates with the Ministry of Transportation. Certification qualifies students for potential insurance discounts and provides a Driver's License History Form. Courses include theory, homework, and practical components meeting provincial standards.
Personalized Training
Tailored training techniques addressing individual learning needs. Instructors adapt lessons to focus on specific areas like perception management, emergency response, or fuel-efficient driving. Programs combine digital learning with practical application to develop safe, competent drivers ready for Ontario's roadways.
People
Chris Dougherty
Founder
Driving industry expert with 60+ years experience. Began career in Liverpool, England (1963) before establishing Ottawa's #1 driving school in 1981. Former Chief Instructor for Ontario's Ministry of Transportation and Algonquin College educator.
Questions
What driver education programs do you offer?
We provide Ministry-approved BDE courses combining 20 hours online theory, 10 hours homework, and 10 hours private in-vehicle training. Specializations include defensive driving and road test preparation.
Do your courses qualify for insurance discounts?
Yes, completing our MTO-certified program makes graduates eligible for potential insurance rate reductions through their providers.
How does the online program work?
Our digital platform offers self-paced learning with pre-recorded videos covering 8 core topics. Students complete interactive modules and homework assignments accessible 24/7 from any internet-connected device.
What areas do you serve for in-vehicle lessons?
We provide local pickup/drop-off in Ottawa, Nepean, and Barrhaven. Students outside these areas must arrange meeting points with our Head Office for practical training sessions.
What are your office hours?
Our Barrhaven headquarters operates Monday-Friday 9:30 AM-4:30 PM. Online programs are available 24/7, with emergency support accessible through our main phone line.
Reviews (7)
Maurelle M.
Mar 24, 2021
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Positive:Communication
Tibor is a nice, chill and funny teacher. If you have him as an driving instructor, you'll be lucky because he'll teach you thing in the most relaxed way.
Tibor is a nice, chill and funny teacher. If you have him as an driving instructor, you'll be lucky because he'll teach you thing in the most relaxed way.
N. Roy
Oct 20, 2020
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Positive:Communication
Thank you DTSM! Your scheduling support during these difficult times is appreciated. Through uncertainty, your staff strived to meet our needs with professionalism, open communication and compassion. Many thanks for the referral and best wishes for continued success. Best wishes
Thank you DTSM! Your scheduling support during these difficult times is appreciated. Through uncertainty, your staff strived to meet our needs with professionalism, open communication and compassion. Many thanks for the referral and best wishes for continued success. Best wishes
Renee S.
Nov 11, 2019
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All three of my children got their drivers license through this school. They are worth the money!
Ljja Klopae
Oct 04, 2019
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The instructor is very rude and unprofessional. he even made some sexist comments. he goes off track and talks about himself.
Carol Liliac
Sep 11, 2018
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Very rude in class instructor that goes off topic many times and doesnt teach well. He thinks hes better than the class when people are there to learn.
Beier Cai
Sep 29, 2017
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Poor quality of teachers. The environment is not good, very small. Too many students. Learn nothing. The lecturer is very unreasonable and the coach is very good.
William Rolston
Jul 20, 2017
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I went to this place as a friend recommended it. The lectures were long with little to no breaks for snacks and dinner. I booked my drivers ed here for Monday and Tuesday nights from 4:15-9:15 for a total of 20 hours. The teacher was rude, impatient, and was late every single time. There were items on the tests that were not explained in class. At the end of class the instructor took points off for completed homework which was annoying. The instructor also took points FOR USING A PENCIL even though he only told us at the end. He kept saying "it will rub off!". What kind of logic is that!?!?
Overall
Overall
