People learn to drive for all kinds of reasons—getting to work, running errands, moving more freely, or just being done with asking for a ride. But learning how to drive well starts with the right training.
In Region 12, there are dozens of LTO-accredited schools. This list was built not just to help you find one, but to help you choose one that fits. These schools offer different strengths—some are close to home, others have instructors praised for their patience, and a few stand out for how they prepare you for real road conditions, not just test-day requirements.
Akademia Driving Training Center
A favorite in Surallah, Akademia is located right across the LTO office, making it convenient for those who want to enroll and process requirements in one trip. The instructors are described as professional and calm, especially with first-time drivers. Several learners have noted how the step-by-step approach helped them overcome fear of the road early on.
- Address: JP Laurel St, Surallah, South Cotabato
- Contact Number: 09386917145
- Email Address: belgera_medical@yahoo.com
- Facebook: Akademia Driving Training Center, Inc.
Wheel’s and Training and Assessment Center, Inc.
Wheel’s is both TESDA and LTO-accredited, which means it follows clear, government-approved training protocols. The school has a structured program that guides students through the entire process, including simulation and on-road instruction. Many learners point out that the training is transparent, with clear expectations set from day one.
- Address: Purok, Vanda, Midsayap, 9410 Cotabato
- Contact Number: 09484385570
- Email Address: wheelsdriving2020@gmail.com
- Facebook: Wheel’s Training & Assessment Center
Zion Driving & Technical Skills Academy Inc.
Zion stands out for its organized classroom sessions and brand-new training vehicles. Its air-conditioned setup and quiet location contribute to a focused learning environment. Feedback from students often highlights how instructors manage to balance professionalism with a reassuring tone. This is the kind of school that helps you take driving seriously without making it feel overwhelming.
- Address: St Joseph St, General Santos City, 9500 South Cotabato
- Contact Number: 09162278043
- Email Address: ziondrivingacademy@gmail.com
- Facebook: Zion Driving & Technical Skills Academy Inc.
CEA Driving School
CEA is located in City Heights and is known for being particularly supportive of beginners. While it is not the largest school in the area, it offers a more intimate learning experience. Lessons are explained in simple terms and tailored for first-time drivers. The team is responsive, even outside class hours, which helps those who need flexible guidance.
- Address: Block 8 Guinintuan Street Blk. 4, General Santos City, South Cotabato
- Contact Number: 09465542953
- Facebook: CEA Driving School Gensan
Golden Ocean Driving Academy
Golden Ocean’s reputation is built on its structured approach and consistent teaching quality across branches. Instructors are well-reviewed for being strict when necessary, but fair and focused on developing real skill. They also offer weekend sessions for working students and have experience handling more advanced learners who want to refine specific techniques.
- Address: President Manuel Quezon Ave, General Santos City, South Cotabato
- Contact Number: 0908 660 1337
- Email Address: goldenoceandsgensan@gmail.com
- Facebook: Golden Ocean Driving Academy – GenSan
VLC Driving School
VLC focuses on safety and fundamentals. Students have said they appreciate the school’s methodical pacing, especially during practical sessions. The instructors are patient and avoid overwhelming new drivers with too many details at once. The school also provides support for administrative steps like securing permits and completing medical forms.
- Address: Osmeña Dr, Kidapawan City, Cotabato
- Contact Number: 09098818729
- Facebook: VLC Driving School
MBE Driving Academy
One of the few options in Sarangani, MBE serves as a community-based school with a practical and straightforward teaching style. It is often recommended by locals for being affordable and accommodating. The smaller class size allows for more direct instructor feedback, which helps students learn at their own pace.
- Address: CP Garcia St., Poblacion, Alabel, Sarangani Province
- Contact Number: 0960 928 8885
- Email Address: mbe.driving@gmail.com
- Facebook: MBE Driving Academy
iDRIVE Driving Tutorial
iDrive is known for affordability and wide availability. With branches across key towns, it has become a preferred option for students who want training near their homes. The school offers regular promo packages and uses clear, beginner-focused language in its instruction. Reviews often mention how flexible scheduling and digital responsiveness make the process easy from start to finish.
- Address (Koronadal Branch): VW4+MRH, Agreda New Building, Balmores St, Koronadal City, South Cotabato
- Contact Number: 09758120454
- Facebook: Idrive Driving Tutorial Marbel,Polomolok & Gensan Branch
LEE and RRJ Institute, Inc.
LEE and RRJ goes beyond the usual driving curriculum. As a TESDA-accredited institute offering Driving NC II, the school caters to those who are interested in professional-level training. The setup resembles a vocational training center more than a casual driving school, with facilities and resources that support a deeper understanding of driving as a skill and responsibility.
- Address: Bubong Road, Tamontaka Mother, Cotabato City LJ18 Autocare Building, Cotabato City, Philippines
- Contact Number: 0955 576 5378
- Email Address: leeandrrj_@yahoo.com
- Facebook: LEE and RRJ Institute, Inc.
Marvelous College of Technology, Inc.
Part of a technical institution, Marvelous College’s driving program benefits from its academic environment. Instructors have strong backgrounds not only in driving but also in automotive basics. Students appreciate the structured pace and well-equipped facilities. This is a good choice for those who prefer learning in a classroom setup with access to formal tools and resources.
- Address: M.H. Del Pilar, Koronadal, Philippines
- Email Address: marvelous.college@yahoo.com
- Facebook: Marvelous College of Technology, Inc.
Getting a driver’s license is a short process. Learning how to be a safe and confident driver takes longer. That’s why it matters where you start.
These schools offer more than just paperwork and practice drives. Choose one that will teach you properly the first time, so you won’t need to unlearn bad habits later.
If you’re ready to begin your journey, the first step is taking the LTO-required 15-hour Online Theoretical Driving Course (OTDC). You can enroll through our accredited platform and complete it at your own pace, anytime, anywhere. It’s the most convenient way to get started the right way.
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