Makene's Driving School
Welcome to Makene's Driving School, Perth's premier heavy vehicle training center with a personal touch. Established in 2000 by the Makene family, Ray and Dot, our institution combines decades of industry expertise with a relaxed, family-run atmosphere that makes learning to drive large trucks an enjoyable and stress-free experience. Whether you are a novice or looking to upgrade your skills, you will feel like you are learning from a supportive friend rather than a strict instructor.
As an authorized Department of Transport provider and registered RTO (#41213), we specialize in helping you obtain all necessary heavy vehicle licenses. Our comprehensive courses cover Light Rigid (LR), Medium Rigid (MR), Heavy Rigid (HR), Heavy Combination (HC), and Multi-Combination (MC) vehicles. Our training programs are designed to be efficient, typically ranging from 4 to 15 hours, though we understand that individual learning paces vary and offer additional hourly lessons for those who need extra practice. Our goal is to transform you into a safe, confident, and compliant driver ready for the road.
What sets us apart is our team of professionally qualified, patient, and highly experienced instructors. We are dedicated to putting you at ease behind the wheel, providing the guidance and support you need until you feel fully confident. On-site approved assessors are available daily for HR, HC, and MC license assessments, and we also offer convenient day courses that conclude with your assessment. Located conveniently in Malaga and Gnangara, we are easily accessible to serve drivers across the Perth metropolitan area.
We prioritize safety and professionalism, ensuring all students meet the required standards, including possessing a Unique Student Identifier (USI) number for RTO compliance. With a straightforward approach to customer service and clear policies, Makene's Driving School stands as a trusted partner in your journey to becoming a professional truck driver. Contact us today to discuss your licensing needs and take advantage of our special offers, including seasonal promotions for MR B (manual) courses. Trust Perth's leading heavy vehicle experts to get you licensed quickly and safely.
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Our comment from DrivingSchools.Directory about Makene's Driving School:
A Trusted Choice for Heavy Vehicle Training
Makene’s Driving School is widely recognized as a premier provider for truck and heavy vehicle licensing in Perth. The company specializes in professional training for various heavy vehicle permits, including Light Rigid (LR), Heavy Rigid (HR), Medium Rigid (MR), and Multidrop (MC). With a reputation built on industry expertise, the school offers comprehensive courses designed to equip students with the practical skills needed for a career in transport, as well as training for personal vehicle upgrades.
Expert Instructors and Patient Guidance
The most frequently praised aspect of Makene’s is its team of instructors, who are consistently described as calm, knowledgeable, and patient. Many students highlight specific trainers like Tim, Eddie, Alex, Allan, and Craig for their ability to create a supportive learning environment that reduces anxiety. Instructors are noted for their clear, step-by-step teaching methods, focusing not just on passing the test but on ensuring students become safe, competent drivers. This patient approach is particularly appreciated by beginners and those transitioning from smaller vehicles to heavy rigs.
Supportive Team and Quality Vehicles
Students consistently commend the entire staff, from the front desk office personnel to the assessors, for being friendly, professional, and accommodating. The administrative team is often highlighted for providing clear information and flexible booking arrangements, even for students traveling from outlying areas. Additionally, the training fleet is generally well-regarded, with many reviews praising the trucks for being well-maintained, comfortable, and easy to drive, which contributes significantly to a positive learning experience.
High Success Rates and Value
A significant number of students report passing their heavy vehicle tests on the first attempt, attributing their success to the thorough preparation provided by the school. While the pricing is considered fair by many, the school also emphasizes quality training over rushed courses. The combination of experienced instructors, well-kept vehicles, and a welcoming atmosphere makes Makene’s Driving School a highly recommended destination for anyone seeking to obtain or upgrade their truck driving license.
Makene's Driving School: Reviews
Reviews are the opinions of their authors. We do not verify that the author was a customer.
The most recent reviews on Google
4,3 out of 5 from 129 reviews
Fantastic experience: Huge shoutout to Tim at Makene’s Truck Driving Lessons for getting me across the finish line! The “Mighty Duck” truck and wonderfully calm, chilled Kiwi-Tim were the perfect combination. His steady guidance, patience, and confidence-building approach made all the difference. Thanks to Tim’s expert instruction, I officially have my Medium Rigid Manual license and even scored some Makene’s merch to celebrate! I couldn’t recommend Tim at Malaga highly enough. If you’re looking for a calm, supportive, knowledgeable instructor who genuinely wants you to succeed, he’s your person. I’m so proud to now be able to drive the school bus for our Inclusive Ed students I have a whole new level of empathy for the kids going for their licenses. The time, money, nerves, and sheer determination it takes is no small thing, even for us oldies, I found the testing process extremely stressful as I really wanted to succeed and was so nervous. Also the girls on the phone taking my initial enquiry seemed genuinely nice people as they were always patient and understanding with clear info, as first port of call this, to me, was important and is what made me look no further. What a great team at Rae Makene's Driving School. Thank you
Negative experience: I booked 1 hour of Road Ranger training with Makens and was very disappointed with the experience. The trainer arrived 15 minutes late, which already reduced my booked time. The truck was in very poor condition — the driver’s seat could not be adjusted at all, making it uncomfortable and unsafe to drive. The clutch was extremely hard, far worse than any road ranger truck I’ve driven before. Actual driving time was less than 30 minutes, mostly just going around the block, yet I was charged $170 for a full hour. Overall, the session felt rushed and not worth the money. I expected professional training and a properly maintained vehicle. Unfortunately, this was not the case. I would not return and would not recommend this training provider.
Fantastic experience: I did a 4hr lesson and then a test with Tim . He was absolutely amazing . I passed so that was brilliant but Tim made me feel comfortable and confident driving. I highly recommend
Fantastic experience: After a disappointing experience at West Aus Driver Training where the instructor made some negative comments about Makene's I decided to switch schools. I'm so glad I did! My time with Makene's, especially with instructor Tim, was outstanding. His calm, patient approach created a supportive and positive learning environment that helped me adapt quickly and confidently to the vehicle. Highly recommend Makene's for anyone looking for quality heavy vehicle training in Perth Damir @ Furniture Taxi
Fantastic experience: I completed my MR training and test yesterday. Tim was knowledgeable and provided clear, helpful feedback throughout the session. He was calm and patient, which created a comfortable and supportive learning environment.
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