American Driving Academy comprehensive professionally-certified instruction and behind-the-wheel sessions and road tests. The Hudson Valley’s most reliable driver training. We teach students more than how to drive… we teach our students how to anticipate, avoid, and survive the hazards on the open road.
Private Driving Packages
- Road Test Escort: 2-hour test prep & escort Includes a one-hour review and preparation before the road test. More info
- 6-Hour Private 1:1 Driving Lessons: 6 hours behind the wheel. More info
- 10-Hour Private 1:1 Driving Lessons: 10 hours behind the wheel. More info
New York State Driving Courses
The American Driving Academy is a New York State licensed Driving School teaching safe driving habits and skills. We offer the following driving courses, classes, and packages:
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- Driver Education
- Road Test Preparation & Escorts
- 5-Hour Pre-Licensing Course
- Online Defensive Driving Courses
- Private Driving Lessons
- 6-Hour Defensive Driving Courses
- NYS DMV Point Insurance Reduction Program (Get Your 10% Discount for 3 Years)
Mission Statement: The American Driving Academy, Inc. (ADA) provides professional, courteous Driver Training to new drivers of all ages and ensures a safe, friendly, and stress-free learning environment.
Teen Driver & Adult Driver Education Courses
Promotes Safe Driving, Qualifies for Insurance Discounts, and Earns a Senior License. ADA provides in-car behind-the-wheel training through the following School Districts:
Driver Education: Wappingers Central School District
Driver Education: Dutchess Community College
Driver Education: Spackenkill UFSD
Certified Driving Courses Offered
This course teaches students the proper techniques, laws, and responsibilities about driving in New York State. Successful completion of this course provides a Student NYS Certificate of Completion:
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- May receive your Senior license at age of 17
- Allows a 10-15% premium reduction through most insurance companies
- Receive 48 hours of instruction
- Certified instructors
- 5-hour NYS Pre-Licensing Certification may include
- High School credit is available through most districts
- Strong focus on topics including speed, distracted driving, inexperience, and the use of seat belts
The program consists of 24 hours of classroom instruction and 24 hours of on-road instruction as mandated by the New York State Department of Education. Students must be at least 16 years of age and have a valid NYS Permit or License before the start date ALL CLASSES ARE MANDATORY. Road assignments are for 90-minute time blocks and will be assigned at mandatory orientation. Students are assigned to drive by arrangement with a coordinator and in-car instructor. In-car sessions are assigned on a first-registered/first-served basis.
Note: Before registering please consider your other time commitments that might interfere with your full participation in this program. No refund will be given after the business day before each section of the program begins.
Parents are encouraged to attend Orientation with students. Make-up road hours for excused absences only may carry an additional charge of $20 per student per session. In-car sessions may extend beyond the in-class dates listed below. If registering a minor for these courses you will be sent an Emergency Medical Authorization Form which must be completed and brought to the instructor at the first class. Class size is limited. Register early.
American Driving Academy History
In 1986 our family started the American Motorcycle Driving School, Inc. (AMDS) in Stormville, New York. Presently, AMDS, Inc., is successfully running and offering the KICKSTART Motorcycle Training Series (MTS). In 1997 Christine E (Marafioti) Firehock decided to expand the family business to incorporate Auto Driving Training. She began her journey of research and college studies to build an extensive knowledge of both in-car and lecture material.
In 2001 Ms. Firehock opened The American Driving Academy, Inc. offering private in-car lessons and contracting with the local Colleges to offer Driver Education. ADA is certified to offer: 5-hour Courses, NYS DDC PIRP Benefits, and Graduated Licensing Benefits to minors via Driver Education.
Driver Education Graduates may receive their Senior Driving Privileges one year earlier than their peers (age 17), and be eligible for Insurance Discounts. In the 16 sessions, students learn the value of safe driving habits in the classroom and safe driving skills behind the wheel.
Learn to Ride a Motorcycle
KICKSTART MTS (Kickstart Motorcycle Training and Christine Firehock continue to promote and improve the education, service, and availability of safe and enjoyable riding habits to new riders everywhere. Whether you’re a new rider just starting or a seasoned pro looking to take it up a notch, KICKSTART MTS will give you the skills and education you need and want to learn. For more information visit KICKSTART MTS website.