Ask the experts. Drive with confidence
Our driver education program is designed to meet the needs of students of all ages who are preparing to earn their license. We provide both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training, ensuring that every student develops the skills needed to become a safe and defensive driver. With immediate scheduling available, we offer flexibility through multiple learning formats, including live Zoom classes and self-paced study options. Whether serving teenagers beginning their driving journey or adults seeking structured guidance, we tailor our instruction to help each student build the confidence and knowledge required for responsible driving.We are committed to delivering driver education that is both engaging and effective. Our instructors bring extensive experience and utilize modern teaching tools to create an interactive and enjoyable learning environment. Students benefit from innovative methods that promote attentiveness and lasting comprehension. For example, our upcoming instructor-led Zoom course in Apple Valley will run from October 13 to October 24, meeting Monday through Friday from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM. This session consists of 10 mandatory classes, and any absences must be coordinated directly with the instructor. As many schools are on MEA break during part of this schedule, we encourage early registration to secure placement in this course or other upcoming sessions.
Served areas
- Entire south metro area
Business details
- Year established: 2022
- Employees: 5
- Licensed
- Insured
Highlights and features
- Locally Owned & Operated – Serving Apple Valley and surrounding communities.
- Expert Instructors – Certified, patient, and experienced teachers who tailor lessons to each student.
- Flexible Options – Self-paced online classes, traditional classroom, and flexible behind-the-wheel scheduling.
- Proven Results – High student success rate on permit and license exams
- Personalized Lesson Plans – Each student receives a training plan designed around their skill level, confidence, and learning style.
Associations and certifications
- Licensed by the State of Minnesota Department of Public Safety – Officially approved to provide both classroom and behind-the-wheel driver education.
- DMV-Approved Curriculum – Courses designed in alignment with Minnesota state standards for teen and adult drivers.
- Certified Instructors – All instructors are state-licensed, background-checked, and trained in safe, effective teaching methods.
- Dual-Control Vehicles – Fully insured and equipped with instructor brakes for maximum safety.
- Member, Driving School Association of the Americas (DSAA)
- Continuous Professional Development – Instructors receive ongoing training to stay current on new driving laws, teaching techniques, and safety standards
- Autism Awareness & Specialized Training – Instructors trained to work with students on the autism spectrum and other diverse learning needs, ensuring a patient, supportive, and individualized approach.
Payment methods
- Cash, Checks, Debit cards, Credit cards, Mobile payments, Bank transfers, Financing available
Services
At Hot Seat Driving School, our Teen Driver Ed program is carefully designed to give students a thorough foundation in safe and responsible driving. We combine proven teaching strategies, modern technology, and experienced instructors to build confidence behind the wheel. Lessons are personalized to meet each students learning needs, ensuring steady progress. Our commitment is to prepare teens with the lifelong skills required to drive safely and responsibly.
Our Adult Driver Education program is designed for individuals of any age who are beginning their driving journey or need a certificate to retake the road test after completing six hours of instruction. With personalized training from experienced instructors, students gain confidence and essential skills to drive safely and responsibly.
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Reviews (16)
Jojo Ullom
Jul 22, 2025
11/10 recommend hotseat driving school if youre looking to get your permit or do your BTW. I have absolutely nothing bad to say about hotseat, the owner Crystal made communication so easy and made me feel comfortable enough to reach out with any problems I was having. My driving instructor Jenny is so sweet and made me feel INCREDIBLY comfortable about my BTW. She answered every question I had and talked me through everything. I would recommend hot seat driving school to everyone I know!
Helen Jager
May 07, 2025
Great Instructor! Helped me get more confidence behind the wheel while teaching me in a way that was calm but instructive. I passed my test because of her. She was the only one who helped me with parking and understanding everything. And shes such a kind person as well, thank you Crystal so much for everything!
Emily Romanie Emily
Mar 28, 2025
Tharani Dissanayake
Dec 02, 2024
Patricia Dika
Oct 25, 2024
Flummon
Sep 25, 2024
Addison Schons
Sep 06, 2024
Yoseph Tesfaye
Aug 09, 2024
Alecia Bowen
Jul 31, 2024
I was looking for my son to have some more experience with a driver, other than his high strung mom!
I reached out to Crystal And, was able to get some things scheduled right away, after she answered all of my questions.
She picked up my son from our home and made him instantly feel comfortable and confident behind the wheel. She gave me some text updates throughout driving and words of encouragement.
I was also looking into the really amazing opportunity to have her take my son to the DMV for his test day, which ended up working out perfectly.
It will be a few more years before we have another driver in the home, but I will be looking to see if Crystal is still open and accepting clients. Definitely worth checking Crystal out and using her professional services to get the extra time and experience behind the wheel for you or your driver.
Thank you so much, from a new licensed driver mom!
I reached out to Crystal And, was able to get some things scheduled right away, after she answered all of my questions.
She picked up my son from our home and made him instantly feel comfortable and confident behind the wheel. She gave me some text updates throughout driving and words of encouragement.
I was also looking into the really amazing opportunity to have her take my son to the DMV for his test day, which ended up working out perfectly.
It will be a few more years before we have another driver in the home, but I will be looking to see if Crystal is still open and accepting clients. Definitely worth checking Crystal out and using her professional services to get the extra time and experience behind the wheel for you or your driver.
Thank you so much, from a new licensed driver mom!
Andy Nelson
Jun 29, 2024
Crystal was my behind the wheel teacher, she did a great job at helping me figure out the issues I had with my driving skills and had me build upon them to new heights, because of her I managed to pass my driver's test first try at Hastings. She was also just an overall nice person to talk to, really friendly and informative.
Claudia Andrea Yablochkin
May 18, 2024
I had an AMAZING! experience with Crystal and Amyjoy. I was very nervous to take my test (after failing a couple of times) and both made me feel confident again. I passed the test without any problems! Each one of my lessons were far from stressful. They were so enjoyable to be around. If you are looking for a school this place is definitely highly recommened.
Alisia Ray
Mar 25, 2024
My son went to hot seat driving school. He has a rare form of dyslexia as well as a retrieval block. Ive never watched him study harder to achieve anything.
This school is incredible. Not only did they go the extra mile to equip him with all the information but they were kind and thoughtful at every turn. The driving test is hard and such a pivotal time for a 15/16 year old kid. Im so grateful we chose hot seat driving school. I have no doubt this would have been a grueling process without them. An extra shout out to crystal who is an incredible human with the patience of a saint.
This school is incredible. Not only did they go the extra mile to equip him with all the information but they were kind and thoughtful at every turn. The driving test is hard and such a pivotal time for a 15/16 year old kid. Im so grateful we chose hot seat driving school. I have no doubt this would have been a grueling process without them. An extra shout out to crystal who is an incredible human with the patience of a saint.
Hibaaq Mahamud
Mar 24, 2024
This is the best most professional driving school/ instructor I've ever came across. She gives clear instructions and is extremely patient with the students which helped me be able to focus without feeling overwhelmed. She is also extremely accommodating of the students schedules and time which is much appreciated. Overall this is the driving school Id recommend to anyone especially those who had difficulty learning how to drive in the past since the instructor gives clear step by step instructions while Maintaining a patient and professional presence.
Jennifer Taing
Mar 21, 2024
Words cant express how grateful I am to Crystal/Hot Seat Driving School! Ive been struggling for years and years (Im 28) to get my drivers license. I had so much test anxiety. I had already failed a couple of times before I went to Hot Seat Driving School. But with Crystals help I was finally able to pass!!! Her lessons were so helpful (especially the parking portions). It really helped ease my anxieties/worries. She also went above and beyond for me! She pushed me (in the kindest way) to go for it and take the test! I was able to use Hot Seat Driving Schools car. And I passed!!! Thank you so much Now I can have my independence and I can move forward in my life!
Irene Binkowski
Mar 15, 2024
Davette Kohnen
Mar 06, 2024
We have been completely happy with Hot Seat so far! My teen completed the fully online 30 hour class modules at his own pace. He was satisfied with the info, videos, and "discussion" quizzes. After studying for a couple days after completion, he texted Crystal to set up a time to stop in to the classroom and take his knowledge test. In less than 10 minutes he had passed and was ready to head to the Burnsville License Center to quickly process his permit application. Overall, the learning process was thorough and painless. Highly recommend Hot Seat for anyone needing a flexible schedule or being a neurodivergent learner!