Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Driving School in Albuquerque, NM
McGinnis has been dedicated to driver education in New Mexico since 1964. Founded by Wyett McGinnis, the business has grown to become the oldest and largest driving school in the state, with a legacy of training over 320,000 students. David W. McGinnis expanded the family-owned operation for 50 years before transitioning ownership to Joleta Spears in 2023, who continues the tradition of excellence. Our team combines over 100 years of collective experience, with instructors certified through the New Mexico Department of Transportation and specialized training in defensive driving, DWI prevention, and psychological aspects of safe driving. We offer comprehensive programs exceeding state requirements, including classroom instruction, behind-the-wheel training, and MVD testing.Our proprietary curriculum, 'How to Drive and Survive,' is updated quarterly to ensure relevance and compliance with national standards. With three convenient locations in Albuquerque and flexible scheduling, we prioritize accessibility and customer satisfaction. Our vehicles and facilities feature audio/video recording for safety and quality assurance. Students benefit from potential insurance discounts and personalized instruction tailored to individual needs. For over six decades, we have maintained a reputation as the standard for driver education in New Mexico.
Services
Driver Education
MVD Testing
Private Lessons
Driver Assessment
Passenger-Side Safety Brake
Details
- Year established: 1964
Highlights and features
- 58 years of experience training over 320,000 New Mexico drivers
- Certified instructors with 10+ years average tenure
- Same-day MVD testing appointments available
- Proprietary curriculum updated quarterly for accuracy
- Vehicles equipped with audio/video safety recording systems
Associations and certifications
- New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT)
What people say
Great instructor experience
Exceeded state requirements
Same-day testing available
Insurance discount benefit
Family tradition of excellence
Services
Driver Education
Our comprehensive driver education programs exceed New Mexico's minimum requirements with 30+ hours of classroom instruction and 7-50 hours of behind-the-wheel training. Certified instructors teach defensive driving, DWI prevention, and psychological aspects of safe driving. Students receive workbooks, access to our proprietary e-textbook, and MVD certification for license requirements.
MVD Testing
We offer state-certified MVD written exams and road tests using our vehicles. Same-day appointments available with shorter wait times than government offices. Packages combine written and road tests for convenience. Our 25-minute road test includes vehicle use and professional evaluation.
Private Lessons
One-on-one private driving lessons available in our vehicles for licensed drivers seeking additional training. Sessions focus on specific skill development for mature drivers, post-convalescence practice, or remedial instruction. Packages available for 5-14 hour commitments with discounted rates.
Passenger-Side Safety Brake
Controller passenger-side safety brake system designed for parent-supervised practice. Installs in seconds and transfers between vehicles. Meets state training requirements while providing added safety during practice hours. Available for purchase to complement our driver education programs.
E-Textbook Access
24/7 access to our proprietary 'How to Drive and Survive' e-textbook throughout course duration. Updated quarterly to maintain compliance with national curriculum standards. Includes interactive elements and practice questions mirroring official MVD exams for comprehensive preparation.
People
Wyett McGinnis
Founder
Established New Mexico's first driver safety center in 1964. Pioneered comprehensive driver education programs that set industry standards. Laid foundation for family-owned business legacy spanning six decades.
David W. McGinnis
Former Owner
50-year veteran instructor who led operations from 1993-2023. Expanded services while maintaining family tradition of excellence. Trained over 320,000 students and mentored current leadership team.
Joleta Spears
Current Owner
Took ownership in 2023 after extensive hands-on experience in all operations. Brings business management expertise while preserving McGinnis educational legacy. Maintains family tradition of certified instruction and community service.
Questions
What driver education packages do you offer?
We offer five packages ranging from basic state requirements to premium options with 50 hours behind-the-wheel training. Prices start at $465 and go up to $2,930.
Do you provide MVD testing services?
Yes, we're state-certified to administer both written and road tests using our vehicles. Same-day appointments often available with shorter wait times than government offices.
Can I get insurance discounts for completing your course?
Most students qualify for up to 25% insurance discounts. Check with your provider for specific details and requirements.
What payment options are available?
We accept cash, checks, money orders, and all major credit cards. Secure online payments available through your student portal.
Do you offer private driving lessons?
Yes, one-hour private lessons start at $60. Package deals available for 5+ hours. Lessons focus on specific skill development for experienced drivers.
Is your curriculum up-to-date with state requirements?
Our proprietary 'How to Drive and Survive' textbook updates quarterly to maintain compliance with New Mexico Traffic Safety Division standards.