Reviews
Here’s what people are saying about Happy Time Defensive Driving:
Nicole M., Austin, TX
"Took this class and highly recommend it. Mark is funny and he is also interactive so it makes the class go quicker. Lunch is included which is great. i will go back if I need to take def driving class again." Link »
Tina P., Houston, TX
"I arrived at the school which is really located inside Connoli Joes, with my roommate. Everybody there was old but I later came to realize they were really cool "old" people. Mark, the instructor, started the class smoothly. He broke the ice by telling us a funny but informative story and everybody was laughing right away. There are 5 minute breaks for every hour of Mark talking, extremely fast but never did I feel like he was going too fast. HE IS NOT MONOTONED AT ALL THANKGOODNESS! His style of teaching is very realistic. He asked each one of us to explain to the class why we were taking defensive driving. Then, he used our stories to teach us right from wrong. Most people in there got ticketed for speeding. I am really glad he didn't just read from a book about the rules and regulations but he interacted with us and taught us using real life situations that people actually get ticketed for. He also busted myths about speeding and other misconceptions that people have developed over time. This review is going to be short, I think the 5 stars for this place speaks for itself. The 6 hours went by really fast. I recommend this place to everyone. Don't do it online because it's cheaper or whatever, just sit it out, the "test" is so easy and he reads you the answers before hand. Trust me, I have taken it online before and it was WAY harder than Mark's class!!!! The unlimited sodas kept me happy and I was extremely pleased with the fresh pizza and Caesar salad for lunch!!" Link »
Barbara C., Travis, TX
"Haven't had a ticket since 1982 and put this class off until the last minute, out of dread. What a surpirse! Mark was energetic, funny, upbeat and the time passed so quickly. We were treated to lunch at our location- County Line on the Water. Yummy chopped beef sandwich, tea & chips! Spent some time on deck watching turtles swim and then back to work. Nice mix of older and younger participants (I'm in the older group) but hey, we did a lot of bonding. Nice to cross age groups now and then. Definitely would recommend this one!" Link »
Sheiran P., Austin, TX
"I sometimes wonder if online reviews are actually written by customers, but this one's for real.. I attended the class at The County Line on 2222. Mark is a very genuine guy, entertaining, intelligent, informative and extremely courteous. The class went by quickly. I have attended only 2 or 3 defensive driving classes over the years. This is the first one I actually enjoyed and had a good meal as well." Link »
Katherine S., Austin, TX
"If you're going to get a traffic ticket, you might as well get it dismissed by attending one of the classes with Happy Time Defensive Driving. I've taken a defensive driving course before and it was tedious and painfully cheesy. Luckily, this one wasn't. 6 hours is a long time regardless, but Marco gets you through it. He was a stellar and genuinely helpful instructor. I'm not planning on needing defensive driving any time soon, but I'll use Happy Time again if I do." Link »
Andrew C., Austin, TX
"Mark was very good instructor for the Defensive Safety course that I attended on 7/18 at Cannoli Joe's in South Austin. He covered the material required and did it with a sense of style and humor - it really helped that he has lived here for a number of years and knew the streets very well. This came in handy as he could empathize and use the examples from the students to help illustrate common understandings vs. the law (He had a white board and frequently drew the intersection details for those of us that are more visual learners). The only drawback was that the videos he had were quite old and somewhat boring - maybe he will find some newer material could be found on Youtube ;-)" Link »
Debbie D., Hays, TX
"Happy Time Defensive Driving was awesome!!! The instructor was both informative and hilarious! We also received yummy barbeque.....I would recommend this class to everyone in Austin, even if you don't have a violation! We had a great class! Great videos and discussion" Link »
chris m., Austin, TX
"i was dreading taking def driving and put it off till the last minute but i actually had a lot of fun in marks class and learned some things i didnt know.. the food from connoli joes was excellent as well... very professional yet done in a light hearted manner... i rarely have had such a good experience with any type of business or service..." Link »
Gene B., Travis, TX
"I recommend this course to everyone. Mark is very interesting to listen to an very funny." Link »
Carole
"This was the best ever defensive driving class I've ever taken! Marc makes it FUN and the time flies!" Link »
Robert
"Time just flew by. Our class was at Cannoli Joe's, which if you haven't been, is amazing! Everybody told me to do it online. Glad I didn't. This is my first review ever on google. Shows how much I enjoyed the class." Link »
Erika M., Austin, TX
"I took Mark's class at the County Line on 2222. It's as good as a defensive driving class can get! He kept my attention, I met some great people, and ate yummy choped beef. After 9 years of being away and returning to Austin, I feel like I know how to drive here again, new highways and all." Link »
Dominic M., Austin, TX
"it never fails, i get a speeding ticket annually for the past 12 years of my life. i don't have boobs (well i have man boobs, but that doesnt get me anywhere), and i don't know how to cry my way out of a ticket, but i do take defensive driving, and they always come off my record. now i have tried everything. i took the online course, i took the blockbuster home video back when they gave you a machine to plug into your phone outlet when it was time to take the test, and i even took a course once with a guy dressed in a clown outfit. that being said, out of the 12 or so times i have taken defensive driving, happy time was the best one i have taken. took it sat morning at cannoli joes. the class was i think 30 bux (i paid 45 for blockbuster once), and the best thing about the price is that you get all you can eat pizza and drink in the price. cannoli on a sat is now like 14 bux plus 2 bux for a drink, comes out to about 17 after tax. so that is the best part about this class. the instructor mark was awesome. he is funny and was recommended to me by one of my friends who took his tabc class. i actually learned a few things instead of falling asleep like i have done in other classes. i assume i will get a ticket again as long as there is traffic patrol around william cannon and brodie. never fails. oh well. if and when i do, i will go back to happy times." Link »
Errol M., Austin, Texas
"I take a defensive driving class every three years just for the insurance discount. For this go-around, I went to a Happy Time class simply because of the five-star reviews here on Yelp. They are correct. Yelping can be useful. I did the County Line location because it sounded tastier. Mark the instructor is animated and personable and does make the day go quicker. If you're one of the eleven smokers left in Austin, the five-minute breaks every hour are convenient. For me, the only uncomfortable part of this class was sitting through the state-mandated video segments, which just go on and on. The fun part was peppering Mark with hypothetical scenarios--"If five cars are speeding together in the fast lane, which one will be picked off by DPS?" All things considered, another great example of Yelper's recommendations supporting a local small business that deserves it." Link »
Jen C., Austin, Texas
"I've taken defensive driving a couple times before (online-- zzzz + cap city, where the comedian was out sick), and until yesterday, I had thought they were all as dull and brain-gouging as the rest. Untrue! I took Mark B's class at Cannoli Joe's and it completely changed my mind. I would never have taken the others had I known there was a choice like this. The class passes quickly, as the course is taught mainly like a discussion group than a lecture. Mark does a great job of drawing everyone into the conversation and keeping the class alive with his quick wit. The videos are necessary, yes, but he breaks the class up so you don't fall asleep during them. The endless supply of coffee helped too, I'm not gonna lie :) So if you've got to take defensive driving for insurance or to do dute for your road faux pas (...es?), go to Mark B's class. It's as painless as it gets and hey, you might even learn something!" Link »
Chunlin Wang, Austin, Texas
"It has been quite a few years since I attended a defensive driving class. Marco made it fun and educational. I was impressed with Marco's enthusiasm and knowledge. I have to admit that I learnt something useful, from good driving habits to some new traffic laws. I chose this traditional class over online class thinking that it would be more fun to do it this way. Marco certainly has made me felt that I had made a right decision. I would recommend Marco's class to my friends when they need one. Thanks, Marco" Link »
Michael K., Austin, Texas
"f you've ever have a need to take defensive driving, do yourself a favor and take this class. The instructor is awesome. He has a great perspective and a wonderful attitude towards life. It was well worth the time spent. It was like old friends chatting in a comfortable environment rather than a formal class ran by an authoritarian lunatic (yes...I've had them too!). The best thing is how Marc just took away all those feelings of frustration. Let's face it. It sucks getting a ticket, but what's worse is sitting through a class with someone lecturing you for six hours. Marc goes far beyond the call of duty and hell, I'm almost looking forward to my next ticket! : ) ! " Link »
Clayton C., Austin, Texas
"WOW! WOW! WOW! Lets just say I have had a few moving violations..I have taken defensive driving classes on and off for the last 15 years. I've had the professional comedians and the on-line classes but I have never been to a class where I had so much FUN!!!!!!! Best DD class I have ever been to." Link »
Aaron B., Austin, Texas
"I have used Marc for years and his classes have always been so entertaining and informative. A great guy with a wonderful teaching sense. I appreciate everything. Thanks again Marc." Link »
Aaron B., Austin, Texas
"Marc's class was informative and hilarious. Taking a driving class and making it something I truly enjoyed. Anytime you can take humor and provide education it makes for a great time. Thank you again Marc and I appreciate everything." Link »
Janice H., Austin, Texas
"I was truly dreading a day of DD. Marc took that dread and turned it into a very enjoyable, entertaining and informative day. The day flew by and Marc was awesome. I highly recommend this guy. Lunch was great, too. -janice hurst" Link »
Tammy S., Austin, Texas
"You know i've been through a lot of defensive driving coarses from old boring guys, hungover comedians, internet coarses, and finally Happy Time. I have to admidt the class itself is boring but the instructor of Happy Time was atleast funny and used real life senarios. I would absolutly suggest Happy Time." Link »
Valerie B., Sunset Valley, Texas
"So I took Happy Time Defensive driving class today (Sat 9am-3pm) at Cannoli Joe's on 290. First, it did not seem like 6 hours-the time just flew by!!! Mark the instructor is very witty, interesting and really made the class completely painless. Honestly, he got all of the needed information out by telling very funny stories. He's very animated and interactive-without being cheesy. I have taken MANY other defensive driving classes and this was (HANDS DOWN) the best defensive driving class I've EVER taken! Not to mention- the pizza and salad were fresh and DELICIOUS!! Cannoli's manager will make sure there is always plenty of drinks and enough food. And the test will be a breeze! Seriously, you will have a good time... I know that sounds ridiculous, but- it's true. And believe me-I did not want to be there, at all. So I HIGHLY recommend Happy Time!!! Sincerely, Valerie" Link »
Lara P., Cedar Park, Tx
"I attended one of the defensive driving classes at Canolli Joe's on January 9, 2010. I had the best experience!! Marc was very funny and kept the class on their toes! Marc is very personable and relatable. I was worried about having to do some silly exercises or activities, but nothing like that occured! I was able to sit back and relax... he said right away he knew who did not want to be messed with and who wouldn't mind. He was right on in my case! The videos (mandated by the state) are short. They are somewhat boring (I will not lie), but lunch was ready by the time they were over with! I HIGHLY recommend this class!!! WAY better than the videos and Internet d. driving!" Link »
James, Austin, Tx
"I have taken defensive driving before and although many schools claim to be funny and keep you entertained, few are. Mark as a great teaching style and keeps everyone entertained. This is the way to go!" Link »
Brian, Austin, Tx
"Who would have known getting a ticket would lead to this much fun... not that I'm looking forward to my next one or anything!!! :o) Mark is great, time flies bye and he keeps you smiling and laughing the whole time. I'd recommed to anyone needing a dd class. Thx Mark!" Link »
T. Olds, Austin, Tx
"Had a great time in the class, Mark was very funny and kept the class interesting and full of humor. Great location, great stories, and great food - would definately recommend this class!! Its better than work! :)" Link »
Joe R., Austin, Tx
"I attended this class to receive a discount on my insurance (No Ticket received!!). I didn't know what I was going to get from this class because a friend of mine, who did receive a ticket, had signed me up. I was thinking this was going to be a boring DD class like all the others I have attended in the past, but Mark changed all that,,,He kept the class engaged, was funny and answered all questions. This was the best DD class I ever attended. Mark is a very knowledgeable instructor and I would highly recommend him to anyone who needs to take a DD class.." Link »
Kalote22, Austin, Texas
"Unfortunately I have had to attended a good amount of defensive driving classes in my day. They ranged from the comedy clubs to the usual restaurant classes that offer a free meal. I found that I like the ones with the free meal the best. The comedians are good at what they do and offer the perk of the "free" comic show tickets, but I have found that I end up spending about 30 to 40 bucks at the show with the REQUIRED two items per person when I attend.(So its really not free) The restaurant classes also charge you an extra five or ten bucks to pay for your meal, but that beats 30 or 40 bucks any day in book.(Happy Times even offers a five dollar discount as you can see above under the google map) My point is that anywhere you go you will have to pay for the "perk" thats over the state required minimum of 25 bucks for the course, so what you have really got to focus on is the six excruciating hours you have to sit in the class. I think Happy Times Defensive Driving beats out all the other courses cause the instructor doesn 't make it feel like your there for six hours. Six hours is six hours, but it really didn't feel like it in this class. I am taking the time to write this review(which I never would have bothered with in my busy schedule), and will always go back to Happy Times because it was that good! The instructor is really down to earth and very helpful with all things pertaing not only to the course, but to dealing with your ticket and the in and outs of the process. Good Job Happy Times!" Link »
Jason C., Austin, Tx
"Ashamed to say but I've been to a few DD classes over the years. I had to write a review on Mark and his class I attended. It was PAINLESS. I expected some cheesy comedian with terrible jokes but what i got was an entertaining and witty class that actually was "enjoyable"! It helps that the mexican food was GREAT too! I hope I never have to take another DD class but if I do, it won't be the end of the world... I definitely recommend Happy Time Defensive Driving. Jason C" Link »
Brock B., Austin, Tx
"I am new to Texas and got a speeding ticket over the summer in my first month here. When I was told taking defensive driving could reduce the cost of my ticket and remove the infraction from my record, I couldn't believe it! Soon enough I got a bunch of postcards in the mail for various courses. I picked Happy Time Defensive Driving based on positive reviews on Yelp and on the fact that the owner was able to help me expedite the certificate of completion (I procrastinated). I was going 78 in a 65 on a sunny day on a highway. I will do that every time, I don't feel there is anything unsafe in that. I was thus afraid the course would be boring, not useful and/or preachy. In actuality it was quite unenjoyable and I learned a number of very good safety tips and obscure rules of the road that I really think will make me a better and safer driver. I highly recommend this course!" Link »
Emily B., Austin, Tx
"Mark's Happy Times Defensive Driving School is the most fun I ever thought that I could ever have in a defensive driving course. The learning is visual and you remember because of the comical and engaging improvisational teaching techniques. Mark is extremely patient with every one and constantly encourages questions and any comments. The time flies because it is almost like going to a show or something. Its a genuine entertainment environment, very positive, creative, comfortable, and exciting! Happy Times is Happy Times and a true learning experience!! I can't think of a more wonderful way to really remind yourself why we have to adhere to traffic laws and how we can keep from breaking them. I realized more so than ever the importance of responsible driving and walked out of there caring more than I did before the course which was a wake up call and opened up another awareness level. If you are facing a traffic ticket with the requirements of taking a defensive driving course, call Happy Times! You will NOT regret it! I promise!" Link »
L.L., Austin, Tx
"I've taken a few of these over the years. If you have to do it, this is about as painless as it gets. The instructor kept things moving and he's a good speaker. All u can eat pizza, salad & drinks. They were kind enough to provide coffee and drinks from the start. As I was dreading having to sit through class uncaffeinated, this was a great start. Turned out it went by pretty fast. Instructor was really great at explaining steps for taking care of your ticket, so if you've never had to do the process before, this would be very helpful for you. Pizza was excellent. Soft drinks a little flat, but overall an excellent experience. Instructor is also bilingual and this is a local business." Link »
Bryan B., Austin, Tx
"This is the way to do it!! I have done several defensive driving courses over the years, and this one is the best. Mark makes the time fly by. I honostly enjoyed the class! It was at the County Line on 2222. I have done an online course before, this was way more fun! Thanks again, Mark!!" Link »
Susan B., Austin, Tx
" Just a quick note to thank you for your teaching style. The warm, conversational, friendly atmosphere not only made the time fly by - but actually substantially increased learning. The discussion, and what we learned was much broader and deeper and more penetrating than the items tested. I find myself now thinking about circumstances that are actually dangerous, versus perhaps petty offenses that some of the class participants may have been ticketed for. I will recommend this course, and thank you for your intuitive and effective teaching style. - susanb" Link »
Saia P., Austin, Tx
"I really enjoyed this class...it was 1000% better than taking it online. The instructor is very amusing and we are able to take breaks every hour. Lunch at the County Line was really good too. If I ever have to take defensive driving again, I will definitely take it with Happy Time." Link »
David S., Austin, Tx
"Marc is awesome and the homemade pizza and salad at Cannoli Joe's make this well worth it. Joe's is locally owned by the way, EVEN BETTER!" Link »
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