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Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Driver Training in Portland, ME
Bartley's Driving School has been dedicated to driver education since 1972, combining decades of expertise with personalized instruction to prepare students for safe, confident driving. Our owner, Nelson Bartley, brings over 37 years of law enforcement experience from the Portland Police Department, including specialized training in accident reconstruction, to create a curriculum that emphasizes defensive driving tactics and real-world road safety. With four strategically located classrooms in Cheverus, Cumberland, Gray, and Yarmouth, we offer flexible scheduling and individualized attention to accommodate students' needs.

Our state-licensed program includes 30 hours of classroom instruction and 10 hours of behind-the-wheel training, meeting Maine's legal requirements while maintaining a student-centered approach. We prioritize accessibility through installment payment plans and gift certificate options, ensuring our services remain available to diverse learners. Our instructors' extensive experience in traffic safety and education positions us as a trusted resource for driver training in southern Maine communities.
Services
Driver Education Course Behind the Wheel Instruction Private Driving Lessons Road Test Preparation Gift Certificates
Details
  • Year established: 1972
Highlights and features
  • Over 50 years of driver education experience in Maine
  • Personalized attention with four convenient classroom locations
  • Flexible scheduling accommodating student availability
  • Instructors with law enforcement and accident reconstruction expertise
  • Affordable payment plans available for all courses
Services
Driver Education Course
Our comprehensive driver education program combines 30 hours of classroom instruction with 10 hours of hands-on driving experience. Designed to meet Maine's licensing requirements, this course teaches defensive driving tactics and road safety fundamentals. Students receive personalized attention from experienced instructors with law enforcement backgrounds.
Behind the Wheel Instruction
Professional behind-the-wheel training includes 10 hours of supervised driving with certified instructors. Sessions focus on developing practical skills for various road conditions and traffic scenarios. Instruction emphasizes safety protocols and confidence-building techniques for new drivers.
Private Driving Lessons
Customized private lessons help students prepare for road tests and improve specific driving skills. Available on an hourly basis, these sessions offer focused instruction tailored to individual learning needs. Ideal for permit holders seeking additional practice.
Road Test Preparation
Specialized training to prepare students for official driving examinations. Covers test routes, vehicle control requirements, and traffic law compliance. Instructors provide targeted feedback to address specific areas needing improvement before official testing.
Gift Certificates
Flexible gift certificates available for driver education courses and lessons. Ideal for special occasions, these vouchers can be customized for specific amounts. Provides a practical gift option for new drivers in training.
People
Nelson Bartley
Owner/Instructor
Owner and lead instructor with 50+ years teaching experience. Retired Portland Police Lieutenant specializing in traffic safety. Holds university degree in Social Studies and advanced accident reconstruction training.
Questions
What is the minimum age requirement for driver training?
Students must be at least 15 years old when starting the course, as required by Maine State Law.
What does the driver education course include?
The $600 course includes 30 classroom hours covering traffic laws and 10 behind-the-wheel hours with certified instructors.
Are payment plans available for driving lessons?
Yes, we offer a two-payment plan with $300 due on the first class day and $300 at the beginning of the third week.
Do you offer private driving instruction?
Private lessons are available hourly for permit holders preparing for road tests or needing additional practice.
What areas do you serve for driving instruction?
We serve Cumberland, Falmouth, Portland, Yarmouth, Westbrook, Windham, and surrounding communities in southern Maine.