Our Team

Staff and Instructors

DMV Assistant photo

Amber Rose Janson

Behind The Wheel Training

Hello, I’m AmberRose, and I want to welcome you to the world of driving. I believe learning to drive is an exciting and important skill, increasing one’s freedom as well as responsibility. I excel at teaching students at their own pace and each lesson is tailored to their individual needs. While passing the driving test is one important goal, my lessons also deliver fundamental instruction so that student drivers have the critical thinking skills they need when they encounter different scenarios on the road. I teach with a relaxed and calm demeanor, helping them become accustomed to different driving techniques. My passion is to help increase their knowledge and skills, safely and efficiently. By asking pertinent questions in real-time, I help each new driver understand the rules, choices, and best practices; making the beginning of the driving journey safe, enjoyable, and fun.

DMV Assistant photo

Lule Varela

Behind The Wheel Training

Lule has been a driving instructor for 10 years and is also currently working for the State of California at the Department of Toxic Substance Control. As a driving instructor, she understands the importance of guidance when a beginner student driver is nervous and is reluctant. At the end of a driving lesson when a student is smiling and confident about becoming a safe driver, it makes her day. Lule is also fluent in Spanish.

DMV Assistant photo

Donald Sayvong

Behind The Wheel Training

Donald was born in San Diego and raised in the Bay Area. He understands that people learn in many different ways and adapts his teaching methods for students to effectively execute driving maneuvers. He teaches in a comfortable environment where mistakes are welcome. It is essential to him that his students are well prepared for the DMV road test but most importantly develop the skills to become confident and safe drivers.

Owner BDS

Annette Gagnon

Administration/Owner & Operator

Annette is from Honolulu and has lived in the Bay Area for the past 27 years. She has managed and supervised various businesses and now has been the owner & operator of the Berkeley Driving School Since 2002. She is organized and is very knowledgeable of state requirements and procedures to obtain your California permit and/or license. You may call the office with any questions or if you need to make arrangements with any of our services. She will happily assist.

Owner BDS

Ally

Ally the pit-bull has no experience whatsoever in teaching or driving. She has applied for the position several times but she was not hired due to: inability to speak the English language, excessive chewing of toys, and falling asleep during interview. However, she wanted me to remind you all if you’d like to save an animal and have a great addition to your family – adopt from the SPCA or your local animal shelter. 

Owner BDS

Boogie

Boogie is also not a current driving instructor with our school. He was not hired due to his shady past including convictions for disorderly conduct and misdemeanor theft at PETCO. He did want to remind everyone that the Oakland Animal Shelter located at 1101 29th Ave is always seeking volunteers and affordable donations are always appreciated.

Registered Business Address

Please call or text for assistance.

4154  MacArthur Blvd. Oakland, CA 94619

Call Or Text Us

For Clients, Appointments, Questions.

+1 (510) 530-1938

Email Us

Organizations, Schools, Non-Profits ONLY
berkeleydrivingsch@sbcglobal.net