J.C.E Driving School

Deeply Disappointing / Concerning Experience / Refund issues / Met with threats

This review reflects my genuine experience as a paying customer and is intended to help others make informed decisions. I booked driving lessons with a local driving school and made an upfront EFT payment of R2,780 for a 10-hour driving package, expecting proper behind-the-wheel instruction. Unfortunately, my first lesson was both exhausting and disappointing. Out of a 1 hour and 20-minute session, I spent the majority of the time parked in a stationary vehicle while the instructor read through printed terms and conditions. I drove for less than five minutes - simply around the block. I was then told that this short drive counted as my first full lesson, which I found completely unacceptable and not reflective of the service advertised in her contract. When I requested a refund for the remaining lessons (agreeing to pay for the single session attended), The instructor initially agreed but imposed unreasonable conditions: A 15–20 business day refund period, a 10% admin fee, and additional charges for time spent stationary - none of which were ever mentioned beforehand or stated in any contract or quotation. After several follow-ups over the next three days with no official confirmation of time frames to expect the payment, I was informed that the school had “closed for two weeks due to a medical emergency.” At that point, I began to doubt whether I would ever receive my refund. An individual claiming to be a business partner later contacted me, offering an immediate refund if I provided my banking details. When I refused to share my account information with a stranger and stated that I would handle the matter directly with my bank, I was met with intimidating voice messages, including threats of legal action and comments suggesting that this person “knew where I stayed.” He mentioned he will spend as much money as it takes to sue me and "Put me in my place" and that should be ashamed of myself for inflicting further grief on a woman who is in hospital. This was extremely distressing and highly unprofessional, all personal matters aside - I simply wanted my refund. I found it strange how this matter is all being pinned on me!! Despite my repeated requests for transparency and identification from both parties, I received no response. The instructor also continued messaging me afterward, urging me to withdraw my bank dispute and to once again “leave the refund in her hands.” Important update: On Thursday (Just a day after being told the instructor was hospitalized), a trustworthy family member contacted the driving school to inquire about lessons. The instructor appeared both available and willing to assist, contradicting earlier claims that she was in ICU and unfit to work. I have followed the correct procedures with my bank and will update this review once the investigation concludes. For anyone considering lessons with this driving school, I strongly recommend verifying the instructor’s credentials, refund policies, and business legitimacy before making any upfront payments.