Here is the itemized breakdown of costs to open a Driving Academy franchise,
as reported in the 2025 FDD Item 7 (Estimated Initial Investment).
Initial Franchise Fee
Lump sum; the Initial Franchise Fee is $50,000, which includes a defined territory, a self-study program, comprehensive training, a startup kit and a web page. This franchise fee is non-refundable. · At signing of the Franchise Agreement.
$50,000
Real Estate
As incurred; estimated expenses for your business location and is based on leasing a space with 1,500 to 2,500 square feet which includes leasing an empty lot space for your driving course . This estimate includes first month's rent plus a security deposit. · Before Opening.
$14,950 – $27,700
Leasehold Improvements
As incurred; the costs to construct interior alterations, improvements and decorating the facility all of which will depend on the extent of the renovations needed and any allowance you negotiate with your landlord for construction. · Before Opening.
$1,500 – $21,500
Equipment, Furniture and Fixtures
As incurred; estimated expenses for all equipment, furniture, and fixtures necessary for the operation of your Business. · Before Opening.
$65,000 – $189,000
Vehicles
As incurred; you must have a minimum of one single axel manual tractor, one single axel automatic tractor, one passenger bus and trailers that meet our appearance standards for the operation of your Business. · Before Opening
$27,500 – $135,000
Technology
As incurred for a computer or laptop, tablets, software, printer, copier, router, modem, monitors, flat screen televisions, camera surveillance system and phone system. · Before Opening.
$9,700 – $15,000
Vehicle Graphics
Lump sum; estimated costs for placing approved graphics on your Vehicles. We specify and provide you with vehicle graphic guidelines in the Operations Manual. · Before Opening
$4,500 – $10,800
Start Up Inventory
Lump sum: estimates for a startup inventory of approved products and supplies necessary for your first month of operation. · Before Opening.
$4,000 – $7,500
Signage
Lump sum; estimated cost for the delivery and installation of exterior signage and window graphics. We specify and provide you with the guidelines in the Operations Manual. Signage expenses are not refundable. · Before Opening.
$3,500 – $6,000
Travel, Lodging and Meals for Initial Training Program
As incurred; training held at corporate headquarters. You are responsible for all costs associated with attending such as travel, room, and board for each person. Estimates provided are costs for one person. Additional training is available at your request for which an additional training fee of up to $250 per person per day may be required. · As Incurred.
$1,950 – $4,000
Additional Funds (3 months)
As incurred; additional funds necessary for start-up of your Business which includes working capital. · Spent over the course of first 3 months.
$25,000 – $50,000
Staffing
As incurred; you will need to hire part-time admission representatives, administrative help and some franchisees may need to hire a certified instructor. The low-end estimate takes into account you hire part-time admission representatives, you perform all administrative duties and you are the instructor and manager. The high-end estimate takes into account that you hire part-time admission representatives, you hire a certified instructor, you perform administrative tasks and you are the manager. · Over the period before opening that you hire these employees or contractors.
$12,000 – $30,800
Grand Opening Marketing
As incurred; marketing will vary depending on several factors including your business plan, growth rate and cost of media in your area. You must have a minimum amount of $3,000 before you open to spend on a grand opening marketing, which must be spent one month prior to opening. · Before Opening
$3,000 – $5,000
Business Licenses, Permits, Certifications and other Professional Fees
As incurred; licenses, permits and certifications required to operate your Business and any professional legal and accounting fees incurred. · Before Opening.
$550 – $2,500
Insurance
Lump sum: before commencing operation of the Business and as required by the insurance company. · Spent over the course of 12 months Must pay for at least one month before opening
$850 – $2,000
Utilities
As incurred; costs will vary due to policies of local utilities and this estimate includes a utility deposit. · Before Opening.
$200 – $500
Total Estimated Investment
$224,200 – $557,300
