Terms and Conditions

Welcome to Empathy Driving School, providing calm, supportive and confidence-building driving tuition in Carlton and across Nottingham.

By booking or taking a lesson, you agree to the following Terms and Conditions:

1. General Information

   Empathy Driving School is operated by Robert “Rob” Hines. All lessons are conducted in accordance with DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) requirements. The aim is always to create a positive, safe and respectful learning environment.

2. Driving Licence and Legal Requirements

   You must hold a valid UK provisional (or full) driving licence.

   You must bring your licence to your first lesson.

   You are responsible for ensuring you are fit and legally able to drive at all times.

   Lessons cannot take place if you are (including but not limited to being) under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication that affects driving.

3. Lesson Bookings and Payments

   Lessons can be booked individually or as a block package.

   Payment is required at the time of booking unless agreed otherwise.

   Accepted payment methods include bank transfer or cash.

   Block bookings must be used within 6 months of purchase (unless agreed otherwise).

   Prices are confirmed at the time of booking and may change periodically.

4. Cancellations and Rescheduling

   Please give at least 48 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule a lesson.

   Lessons cancelled with less than 48 hours’ notice may be charged in full.

   If Rob needs to cancel a lesson (e.g. illness, weather, or vehicle maintenance), you’ll be offered a new date at no extra cost.

   Repeated short-notice cancellations may lead to loss of future bookings.

5. Punctuality

   Please be ready at the agreed time and location for your lesson.

   Lessons will finish at the scheduled time even if you arrive late.

   If the instructor is delayed, the lost time will be added or credited.

6. Safety and Behaviour

   Pupils must follow all instructions to ensure safe driving practice.

   Lessons may be ended immediately if the pupil is unfit to drive.

   The training vehicle is fully insured for tuition and driving tests.

   Dashcams may be used for safety and training purposes.

7. Driving Tests

   Pupils are responsible for booking their own driving test unless agreed otherwise.

   The use of the instructor’s car for a driving test is at the instructor’s discretion and depends on test readiness and vehicle safety.

   Test-day arrangements and any related fees will be agreed in advance.

8. Refunds

   Refunds for unused block lessons may be given at the instructor’s discretion.

   Any lessons already taken will be charged at the standard hourly rate before a refund is calculated.

   No refunds are issued for late cancellations.

9. Data Protection and Privacy

   Personal information (such as your name, contact details, and driving progress) is kept securely and used only for lesson administration.

   Information will never be shared with third parties without your consent.

   For full details, see our separate Privacy Policy.

10. Liability

    While every effort is made to ensure safety, Empathy Driving School cannot accept liability for any injury, loss, or damage arising during lessons, except where required by law.

    Pupils are responsible for any fines or penalties incurred through their own actions during lessons or tests.

11. Complaints

    If you have a concern, please speak to Rob directly so it can be resolved quickly and fairly.

    If you’re still unsatisfied, you may contact the DVSA for independent advice or complaint handling.

12. Updates to Terms

    These Terms & Conditions may be updated periodically. The most recent version will always be available on the website.

Empathy Driving School is built on compassion, connection, and confidence.

By agreeing to these terms, you help maintain a safe, fair, and respectful learning experience for everyone.