The OGSM framework (Objectives, Goals, Strategies, and Measures) is most famously implemented at Proctor and Gamble, and other fortune 500 companies, where planning cycles are longer and alignment across massive hierarchies are especially challenging. However, in a startup environment a good goal setting framework is critical to create longer-term focus in a changing environment. At Coastline, we have adapted the OGSM framework to suit our needs, and the resulting process helps maintain alignment and focus across our departments. I will share the three key adaptations that helped us get the most out of OGSMs without becoming overburdened by the process itself. But first, a quick overview of OGSMs.

OGSM stands for Objectives, Goals, Strategies, and Metrics. Objectives are action statements, like “Hire instructors” or “Increase vehicle utilization”, and Goals are related numbers and dates, like “300 by May 2024” or “80% by Q3”. Each Objective-Goal pair is supported by a number (we like 3-5) of Strategy-Measure pairs, which follow the same format as Objectives and Goals. Then each Strategy-Measure pair becomes the Objective and Goal for the next level. Alright, let’s get to our lessons learned.

Like OKRs, OGSMs are structurally nested. Each OG has a set of SMs, and then in the next level down, each SM becomes a OG, which has a set of SMs. The temptation can be to keep going down to 5, 6, or more levels mapping out the finest details. However, that becomes overly burdensome when it comes to monthly reviews. It also escalates to become it’s own work. Why not use that time to get the job done? OGSM is a great goal setting framework, but a sub-part task management framework. We have found we are much more efficient when using OGSMs to around 3 levels, and then using task management tools like Asana or Github to manage the work that contributes to the lowest level Strategies and Goals.

Objectives can be financial or non-financial

As a mission-oriented company, we have a purpose beyond financial results. While OGSM is typically applied as a framework to drive activities that roll up into financial objectives, it works well as a tool for creating alignment around activities that roll up to any kind of objective. We apply it to objectives like “Be a great place to learn for our customers” with the Goal “maintain NPS>80”. In doing so, we can align priorities around mission-based objectives that don’t necessarily have a direct throughline to financial goals.

Organizations with tens of thousands of employees might be able to set OGSMs for the year with few or no changes other than scoring. When you only have a few hundred employees, and a rapid rate of growth, things change throughout the year. It would be foolish to stick to pre-set OGSMs just for the sake of it when priorities change. We find it works best to set OGSMs before the new year starts, score our progress each month, and then check in quarterly on what change we need to make. That way, we ensure that our OGSMs reflect our priorities, and keeps everyone focused on the right things.

To summarize, I’ll leave you with this: a goal setting framework like OGSM is a tool that you can use to achieve results as a team, but it shouldn’t be a goal in and of itself. At the end of the day it’s about the results. Resist the temptation to dogmatically rigorously apply a process that becomes a project for it’s own sake. We have found that we get the most out of the process when we keep it lightweight and give ourselves the flexibility to make changes when the business needs them. At Coastline, OGSM is one of many tools to achieve focus and productivity.

Implementing OGSM, a fortune-500 goal-setting framework at a startup

Implementing a fortune-500 goal-setting framework at a startup

A Startup-Centric Implementation of OGSM at Coastline Academy

Last updated March 4, 2025

Welcome!

We’re thrilled that you decided to use Coastline’s products and services, which include our apps, driver training, drivers education course, and website, all of which we will just call the “Services”. We work hard to provide a great experience for you, including these very words, so we’re so glad that you are reading this.

We wrote these Terms of Service (which we will call the “Terms” below) to explain the rules that govern our relationship with you. As part of our commitment to building a great relationship with you, we’ve done our best to use plain English in these Terms. There is still some legalese throughout though, and for good reason: these Terms form a legally binding contract between you and Coastline. Throughout these Terms, we’ll use words like “we”, “us”, “our”, “Coastline”, etc., which refer to Coastline Academy.

In addition to these Terms, you also need to agree to our approach to Privacy. We’ve outlined that approach in our Privacy Notice, which we ask you kindly to read as well.

By using the Services, you are agreeing to the Terms. If you don’t agree with these terms, then do not use the Services.

One more thing before we jump into it - THESE TERMS INCLUDE AN ARBITRATION CLAUSE. That means both you and Coastline waive the right to go to court or file class actions in most cases. You should seriously read section 12 and make sure you are okay with it.

The Services are meant for people who are old enough to legally hold a driver’s license or permit. That said, you can’t be under the age of 13 and use the Services. If we find out that you are, we’ll have to cancel your account, sorry.

By using the Services, you state that:

- You can form a binding contract with Coastline - You will comply with these Terms and all applicable local, state, national, and international laws, rules, and regulations.

If you are using the Services on behalf of a business or some other entity, you state that you are authorized to grant all licenses set forth in these Terms and to agree to these Terms on behalf of the business or entity.

Driving a vehicle is a dangerous activity, and our goal is to make it more safe. Driving is especially dangerous if you are distracted by a mobile device. One feature of our app is to log your drive. Start your log before getting in the car and then put your phone in the trunk, glovebox, or other place where it will not be a distraction to you. Do not use the Coastline app in any way that could be distracting to you while driving.

If you sign up for a paid product or service, you agree to pay us the fees listed.

Driving lessons are pre-paid, meaning you pay for one or more lessons at the time of booking. After you make the payment, your account will have credit for the number of lesson hours included in the package you purchased, for example, 2 hours for a single lesson or 6 hours for a package of three lessons. You may use the credits to book lessons any time for a twelve month period. Any remaining, un-used lesson hours in your account expire after 12 months. When un-used lesson credits expire, you may re-purchase those lessons at a discounted price of 35% of the current price (a 65% discount). The discount only applies to un-used lessons that expired and not as a result of cancellation fees, change fees, no-show fees, or other fees incurred. Additional lessons may be purchased at full price.

Refunds are available for six (6) months from the date of purchase. If, during this time, you want your remaining balance refunded, please email hello@coastlineacademy.com. The packages that include multiple lessons generally cost less than buying each lesson individually. To calculate the refund amount for any unused portion of a package, we take the amount you paid and deduct the then-current full cost of any lessons you took. The end result is intended to be the same as if you were to have purchased each lesson taken at the time they were taken. That means that if you bought a package of three lessons and took two, the refund for the third lesson may be less than 33% of the package price. By way of example, if a package of 3 lessons was purchased for $550, and two lessons were taken, each valued at $200, then the refund for the third lesson would be $150. We will initiate the refund to your original method of payment within 5 business days. Refunds may take several days to be reflected on your credit card.

By registering and paying for a service with Coastline, you are agreeing to pay any fees described herein. In the event of non-payment of fees, Coastline reserves the right to pause user accounts, and/or withhold any final certificates or completion documents until payment is received in full. This may result in temporary loss of access to course materials and services.

A $10 processing fee will be charged for any duplicate certificate issued.

One of the ways we create a great experience for instructors is helping them manage an efficient schedule. At the same time, we get that life gets in the way sometimes, and it’s important to us that we are able to provide as much flexibility as possible for students. We believe that the best balance is achieved by providing total flexibility for you to cancel or rebook lessons 72 hours or more prior to your lesson, and charge a cancellation or change fee within 72 hours. The cancellation or change fees are as follows:

Changes or cancellations made at least 72 hours prior to the lesson start: free

Changes or cancellations made between 72 hours and 24 hours prior of the lesson start: 35% of the lesson value

Within 24 hours, no shows, or changes or cancellations made after the lesson start: full lesson price

Our business is evolving, and that means we need to be able to make changes from time to time. We may, at our sole discretion change or replace parts of these Terms. Although we may attempt to notify you when major changes are made to these Terms, you should check back from time to time to see if anything has changed. Continuing to use the Services after we make changes means you accept those changes. At some point, we will likely offer new services and/or features, and those will be subject to these Terms too.

We work tirelessly to improve our Services and are creating new ones all the time. That means we may add or remove features, products, or functionalities, and we may also suspend or stop the Services altogether. We may take any of these actions at any time, and when we do, we may not provide you with any notice beforehand.

While we hope you use Coastline for life, you can terminate these Terms at any time and for any reason by requesting that we delete your account.

7.1 Disclaimer of Warranties.Except as described in 7.2, The Services are provided "as is". You acknowledge that the Services, currently offered are in active development. There may be errors, bugs, inaccuracies, or other problems, and may not be fully functional.

To the fullest extent allowable by applicable law, we and our suppliers and licensors hereby disclaim all warranties of any kind, express or implied, including, without limitation, the warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose and non-infringement. Neither Coastline nor its suppliers and licensors make any warranty that the Services will work perfectly or that access thereto will be continuous or uninterrupted. You understand that you use the Services at your own discretion and risk.

7.2 Coastline Guarantee. We believe in our instructors and are confident that you will have an excellent experience learning to drive with us. If for any reason you are unsatisfied with the lesson you receive, we will make it right. Please let us know that the lesson didn't meet your expectations, and we can redo your lesson either with the same instructor or a different one, at your option. If you prefer, you may instead get a refund for the lesson. The refund or redo is limited to the most recently received lesson, so please let us know as soon as possible after your lesson if there is anything we can do better.

In no event will Coastline, or its suppliers or licensors, be liable with respect to any subject matter of these Terms under any contract, negligence, strict liability or other legal or equitable theory for: (i) any special, incidental or consequential damages; (ii) the cost of procurement for substitute products or services; (iii) for interruption of use or loss or corruption of data; or (iv) for any amounts that exceed the fees paid by you to Coastline under these Terms during the twelve (12) month period prior to the cause of action. Coastline shall have no liability for any failure or delay due to matters beyond their reasonable control. The foregoing shall not apply to the extent prohibited by applicable law.

You represent and warrant that (i) your use of the Services will be in strict accordance with the Coastline Privacy Notice, with these Terms and with all applicable laws and regulations (including without limitation any local laws or regulations in your country, state, city, or other governmental area, regarding online conduct and acceptable content, and including all applicable laws regarding the transmission of technical data exported from the United States or the country in which you reside) and (ii) your use of the Services will not infringe or misappropriate the intellectual property rights of any third party.

You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Coastline, its contractors, and its licensors, and their respective directors, officers, employees and agents from and against any and all claims and expenses, including attorneys' fees, arising out of your use of the Services, including but not limited to your violation of these Terms.

Except to the extent applicable law, if any, provides otherwise, these Terms and any access to or use of the Services will be governed by the laws of the state in which the service was to take place, excluding its conflict of law provisions, and the proper venue for any disputes arising out of or relating to any of the same will be the state and federal courts located in that state.

12.1.Generally.In the interest of resolving disputes between you and Coastline in the most expedient and cost effective manner, and except as described in Section 12.2, you and Coastline agree that every dispute arising in connection with these Terms will be resolved by binding arbitration. Arbitration is less formal than a lawsuit in court. Arbitration uses a neutral arbitrator instead of a judge or jury, may allow for more limited discovery than in court, and can be subject to very limited review by courts. Arbitrators can award the same damages and relief that a court can award. This agreement to arbitrate disputes includes all claims arising out of or relating to any aspect of these Terms, whether based in contract, tort, statute, fraud, misrepresentation, or any other legal theory, and regardless of whether a claim arises during or after the termination of these Terms. YOU UNDERSTAND AND AGREE THAT, BY ENTERING INTO THESE TERMS, YOU AND COASTLINE ARE EACH WAIVING THE RIGHT TO A TRIAL BY JURY OR TO PARTICIPATE IN A CLASS ACTION.

12.2.Exceptions.Despite the provisions of Section 12.1, nothing in these Terms will be deemed to waive, preclude, or otherwise limit the right of either party to: (a) bring an individual action in small claims court; (b) pursue an enforcement action through the applicable federal, state, or local agency if that action is available; (c) seek injunctive relief in a court of law in aid of arbitration; or (d) to file suit in a court of law to address an intellectual property infringement claim.

12.3.Arbitrator.Any arbitration between you and Coastline will be settled under the Federal Arbitration Act and administered by the American Arbitration Association (“AAA”) under its Consumer Arbitration Rules (collectively, “AAA Rules”) as modified by these Terms. The AAA Rules and filing forms are available online at www.adr.org, by calling the AAA at 1-800-778-7879, or by contacting Coastline. The arbitrator has exclusive authority to resolve any dispute relating to the interpretation, applicability, or enforceability of this binding arbitration agreement.12.4. Notice of Arbitration; Process.A party who intends to seek arbitration must first send a written notice of the dispute to the other party by certified U.S. Mail or by Federal Express (signature required) or, only if that other party has not provided a current physical address, then by electronic mail (“Notice of Arbitration”). Coastline's address for Notice is: 3707 Madison Ave. North Highlands, CA 95660. The Notice of Arbitration must: (a) describe the nature and basis of the claim or dispute; and (b) set forth the specific relief sought (“Demand”). The parties will make good faith efforts to resolve the claim directly, but if the parties do not reach an agreement to do so within 30 days after the Notice of Arbitration is received, you or Coastline may commence an arbitration proceeding. During the arbitration, the amount of any settlement offer made by you or Coastline must not be disclosed to the arbitrator until after the arbitrator makes a final decision and award, if any. If the arbitrator awards you an amount higher than the last written settlement amount offered by Coastline in settlement of the dispute prior to the arbitrator’s award, Coastline will pay you the highest of the following: (i) the amount awarded by the arbitrator; or (ii) attorney’s fees incurred by you.

12.5.Fees.If you commence arbitration in accordance with these Terms, Coastline will reimburse you for your payment of the filing fee, unless your claim is for more than $10,000, in which case the payment of any fees will be decided by the AAA Rules. Any arbitration hearing will take place at a location to be agreed upon in within the county that the service was to take place, or in the case of an online service, the county in which Coastline's main office is in the state for which the online course is licensed, but if the claim is for $10,000 or less, you may choose whether the arbitration will be conducted: (a) solely on the basis of documents submitted to the arbitrator; (b) through a non-appearance based telephone hearing; or (c) by an in-person hearing as established by the AAA Rules in the county (or parish) of your billing address. If the arbitrator finds that either the substance of your claim or the relief sought in the Demand is frivolous or brought for an improper purpose (as measured by the standards set forth in Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 11(b)), then the payment of all fees will be governed by the AAA Rules. In that case, you agree to reimburse Coastline for all monies previously disbursed by it that are otherwise your obligation to pay under the AAA Rules. Regardless of the manner in which the arbitration is conducted, the arbitrator must issue a reasoned written decision sufficient to explain the essential findings and conclusions on which the decision and award, if any, are based. The arbitrator may make rulings and resolve disputes as to the payment and reimbursement of fees or expenses at any time during the proceeding and upon request from either party made within 14 days of the arbitrator’s ruling on the merits.

12.6.No Class Actions.YOU AND COASTLINE AGREE THAT EACH MAY BRING CLAIMS AGAINST THE OTHER ONLY IN YOUR OR ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY AND NOT AS A PLAINTIFF OR CLASS MEMBER IN ANY PURPORTED CLASS OR REPRESENTATIVE PROCEEDING. Further, unless both you and Coastline agree otherwise, the arbitrator may not consolidate more than one person’s claims, and may not otherwise preside over any form of a representative or class proceeding.

12.7.Modifications to this Arbitration Provision.If Coastline makes any future change to this arbitration provision, other than a change to Coastline's address for Notice of Arbitration, you may reject the change by sending us written notice within 30 days of the change to Coastline's address for Notice of Arbitration, in which case your account with Coastline will be immediately terminated and this arbitration provision, as in effect immediately prior to the changes you rejected will survive.

12.8.Enforceability.If Section 12.6 is found to be unenforceable or if the entirety of this Section 13 is found to be unenforceable, then the entirety of this Section 13 will be null and void and, in that case, the parties agree that the exclusive jurisdiction and venue described in Section titled “Choice of Law” will govern any action arising out of or related to these Terms.

If any part of these Terms are held invalid or unenforceable, that part will be construed to reflect the parties' original intent, and the remaining portions will remain in full force and effect. A waiver by either party of any term or condition of these Terms or any breach thereof, in any one instance, will not waive such term or condition or any subsequent breach thereof.

You may assign your rights under these Terms to any party that consents to, and agrees to be bound by, its terms and conditions; Coastline may assign its rights under these Terms without condition. These Terms will be binding upon and will inure to the benefit of the parties, their successors and permitted assigns.

These Terms, along with our Privacy Notice constitutes the entire agreement between Coastline and you concerning the subject matter hereof, and they may only be modified by a written amendment signed by an authorized executive of Coastline, or by the posting by Coastline of a revised version.

Congratulations, you made it to the end! We appreciate you taking the time to read these Terms, and for using our Services. We look forward to providing the best experience we can. If you have any questions or concerns about what you’ve just read, please reach out to us at privacy@coastlineacademy.com. Thank you, from all of us here at Coastline.

Wearing a mask is now optional for all students and instructors. If you would prefer to wear a mask during your lesson, please inform your instructor and they will oblige.

As both school districts and public transport remove their mask requirements, and as the CDC confirms that case numbers are continuing to decrease, we’re updating our mask policy to “Masks required*” moving forward.

That asterisk after “masks required” represents the idea that each student and instructor should show up to the driving lesson expecting to wear a mask, while knowing that the mask can be removed when all three of the following criteria are met:

That the numbers in their county are low, per the CDC site

That the student is comfortable or would prefer to remove their mask

That the instructor is comfortable or would prefer to remove their mask

At the beginning of a lesson, an instructor may indicate to a student that if they would like, the student can remove their mask for this lesson.

However, if either the student or the instructor would prefer to remain masked in the vehicle, it’s understood that both will keep their mask on for the duration of the lesson. 

For our students, you can check how the CDC is classifying the risk in your county by following this link here.

For our COVID-19 mask policy update, these changes will be going into effect immediately. Beginning, Friday, October 14, 2022, the mask policy has changed to “Masks Required*” for all students and driving instructors.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our friendly support staff. If you want to start your driver's training journey with Coastline Academy, make sure to sign up for Drivers Ed and book your driving lesson today.

With numbers declining and mask requirements changing, Coastline Academy has announced updates to its Covid-19 mask policy during driving lessons.

Coastline Academy is announcing changes to its Covid-19 mask policy for driving lessons.

Coastline Academy Updates Its Covid-19 Mask Policy

Having the proper safety equipment in your car is crucial for protecting yourself and your passengers in case of an accident or emergency. Here are the essential safety items you should have in your car.

First aid kit: This should include bandages, antiseptic solution, gauze, scissors, and adhesive tape.

Fire extinguisher: A small, multi-purpose fire extinguisher can help you put out a small fire before it grows out of control.

Warning triangles/flares: These items can help alert other drivers of an accident or breakdown, especially at night or in low visibility conditions.

Spare tire and tools: Make sure you have a properly inflated spare tire, jack, and lug wrench to change a flat tire if needed.

Jumper cables: In case your car battery dies, you can jump start it using another vehicle with these cables.

Flashlight and extra batteries: A flashlight can come in handy during nighttime breakdowns or other emergencies.

Reflective vest: Wearing a reflective vest can make you more visible if you need to walk along the road to get help.

Portable phone charger: Keeping a fully charged portable phone charger in your car can ensure you can make emergency calls or use your phone for GPS.

Blanket: If you get stuck in cold weather or have to wait for help, a blanket can keep you warm.

Water and non-perishable snacks: In case you get stuck in traffic or have to wait for help, having water and snacks on hand can help you stay hydrated and energized.

It's also a good idea to regularly check and maintain your car's brakes, tires, and other essential systems to ensure they are in good working order. Be sure to add these critical pieces of equipment to your vehicle before an emergency happens.

Having the proper safety equipment in your car is crucial for protecting yourself and your passengers in case of an accident or emergency.

What safety equipment should you have in your car?

We know it can be an exciting time for you, as you get your learner's permit and get behind the wheel for the very first time. We also know it can be a nerve-wracking time. You are stressed about finding a good driving school. Then you are worried about taking a driving lesson with a professional driving instructor, who happens to be a complete stranger to you. That is why the driving instructors at Coastline Academy are focused on providing you with a safe learning experience.

A good driving school can provide you with the knowledge, skills and experience necessary to become a safe and confident driver. It can also help you prepare for and pass your driving test, which is required in most states in order to obtain a driver's license. While you can get training from a relative or friend, many people prefer the option of learning from a driving school and professional driving instructors, like Coastline Academy.

A driving instructor is a person who is trained and licensed to teach individuals how to operate a motor vehicle, typically a car. Driving instructors are often employed by driving schools or work as independent contractors. They typically work with students who are learning to drive for the first time or who are preparing to take a driving test to obtain a driver's license.

Driving instructors may also work with experienced drivers who want to improve their driving skills or learn to drive a different type of vehicle, such as a truck or bus. In addition to teaching students how to operate a vehicle safely and effectively, driving instructors may also teach students about traffic laws and regulations, road signs and proper driving techniques.

At Coastline Academy, we go above and beyond expectations to provide a safe learning experience. To do this, Coastline has:

Instructors you can trust - We're one of the only driving schools to do independent background and drug screens on every employee.

Marked cars with a second brake - Every Coastline car has a second instructor brake, is clearly marked as a driving school vehicle and is inspected by a BAR-certified mechanic.

Dashcam in every car - We record video and audio inside and outside the car for everyone's safety.

To take things a step further, Coastline wants to make sure you have a great experience or we will make it right. If for any reason you are unsatisfied with your driving lesson, we will make it right. We can redo your lesson either with the same instructor or a different one, at your option. Or, if you prefer, you can get a full refund.

This guarantee and commitment to safety has helped Coastline Academy be named as the sixth-fastest growing education company in America by Inc. 5000. Book your lesson today!

Want to feel safe and protected during your driving lessons? Then sign up with Coastline Academy, as safety lives here!

Safety lives here at Coastline Academy, as our driving instructors are focused on providing our students with a safe learning experience.

Coastline Academy Is Focused On Providing A Safe Learning Experience For Students

The journey to get your driver's license can be intense, as there are so many steps and requirements to complete before getting that driver's license in your hands. The final step before obtaining your drivers license is taking and passing the behind-the-wheel drive test at the DMV office. As nerve-wracking as this can be, Coastline Academy is proud to say that our students are almost twice as likely to pass the driving test on their first attempt than the average test taker in California.

After the road test has been completed, we send out surveys to our students to follow up and see how things went and if they passed. With the help of the Coastline Academy team, over 80% of our students have passed the road test on the first attempt based on these survey results! Add in the students that successfully passed on their second attempt and Coastline is proud to say that over 90% of our students have passed the behind-the-wheel road test and received their driver's license in two attempts or less!

To compare those numbers to data out there, Jerry stated "around 50% of people fail their driving test the first time." YoGov also compiled data from thousands of road tests in California and the average worked out to be about 50-60% pass rate. They found the highest rate to be 80% in Chula Vista and the lowest rate was 30% in Santa Monica.

At Coastline Academy, not only do we provide behind-the-wheel driving lessons with professional driving instructors, but we also provide lessons to brush up on your driving skills before your drive test for current students. For this lesson, one of our professional driving instructors would pick you up from home, work or school. From there, you would drive to get comfortable and relaxed behind the wheel.

You are going to get a one-hour lesson, which focuses on preparing you for the test, including a mock test so you know what to expect. After that is done, you will head over to the DMV office, get checked in and take your test in the Coastline car (insurance included). To find out more information and pricing, click here.

At Coastline Academy, we pride ourselves in teaching you the skills you need to be a great driver, and also prepare you for your road test, so you can test with confidence. We are working to make you a safer, more confident driver for life and it shows with this pass rate success!

Students at Coastline Academy have passed the behind-the-wheel drive test over 80% of the time on their first attempt, which is stellar compared to an average of 50-60% for all drivers.

Nervous about taking your driving test at the DMV office? Let us help, as our students have over an 80% success rate of passing on the first attempt!

Coastline Academy Students Almost Twice As Likely To Pass Driving Test On First Attempt

While getting behind the wheel is an exciting time for teenagers, it can also be a nerve-wracking time. All the stress of finding a good driving school and then being worried about taking a driving lesson with a professional driving instructor, who happens to be a complete stranger to you. That is why you want to make sure you are working with a high-quality instructor and we completely understand.

Driving instructors are responsible for training students to safely operate a motor vehicle. That is a huge responsibility, which is why Coastline Academy puts their driving instructors through a rigorous training program before they get inside the vehicle with students.

Depending on what state you are in and the requirements for Drivers Ed, you have options to use when getting your driver's license. While you can get training from a relative or friend, many people prefer the option of learning from a driving school and professional driving instructors, like Coastline Academy.

When it comes to driving instructors, they are professionals who teach people how to operate motor vehicles. Depending on the state you live, many first-time drivers have to meet a certain number of hours behind the wheel with a professional driving instructor. In California, that time is six hours. During that time, these driving instructors will be teaching a variety of techniques to make you a better driver.

Coastline Academy Driving Instructor Training Program

Coastline Academy is on a mission to eradicate car crashes. We do this by helping people become safe, confident drivers for life. To do that, we need to put the best of the best driving instructors out there. Every instructor is certified and licensed and has completed an intensive training course. The steps to becoming an instructor at Coastline Academy include:

Motor Vehicle Record reports on every Instructor

A minimum of 60 hours of training, even in states that have zero requirements

Only those instructors who are Certified Trainers are shadowing new candidates

Ongoing follow-up and training from managers and training department post-graduation

“We live by our core values of people first, transparency and efficiency. We believe the key to safety is finding and hiring the best instructors and holding them to the highest standard of instructor training,” said Nigel Tunnacliffe, Co-Founder and CEO at Coastline Academy. “We are the only driving school in most states to perform independent background and drug screens on all employees who interact with students, as well as recording audio and video of each lesson to ensure everyone’s safety.”

Our driving lessons aren't for everyone, they're for you. Our instructors customize every lesson to your precise needs, which is why 98% of students across the country rate their driving lesson with Coastline Academy as 5-stars!

The driving instructors at Coastline Academy are some of the safest on the road, as they go through a certified training course before taking on their first lesson.

Feel safe and confident when getting in a Coastline Academy vehicle, as our driving instructors go through a rigorous training program before taking on their first lesson.

Coastline Academy Offers Professionally-Trained, State-Certified Driving Instructors For Each Driving Lesson

We're on a mission to eradicate car crashes. We do this by helping people become safe, confident drivers for life.

We believe people learning to drive deserve the best education experience in the world. Whether it's your first time behind the wheel or you need a brush up before your test, we offer a driving experience that will make you a safer and more confident driver for the rest of your life.

We do this by focusing on the areas most important to our customers:

Professionally trained, state-certified driving instructors

Clean, late-model cars equipped with the latest safety equipment

Online scheduling and booking to provide world-class convenience

Friendly and extremely knowledgeable phone, email and chat support specialists to help you every step of the way

Focusing on what's important to you has allowed us to become the fastest-growing and largest behind-the-wheel driving school in the United States.

We have lived by these three core values since the day we opened our doors:

People First - Our drive is to provide a better experience for more students, everywhere

Transparency - Coastline is built on feedback - we give, receive, and request feedback often

Efficiency - We build software to allow our team and our customers to do more in less time

As a company, we talk about these values every day, and measure success by how well we uphold them.

You can't start a company to rid the world of car crashes without obsessing over safety. We believe the key to safety is finding and hiring the best instructors, and delivering to them the highest standard of instructor training. Our instructors are calm, caring and patient. We attract the best talent by paying above industry norms and by providing them professional support through continuing education and a collaborative work environment with managers and peers. 

We're the only driving school in most states to perform independent background and drug screens on all employees who interact with students. We also record audio and video of each lesson to ensure everyone’s safety.

We also use only clean, late-model, environmentally-friendly vehicles, and equip them with a dual brake so our instructors are ready to keep our students safe at all times.

Technology enables us to provide an exceptional student and instructor experience. Our instructors are able to manage their own schedules on the same platform (right here!) that you use to book your lesson, and everything happens in real time, so the moment you book and pay, you're ready to go - no extra phone calls, unless you want them.

At the end of each lesson, your instructor fills out a lesson skills report and emails you a copy so you know exactly what to work on between lessons. 

Our online courses are all mobile-optimized, and you can seamlessly switch between phone, tablet or computer. Learn where you want, when you want. When you're done your online course, order your certificate online or, if your state allows it, download your certificate right away to take the next step in your driving journey.

We're so sure you'll love your experience with Coastline that we back it up with our Coastline Guarantee. If for any reason we don't live up to our promise we'll redo or refund your lesson.

From all of us at Coastline, thank you for entrusting us with helping you learn this important and life-changing skill. If at any time you want to provide us some feedback, we would be delighted to hear it, whether it's positive or constructive. Reach out at hello@coastlineacademy.com.

About Coastline Academy, the Modern Driving School

If you are starting or making your way through the driver's license process, then you might find yourself asking many questions. If so, Coastline Academy is here to help you out. We have created this Resources Page to share articles and information we have available to help answer those questions.

Is Coastline Academy Certified By The DMV?

Every driving school must be certified by the state's DMV.

Find out the contact information for your state's Department of Motor Vehicles office using the link above.

How Do I Choose A Good Driving Schools? 5 Tips To Help You Out!

When learning to drive, having a good driving school is key to your success and we give you five tips to help you choose a good one!

Find out if your state requires driver's education using the link above!

When completing drivers education you receive a certificate, but can that driver's ed certificate expire? Find out with link above.

In order to take drivers ed, do you need your permit? Find out here!

We look into driver's training and if students are able to take it online in order to get their driver license.

With a fleet of late-model, safety-focused, environmentally conscience cars, we use our own cars to teach driving lessons.

Can I Accompany My Son Or Daughter On Their Lesson?

Find out if parents are allowed to ride along during driving lessons at Coastline Academy.

Are Coastline Vehicles Equipped With Dual Controls?

Find out if Coastline vehicles are equipped with dual controls for the instructor and student.

Day 1 Driving Lesson Tips To Help You During Your First Time Behind The Wheel

For those gearing up for their first driving lesson, our instructors came through with some Day 1 tips to help calm your nerves.

What Do They Teach You On A Driving Lesson?

If you are wondering what to expect during your driving lessons, we break it down for you here!

A checklist of items the student needs to bring to each lesson.

Feedback: How Many Driving Lessons Should I Take A Week?

We know you want to get your drivers license as soon as possible, but how many driving lessons should you take a week to gain the most from this experience? Our take on things with the link above!

Need to get in touch with your driving instructor? Find out how to do so here!

Scheduling Your Driving Lessons: Easy and Convenient

How do you schedule your driving lessons with Coastline Academy? We have made it easy and convenient for you to do! Find out the steps you need to take to schedule your driving lessons with Coastline Academy.

Can A Driving School Give You Your Driver's License?

Will you get your driver's license when attending a driving school? We let you know here!

Can You Rent A Car From Driving School To Get Your License?

If you need a vehicle to take the road test at your DMV office, find out if you can rent a car from driving school to get your license here.

Teen Drivers: Remember The Number 3 To Drive Safely

To help teen drivers with driver safety and remember traffic laws, one of our instructors says to always remember the number 3!

If You Lost Your Completion Certificate, Here Is How To Get A Replacement

If you happen to lose one of your certificates of completion, then check out how we can help you replace it.

Tips To Help Your Pass Driving Test On Your First Time

If you are taking your driving test soon, read our tips to help you pass it on your first attempt! Head into that behind-the-wheel drive test with confidence.

We Clarify 15 Terms That May Be Confusing To You During Your Driver's License Experience

Are there any words or phrases that make no sense to you in the driver's license experience? We clarify some of those confusing terms for you here!

If you are going through the drivers license process, then this resources page can help get you through it with ease.

To help you navigate the driver's license journey, we have created this resources page to use as your guide!

When it comes to getting your driver's license, no two states are alike. Each state has its own rules and regulations that you must follow in order to get your permit and your driver's license. Many states require you to take part in some form of driver's training program, which includes behind-the-wheel driving lessons and/or Driver's Ed. If you are required to take behind-the-wheel lessons (and even if you're not), how do you know where the nearest driving school may be? Check out our helpful tips below!

Coastline Academy began in California and we offer driving lessons throughout the state. We have also expanded our operations to Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Texas, with more states on the way! With this in mind, it's quite easy to see if we have driving instructors in your area - if we do, you can book your lesson online!

How to check for instructor availability in your area:

Check out our Driving Lessons page by clicking here.

Click on "Driving Lessons" and enter your zip code.

From here you can choose a package or scroll down to meet the instructors in your area! From there you can choose the date and time of your first lesson - you're all set!

If we aren't in your area right now, we are expanding and growing and will hopefully be in your area soon!

If you are in need of the Driver's Education portion of driving school, we offer online courses and some classroom courses (depending on location). Check out what's available in your state by  clicking here. Each course is approved by the licensing agency of the state it is given in.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our friendly support team. If you want to start your driver's training journey with Coastline Academy, make sure to sign up for Driver's Ed and book your driving lesson today!

Looking for behind-the-wheel driving lessons, but not sure where the nearest driving school is? Find out here!

Updated October 14, 2022: New mask policy has been put in place, so click here to read.

This article was updated on June 15, 2021, in conjunction with California's "re-opening".

We believe we have a global responsibility to help prevent the transmission of the COVID-19 virus.

Our instructors have been fully trained in best practices, cleaning protocols and teaching safely while using the PPE that has been provided to them

We are following federal, state and county recommendations, and you can be sure that our students’ health and safety is our highest priority.  

We will provide the personal protective equipment (or PPE) necessary to keep them safe and healthy when they return to work - including face masks, hand sanitizer and the cleaning supplies needed between lessons.

We will support their decision to teach in every way possible, and we support their right to choose to not teach a lesson, if they believe a student is unwell.

We have eliminated cancellation fees, to remove any barrier between a student who is feeling unwell, and their decision to cancel a lesson.

We have updated our cleaning protocols and extended time in between lessons to allow two cleanings: one after a student has exited the vehicle, and a second cleaning before the next student has entered.

If students forget their mask on the day of training, we are providing disposable masks in cars, to provide to the student. This is with the understanding that if the student wears glasses, they should be absolutely sure they can drive safely, while wearing the disposable mask. Students will be asked to take the mask away with them at the end of the  lesson.

We support and encourage our instructors to get vaccinated, and have been happy to able to help ensure that instructors are getting vaccinated as promptly as possible. We don't comment on the vaccination status of individual instructors. However the procedures we have in place (masks and cleaning protocols) are designed to ensure the safest possible learning environment for both instructors and students.

We want to thank you for helping us keep each other safe in these unprecedented times. And as always, if you have any questions, please reach out to our friendly support staff.

Updated June 15, 2021: This article is now out of date. We are no longer requiring students to self-certify to the below before lessons. Other safety protocols are still in place to ensure the safest possible environment for our students and instructors.

To ensure the safety of all of our students, instructors and members of our communities, and based on recommendations from the CDC, WHO and local authorities, we have put in place a set of guidelines for all students and instructors participating in driving lessons.

Students are required to confirm the following, before every lesson:

That they have not shown symptoms of being sick in the last 14 days. Similarly, that no-one in their household has shown symptoms during that same period.

That they have practiced wearing their mask - ideally while driving - in the days leading up to their lesson. This is to ensure that it isn’t an unfamiliar distraction while they’re driving and that it does not limit their field of vision. This is particularly important if the student wears glasses, as they will need to practice wearing a mask so that it doesn’t fog up their glasses.

That they have a thermometer in their home and are willing to take their own temperature the night before and morning of their lesson, to confirm they don’t have an elevated temperature. The CDC considers an elevated temperature to be 100.4° F or higher but we recognize that can vary from student to student.

That they aren’t wearing the same clothes to their lesson that they might have recently worn to a grocery store, pharmacy or on any errand that involved them entering a building other than their own home.

That they will wash their hands, last thing before leaving their home and entering the vehicle.

All students and instructors are required to wear a mask before entering the vehicle and for the duration of the lesson.

Instructors will also confirm a set of guidelines before each lesson. You can view those guidelines here.

We require students to confirm the following before each lesson.

Updated June 15, 2021: This article is now out of date. We are no longer requiring our instructors to self-certify before lessons. Other safety protocols are still in place to ensure the safest possible environment for our students and instructors.

Instructors are required to confirm the following, before they go out to teach each day

Before returning to work, instructors should confirm that they have successfully been following the stay at home order for 14 consecutive days, ahead of their first day teaching.

We ask instructors to confirm that they have practiced and are comfortable wearing a mask while teaching.

Instructors are required to take their own temperature each morning they are teaching lessons, to confirm that they don’t have an elevated temperature, and will reschedule all lessons if they register a temperature above the CDC's recommended threshold.

Lastly, instructors must confirm they won’t wear the same clothes that they might have recently worn on another day of teaching, or while visiting the grocery store, pharmacy or on any errand that involved entering a building other than their own home.

All students and instructors are required to wear a mask for the duration of the lesson.

You can also view the guidelines for students here.

We require instructors to confirm the following before each lesson.

Last updated May 12, 2021: We are open in all counties.

Driver Training is an essential service, and along with the DMVs re-opening, Coastline Academy has re-opened for driving lessons. The Department of Homeland Security and Governor Newsom’s Executive Order lists driver licensing systems as part of essential critical infrastructure, and the Department of Homeland Security goes on to list driver training along with DMV workers as part of the essential work force during the COVID-19 response.

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