Acclaim Driving School in Belfast holds a 4.9-star average from 772 Google reviews, with instructors Anthony Hegarty, Andrew, David and John McKinley named frequently for calm, encouraging teaching. Craig Dilley draws particular praise from learners around Downpatrick preparing for the DVA test, with reviewers highlighting his constructive corrections and steady manner. The school is also noted for efficiently arranging block bookings and pairing learners with a suitable instructor. Several reviewers describe starting out nervous and finishing lessons feeling genuinely confident, crediting patient, unhurried explanations and instructors who remain calm even after repeated mistakes.
Reviews
4.9 / 5 · 772 totalI can't recommend Craig Dilley highly enough! Thanks to his patience, clear guidance, and excellent teaching, I passed my DVA driving test on my very first attempt. Craig always stayed calm, explained everything clearly, and gave me the confidence I needed behind the wheel. He took the time to correct my mistakes in a constructive way and made every lesson enjoyable and productive. If you're looking for a driving instructor in the Downpatrick area who is professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in helping you succeed, Craig is the one to choose. Thank you, Craig, for helping me achieve this milestone!
I did a 10 day intensive course with instructor Jonnie Quinn. I would recommend it to anyone who has 2 weeks to spare and wants their driving license! Jonnie is a fantastic instructor - I had zero driving experience before starting this course, but his patience, calmness and good humour made it very easy for me to build up confidence behind the wheel. He knows exactly what is required to get you to pass your test, and more importantly make you a safe driver. Taking this course is one of the best decisions I have made in recent times. Happy motoring 🚗
Andrew is an exceptional driving instructor and a genuinely kind person. Thanks to his guidance, patience, encouragement, and constant support, I passed my driving test on my first attempt. I was very nervous when I started learning, but Andrew helped me build my confidence with his calm, practical, and professional approach. He is always patient, flexible, and accommodating, and he explains everything clearly. Throughout my lessons, I never saw him become angry or harsh—he always remained positive and supportive. I truly appreciate the time and effort he invested in helping me succeed. I highly recommend Andrew to anyone looking for a knowledgeable, trustworthy, and friendly driving instructor. Thank you, Andrew, for helping me achieve this milestone!
I was fortunate to have Graeme as my driving instructor. He showed great patience and kindness during our lessons. I throughly enjoyed his chat. Wishing you all the best in the Lake District!
I highly recommend David as a driving instructor. He was incredibly supportive and patient throughout all of my lessons. His calm and friendly approach helped me feel comfortable and confident behind the wheel from the very beginning. David explains everything clearly and takes the time to ensure you fully understand each skill before moving on. He is professional, reliable, and always encouraging, which made every lesson enjoyable and productive. His constructive feedback and positive attitude helped me build confidence and improve my driving significantly. Thank you, David, for all your guidance, dedication, and support. I truly appreciate everything you have done to help me become a safe and confident driver.
Passed my test first time with the amazing Stephen Whinnery. Stephen is an exceptional driving instructor who was very supportive and patient. He never let me give up on myself when i was extremely anxious about driving. He never missed a lesson and made me feel very comfortable throughout my journey with driving. I’m eternally grateful i got him as my instructor.
John McKinley, he is a great instructor, and very friendly, I had 20 hours lesson with him and I passed the test for the first attempt. He is very patient, and his knowledge is great. He always explains everything before I learn a new manoeuvre and make sure I do it correctly. I think that he not only guide me to pass the test but also the driving mindset when I am on the road, how to read the signs, anticipate the situations that might happen to avoid the dangerous unnecessarily on the road. I definitely highly recommend him. Thank you so much John and Acclaim team!