Winding Road Driving Academy

Why Choose Winding Road Driving Academy? While we cannot guarantee a passing result on your first attempt, we provide personalized instruction to help you master the knowledge and skills required for the road. We understand that many learners do not need adaptive equipment, but do benefit from teaching tailored to their specific needs. Winding Road Driving Academy is a Class B Driver Training school certified by the Virginia DMV, and we are a registered vendor with the Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services. Our lead instructor holds a Certificate of Driver’s Education and brings extensive experience working with individuals with special needs. She is a Certified Assistive Technology Professional, a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, a National Safety Council Defensive Driving Instructor, and a certified Drive-To-Work Driver’s Manual Course Instructor. All training is conducted in a 2018 Jeep Cherokee Latitude. Services Offered Consultation We begin with a conversation to understand where you are in the licensing process and identify your specific goals, learning style, and any circumstances that may impact your ability to drive safely. We will review your past driving experience, discuss what worked well and what needs improvement, and determine the best training path. If necessary, we can refer you to a Certified Driving Rehabilitation Specialist for a comprehensive evaluation to determine if adaptive equipment or specialized support is required. Classroom Instruction The 8-Hour Driver’s Manual Course is required for students who have failed the written learner’s permit exam three times. Divided into two 4-hour sessions, this class gives students time to absorb the material, return with questions, and learn how traffic laws apply to real-world driving. Available in Leesburg and Fairfax, VA. The 8-Hour Driver Improvement Clinic (Defensive Driving) is required by the Virginia DMV for drivers under age 20 who receive a moving violation, regardless of court appearance. Drivers 20 and older may be court-ordered to attend or can take the course voluntarily to reduce demerit points. Offered in Leesburg and Fairfax as two 4-hour sessions, we schedule classes on demand to fit your availability. While online options exist, in-person instruction often provides a more effective learning environment. The 36-hour classroom portion of standard Driver’s Education is also available in Leesburg. Private In-Car Instruction We offer one-on-one driving lessons for students of all ages. This service is ideal for learners who need extra practice beyond standard training, adults preparing to take the DMV road skills test, and licensed drivers who are new to the area and want to build confidence navigating local traffic. Available in Loudoun County and Western Fairfax County. Behind-the-Wheel Training Our standard program includes 14 in-car sessions, consisting of 7 periods of active driving and 7 periods of supervised observation, and includes the final road skills examination. Virginia requires two students to participate simultaneously, with one driving while the other serves as an active observer. This training is mandatory for all drivers under age 18 and available as an option for older drivers who have completed the classroom portion. Offered in Loudoun County and Western Fairfax County.