Training

Congratulations! By finding this website you are on the right road to Learning how to drive & passing your driving test in Galway. Whether you are a complete beginner or looking for a pre test course of lessons for your driving test in Galway. Advance Drive is the driving school for you, We will help you pass your driving test first time. Take a moment to read our customer Testimonials.

Advance Drive is Galway’s largest and most successful driving school with a pass rate second to none. The Advance Drive office was originally based in Salthill, but now has its main office in our state of the art transport training centre located in Ballybane Galway. We are the only driving school and training centre in the West of Ireland approved by the RSA to deliver ADI instructor training and to deliver driver training in every category of vehicle (A, A1, B, B, C1, C, CE, D1, D).
Advance Drive teaches beginners how to drive manual and automatic cars as well as providing driver training to professional drivers in such industries as The Fire Service, Ambulance Drivers – Paramedics / EMT’s, Coach & Minibus Drivers and Rigid & Artic Truck Drivers. Whatever the license category Advance Drive has you covered!

Advance Drive run weekly Driver CPC Training courses, Manual Handling courses, Digital Tachograph Training and provide information on ADR Driver Hazchem Training courses for professional drivers in Galway, Mayo and Westmeath.

Driver recruitment is another service offered to recently qualified and experienced drivers. We work with transport companies to place newly qualified drivers. Some commercial clients of Advance Drive include; The Department of Social Protection & Employment Services, Intreo, ETB’s Nationwide, An Post, The ESB, Galway City Council and Galway County Council.

Advance Drive guarantee to give the best possible training with Director of Advance Drive; Philip Rice being presented with the RSA’s ‘Leading Lights’ in road safety award for ‘ADI Truck Instructor of the year 2013’ & again in 2014, Advance Drive was also short listed and a finalist for the ‘Safety Award’ in the ‘Irish Logistics and Transport Awards 2014’.

Learning to drive is something that nearly every person will do in their lifetime. Getting the correct information and professional training from the start helps drivers to become safer, more competent drivers thus minimising risk to themselves and other vulnerable road users. Advance Drive will help you pass your driving test first time and provide you with all the information and guidance you need along the way.

For more information contact a member of our team on 091 524689 or email info@advancedrive.com

Click here to book a Course Now!

Philip Rice – ADI of the Year 2014 RSA Leading Lights awards

Philip Rice – ADI of the Year 2013 RSA Leading Lights awards

`Testimonials`

From my initial contact to passing my test I could not have been happier with the high level of service I received. Aoife and all the staff working in their Ballybane Office were approachable, informative and very knowledgeable about all aspects of Driving / Driving Tests and timescales involved. Dezzie was my Driving Instructor and he displayed all of the aforementioned traits and more. He is also very good at catering for each persons desired method of learning as well as simply being “sound as a pound”. I have nothing but the highest regard for all the staff at Advance Drive and can confidently recommend them to anyone looking to get any kind of Driving Licence. Go raibh míle maith agaibh agus bí sabháilte, Peadar 🤙☘️
December 16, 2020Galway

Just completed my rigid truck test with Advance Drive this week and what a great experience I had not just passing the test but the learning experiences I got , I wish to thank all the staff at advance drive from the office staff to the instructors ,all of you have to be commended on your professionalism and your approach to teaching , learning and instructing at Advanced Drive.I have to say a big thank you to my right hand man even though he was sitting on the left hand side ,PJ Dunne.I can only describe his instruction as exceptional,a true gent that makes you feel confident in driving .along with all at advanced drive there is an overall infectious enthusiasm for learning and I thank you for that. May I wish all at Advance Drive the best for the future,I have no hesitation in highly recommending Advance Drive for all your instructional needs from car,truck bus and artic best wishes and many thanks again Eugene Flynn
October 10, 2022tuam, co. galway

- Instructor: Vas is an excellent instructor, very careful with details; aways show the exact procedures for the exam; point out all the right and wrong maneuvers during the lessons; encourage you and prepare you for the stressful day of the test. - Driving centre: it was the only driving centre I found with available agenda for a short period; They have both manual and automatic cars; They have a good price; They are flexible; They always answer you very quick.
February 25, 2022Knocknacarra, Galway

Hi All, I just want to thank Dezzie and all the team at Advance Drive for helping me pass my Class B driving test last Monday in Westside Galway. Overall, I did 17 lessons with Dezzie in the Ford Fiesta and I found him to be extremely friendly, professional and knowledgeable at all times, and I can definitely say that he has the patience of a saint. As such, I can't recommend Advance Drive enough and I know that I would not have passed my driving test first time round without Dezzie's expert help. Thanks a million Dezzie.
April 30, 2014Brendan Kelly

Today I achieved a big dream—I passed my Category C driving test! 🚛🎉 I would like to sincerely thank the entire team at my driving school for their professionalism, patience, support, and dedication throughout this journey. You played an important part in helping me achieve this milestone. I’m truly grateful for every lesson, every piece of advice, and all the encouragement you gave me. This is the beginning of a new chapter, and I’ll always appreciate everything I learned with you. Thank you so much! Wishing you continued success in helping many more people achieve their dreams. #Grateful #CategoryC #TruckDriver #NewBeginning #Ireland
June 26, 2026

After weeks of preparation and hard work, I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve passed my bus driving licence exam! The journey wasn’t always easy, but it was incredibly rewarding. I want to thank my instructor (Noel) for their patience and guidance throughout the training process. He is not only taught me the technical skills needed but also instilled confidence in my abilities to handle a bus safely and responsibly. The testing process was thorough and fair, challenging me to showcase all the skills and knowledge I’d gained. Passing this milestone feels like a major achievement, and I’m excited to begin a new chapter in my career as a licensed bus driver. To anyone preparing for their own test: stay focused, trust the process, and practice as much as you can. It’s worth it!
December 12, 2024Galway

I went to Advanced drive after they were recommended by a friend. I have now passed 2 tests with them (bus and truck) and can't praise them enough. Phillip and Mike are both very patient and encouraging during the learning process. During each pre-test lesson they re-assured me and gave me ways to deal with the test nerves. This patience,professionality and excellent prices, added to their felxibility in scheduling lessons make them my first choice for any more tests. well done lads
April 28, 2014Stephen Hand

I passed my truck C test yesterday. I never drove a truck before and did seven lessons with Advance Drive instructor PJ Dunne. PJ’s tuition was 10/10, excellent, extremely professional. He is very personable and puts you at ease. His extensive experience is priceless, and he weighs your capabilities instantly and focuses on your weaknesses. He also drills you on the headline Health and safety and has his easy-to-follow notations to program you in good practice. The test is difficult, I was pushed on every element during the test. The lessons got rid of my years of ‘bad habits’ driving a jeep. During the test, PJ’s advice loud in my head at every junction, tight corner squeezed road due to road works, looking ahead to preempt potential hazards all came together the day of the test. When the examiner spoke to me briefly after the test, she said – ‘You must have been driving a truck for a while.’ That is a testimony to how good Advance Drive is and Instructor PJ Dunne. I highly recommend Advance drive for any of your driving lessons. In house Aoife, who had to account for my few cancellations, is very professional, friendly, and polite. An extremely efficient, professional business. Lessons are essential to pass this test and I highly recommend Advance Drive-An effective team. Peter
November 11, 2022

Just passed my D1 (minibus) test and CPC today on my FIRST attempt. My instructor Anton was very professional through the whole process and can't credit him enough on having me prepared, he is a great instructor and made the process very smooth and enjoyable. The team in the office were very supportive in assisting with the application process from Theory test to Driving test. I'd happily recommend Advance Drive for anyone who is looking to learn drive any vehicle.
September 3, 2021Athlone

Having resently passed my driving test for category "D" Bus Licence, I would just like to thank Advance Drive for all the tuition and instruction that I received in preparation for the driving test and also the bus case studies exam. Ronald was on the mark as usual for the possible case study questions that might come up on the day of the test and passing on all that knowledge. Thank you Ronald so much. As far as my bus driving skills needed to be brought up to a high standard in order for me to pass the test, I have Mike to thank for all his patience and professionalism. You got me to that level required to pass. Thank you for everything Mike. Thanks also to all the staff for all the planning of lessons and date fixtures. Thank you all so much. Advance Drive is a very professionally ran training school, with the very best instructors. Highly recommended.
August 7, 202466 Dun Na Mara Drive Renmore Galway

Advance Drive was a great option to complete my EDT in the way to obtain the Irish driving license. Very responsive and proffesionals, Emma and Aoife were great in supporting the classes scheduling and booking the car for the day of the test. For me it was very valuable the offered service to book the same car to take the exam. My instructor Pat was brilliant and patient in guiding me in the introduction to Ireland's driving rules and correcting me some bad driving habits!. He gave me very good tips, that I took, and I am very happy to have passed the driving test today!
August 23, 2021GORT

I had an excellent experience learning with Pat. He was phenomenal at his job—patient, professional, and incredibly knowledgeable. Pat explained everything clearly, built my confidence behind the wheel, and always made sure I felt comfortable and understood each lesson. His calm and encouraging approach made learning to drive an enjoyable experience. Thanks to his guidance, I became a safe and confident driver. I highly recommend Pat to anyone looking for a dedicated and outstanding driving instructor. Thank you, Pat, for all your support and encouragement!
June 18, 2026Galway

My driving instructor was Declan and he is a very good profesional and knows his job well. He explains everything very clear and in a very understandable way and he has a great patience. He is a very good teacher. I have changed many different driving instructors. I can say, that Declan always gives a very good examples from everyday life . He taught me a lot, and I am very grateful for and I still can’t believe that I’ve passed my driving test. Thank you Declan for your help and patience Olga
February 27, 2024Galway

Sailed through my Artic Truck test thanks to Philip and his brilliant, assuring and dedicated teaching. These guys really know their stuff and tutor you very professionally AND calmly! (this is most important, especially when trying to reverse a 35FT trailer around a corner!) When it came to seeking a professional driving qualification and after doing my research and getting info from all the other 'instructors' I am really delighted to have gone with Advance Drive - they're my No.1
April 30, 2014Nicholas

Thanks to Corey for all your help and guidance throughout my driving lessons. Your patience, teaching, and advice were invaluable and made a significant difference in my learning experience. I was completely hesitant to even learn to drive, but your calm and encouraging approach ensured the whole process was a joy. Your expertise and reassuring demeanor made each lesson something I looked forward to, rather than something to be anxious about. I'm truly thankful for your dedication and the effort you put into helping me become a confident and safe driver. I highly recommend you to anyone looking to learn how to drive. Your professionalism and kindness make you an exceptional instructor.
June 14, 2024Bearna, Co Galway

I cannot reccomend Advance Drive enough for new drivers! After failing the test three times with other instructors I had lost all confidence in my driving abilities. And became a very nervous driver. I then went to Advance Drive where Noel became my new instructor. Noel changed my whole perspective on driving and the nerves went away. He's so patient and understanding and I found the lessons to be fun and enjoyable in comparison to other driving schools in Galway. 10/10 for Noel & Advanced drive, could not reccomend enough! Definitely the reason for me passing my test!
September 4, 2020Galway

Firstly I would like to say a massive thanks to everyone in Advance Drive. From day one the staff in reception especially Aoife & Carla have been very very helpful and friendly. Any queries I had were explained straight away and they were able to work around my schedule to fit lessons in. A massive thanks to Pat, Dezzie and especially Noel for all the training in my bus lessons. The lads were 100% and very professional in training. I would highly recommend Advance drive for all your lessons. Passed both my Truck & Bus test first time! Thanks a million to all the staff 👏
October 13, 2025

I was Delighted to pass my Category D Bus test on my first attempt yesterday Thanks to all the guys at Advance Drive, they are a very professional set up and I couldn’t recommend them enough . I have to give a special mention to Gerry who was my instructor, Gerry is a professional who knows his job inside out and gives great confidence and self belief, he is also good fun and gives a relaxed feel to the whole experience, I think I will be hearing “Mind that tail swing and mirror mirror” in my sleep for the next ten years! Thanks also to Aoife, Alilbhe and Emma in the office who were always very helpful when I was looking for any information. Overall I would highly recommend Advance Drive to anyone wishing to learn to drive or add a new category to their license.
March 3, 2022Galway

Thanks a million to all at Advance. I've just completed a hat-trick of Rigid, Bus and Artic tests and it's all thanks to your team. I've learned a lot, made new friends and had great craic in 2024 thanks to Advance - and not forgetting Patricia and all at GRETB. Everyone involved was professional and courteous but more importantly, very helpful and supportive. The instructors all had great patience and skill - and above all, a sense of humour (and they certainly needed that at times!). And the back-room team were always a pleasure to deal with - very efficient. Phillip and Ailbhe, ye have a great team there - keep doing what ye're doing. And put me on the waiting list for next year's Sikorsky 101 course - although I'm dreading the hill-start!
November 20, 2024East Galway

Having recently completed and thankfully passed the Rigid Truck Course, I would just like to thank Advance Drive for all the excellent tuition that we all received while on the the course. I would particularly like to thank Martin for his patience and his great instruction with the driving lessons. Thanks also to all the Admin staff as always, for keeping everything on track and running smoothly for us throughout the course. A truly exceptional experience. Thank you all so much.
August 30, 2024Galway

Amazing lessons, great instructors and a very central location in Galway city. This is definitely a 5 star driving school. Both office staff - Aoife and Emma were always on hand to organize lessons at very short notice along with being very helpful and professional. My instructors Lee and Anton were hugely influential upon passing my category C driving test. What you will learn from these two guys will not only benefit you during your driving test but also in your future driving life especially when it comes to your safety and well being on the road. No need to google anybody else - you have found the best instructors right here. Thanks all.
December 3, 2020Galway

Just passed my bus course with advance in conjunction with GRETB. I had Vincent as my instructor and he is excellent would highly recommend him for anyone thinking off getting the bus or truck licence. The staff are very helpful from start to finish from meeting Phillip when you first join to Emma and Aoife and Lee who are always there to help with any questions you need answered. Ronald took us for cpc training and has years of experience and makes it easy to learn. Cant recommend Advance Drive highly enough.
July 7, 2021Athlone

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