Unprofessional communication, shortened lesson times, and scheduling issues
I registered for the Klasse B driver’s license course at Asma Fahrschule (Pankow branch). The registration process was initially prompt, but my experience once lessons began was extremely disappointing.
Class Registration Errors: I specifically registered for Klasse B (manual transmission). Despite this, my first two practical lessons were scheduled in an automatic vehicle. I was still required to pay for these sessions because they fell within the non-cancellation window.
Shortened Driving Time: Practical lessons are booked as 80-minute slots. In my experience, instructors frequently arrived 5–10 minutes late and finished 5–10 minutes early. Additionally, multiple sessions involved taking 5–10 minutes out of my paid time to refuel or wash the car.
Scheduling Difficulties: Slot availability felt ad-hoc. If I didn't respond to booking offers almost instantly, the open slots were given away, delaying my overall progress by weeks.
Lack of Progress Transparency: The instructor verbally informed me I needed only 2 to 3 more lessons to be ready for the practical exam. However, administration refused to register me for the exam, citing conflicting feedback from the instructor.
Payment & Invoice Policies: The school operates on a cash-only basis, and receiving formal payment receipts required constant follow-ups. I experienced varying session costs for the same 80-minute lesson duration without clear explanation. Furthermore, I received aggressive payment reminders while actively mid-lesson in the morning before the front desk even opened.
Unprofessional Customer Service: When I missed a lesson due to sudden, severe back pain and provided a valid medical certificate, I received a phone call from the receptionist who spoke to me in an aggressive, hostile manner, accused me of faking my illness, and refused to let me speak. During this call, conflicting statements were made regarding whether I owed money for the missed class, before they eventually dropped the charge when I stated I was ending my contract.
Bottom line: Due to shortened driving times, lack of payment receipt tracking, and poor administrative support, I would advise prospective students to carefully consider other driving schools in Berlin.