Frequently Asked Questions

💬 What can I expect during my driving lessons?

Every lesson is designed to help you feel comfortable and confident behind the wheel.
We’ll start with the basics, getting familiar with your vehicle’s controls, learning safe habits, and building key skills like turning, parking, and understanding road signs.
As your confidence grows, we’ll move into more advanced driving, including highway driving, defensive driving techniques, and preparing for your test.

💬 What’s included in the Class 1 driving lessons?

✔ One‑on‑one sessions with an experienced, patient instructor
✔ Lessons tailored to your ability and goals
✔ Pre‑test assessments to identify areas for improvement
✔ Guidance and practice on test routes and key driving tasks
✔ Convenient pick‑up and drop‑off options within Whanganui
✔ Friendly feedback and a lesson review after each session
✔ Use of our dual‑controlled manual or automatic vehicles (if you don’t have your own)

💬 How much do lessons cost?

As of March 25th, 2023, single lessons start at $70, and prepaid packages start at $275.
Payment is required in advance, and we accept both bank transfers and cash on the day.

💬 What payment options are available?

💵 Cash: Payment is due the day before your lesson.
🏦 Online Banking: Payments can be made to MDT Driver Training | 38‑9025‑0560451‑01 (preferably the day before).
Receipts are available upon request.

💬 What is your cancellation policy?

If you’re running late, please text or call 027 368 5010 as soon as possible.
Because lessons are booked close together, arriving late may shorten your time.
If you’re more than 10 minutes late without contact, your lesson will be cancelled, and the fee forfeited.

To cancel or reschedule, please give at least 24 hours’ notice to avoid charges. Lessons are non‑transferable and non‑refundable without prior agreement.

💬 What about pre‑paid package lessons?

Full payment is required before your first lesson. If you need to make changes, just contact Matt, we’re happy to help.
Pre‑paid packages are non‑refundable (as they’re offered at a discounted rate), but any unused lessons can be gifted to someone else.

💬 Can I use my own vehicle?

Definitely! You can use your own car, manual or automatic, if you feel more comfortable in it. Just make sure it’s registered, warranted, and road‑legal.

💬 What do I need to bring to my lesson?

Please bring your driver licence, by law, we can’t begin the lesson without it.
Wear comfortable clothing and closed‑toe shoes (avoid sandals or jandals) for safety and control.

💬 Can I gift driving lessons?

Yes! Driving lessons make a thoughtful and practical gift. 🎁
Contact us to arrange payment and scheduling for the lucky recipient.
Please note: Lessons or vouchers from the previous owner (before January 31st, 2024) are no longer valid.

💬 Can I use MDT’s car for my test?

Absolutely! You can book either:

• $115 – Vehicle hire only (1–2 hours)
• $190 – Includes a pre‑test practice session plus use of the MDT vehicle for your formal test.

To use our vehicle for your test, you’ll need to have had at least one lesson within two weeks of your booking, and be a confident, competent driver. Test day bookings depend on MDT’s schedule, so please coordinate ahead.

💬 Do you offer refresher lessons?

Yes! Whether you’re returning to driving after a break or just need to rebuild confidence, our refresher sessions are calm, supportive, and designed to help you feel at ease on the road again.

💬 Can parents or caregivers join a lesson?

Yes, parents are welcome to observe. We kindly ask that you let Matt lead the session, as extra input can sometimes distract the learner or affect safety.

💬 Do you offer Defensive Driving Courses?

We’re not currently offering Defensive Driving Courses, but we hope to do so in the future.
Please keep an eye on our website or Facebook page for updates once we become an approved course provider.

🚦 Additional FAQs About NZ Road Rules

💬 Do you teach using the latest NZ Road Code?

Yes , all our lessons follow the current New Zealand Road Code and NZTA guidelines. We keep up with any updates so you always learn the most accurate, up‑to‑date information.

💬 Have there been any recent road rule changes?

There have been a few updates learners should be aware of, including:

• Speed limit adjustments in certain areas
• New and clearer intersection markings
• Safer passing distance rules around cyclists and pedestrians
• Tougher rules around mobile phone use while driving
  Don’t worry,  Matt covers these during your lessons so you always feel confident and informed.

💬 Do you help with theory test preparation?

Yes! We can help guide you through the material for your Learner Licence theory test, including road signs, give‑way rules, and safe driving principles.

💬 What safety measures are in place during lessons?

Your safety comes first. All MDT vehicles are dual‑controlled, regularly inspected, and maintained to NZTA standards. Lessons are always conducted under safe road and traffic conditions.

💬 Can I use my phone while driving?

No, it’s illegal to use or hold a phone while driving (even at lights). Only fully hands-free systems are allowed. Using your phone while driving can lead to fines and demerit points, so we’ll help you build good habits from the start.

💬 What about sharing the road with cyclists and pedestrians?

Always leave at least 1.5 metres of space when passing cyclists and take extra care around pedestrians, especially near crossings and shared use roads. We’ll cover how to approach these safely in your lessons.

💬 Do you teach basic car care and maintenance?

Yes! We believe a confident driver also understands the basics of car care. You’ll learn how to check your tyres, oil, lights, and wipers, and what’s required for a Warrant of Fitness (WoF) and registration.

💬 What should I bring for my official driving test?

Bring your licence, any test confirmations, and glasses or contacts if needed. Arrive early to go over everything calmly with your instructor before your test.

For the most up to date road rules and licensing requirements, visit the official NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) website at www.nzta.govt.nz.