The face behind Ignition Driving School. Mick is a fully qualified RSA-registered instructor, bringing fresh energy, patience, and local knowledge to every single lesson — helping learners across Laois build confidence and pass their test.
Mick Kelly
RSA-Certified Instructor • ADI No. 44037 • Laois
Mick Kelly founded Ignition Driving School with one simple belief: learning to drive should be a positive experience, not a nerve-wracking one. As a fully qualified RSA-registered instructor, Mick brings professionalism, patience, and a genuine passion for teaching to every single lesson — helping learners across County Laois go from complete beginners to test-ready drivers.
He's not just an instructor; he's a coach who genuinely cares about every student's success. Patient, calm, and endlessly encouraging, Mick knows that no two learners are the same. He adapts every lesson to your pace, your confidence level, and your goals.
Modern Dual-Control Car
Local Test Route Expert
Fully Insured
No. 44037
It's not just about passing the test — it's about becoming a safe, confident driver for life.
Mick is a fully RSA-registered and approved driving instructor (ADI No. 44037). He undergoes regular assessments to ensure his teaching meets the highest national standards — so you know you're learning from a genuine pro.
Nervous? Never driven before? Had a bad experience elsewhere? Mick specialises in anxious and first-time drivers. He never rushes, never shouts, and never makes you feel silly for making a mistake. Every student learns at their own pace.
Based in Laois, Mick knows the RSA test routes for Portlaoise and the surrounding areas inside out. Your pre-test lessons will cover the exact roads, junctions, and tricky spots the examiners use — so nothing surprises you on test day.
Life is busy. Mick works around your schedule — evenings, weekends, after school or college. And when he says he'll be there, he's there. Punctuality and reliability are non-negotiable.
Lessons are conducted in a fully insured, dual-control vehicle — meaning Mick has his own brake and clutch. You can learn with total confidence knowing there's always a safety net.
No two learners are the same. Mick adapts every lesson to your pace, confidence, and goals — preparing you properly, not just to pass a test, but to drive safely for the rest of your life.
At Ignition Driving School, our mission is simple: create safe, confident drivers who are genuinely prepared for the road — not just for the test.
Too many driving schools focus on ticking boxes. Mick focuses on you. Every lesson is tailored to your experience level, your confidence, and your learning style. Whether you need 12 lessons or just a pre-test refresher, you'll get exactly what you need — nothing less, nothing more.
We believe driving is a life skill, not a box-ticking exercise. That's why we teach defensive driving habits from day one — the kind that keep you safe long after the L-plates come off.
"Mick is an absolute gentleman. I was a bag of nerves before my first lesson and he put me right at ease. I'm actually enjoying learning to drive now!"
– Sarah, Portlaoise
"Couldn't recommend Mick enough. He knows the roads around Laois like the back of his hand, and every lesson I come away feeling more confident behind the wheel."
– Conor, Portarlington
"Only a few lessons in and I'm already so much more confident. Mick is so patient and calm — never once made me feel stupid for stalling. Actually look forward to my lessons now!"
– Aoife, Mountmellick
Mick covers all of County Laois and comes to you — home, work, or school.
Portlaoise
Portarlington
Mountmellick
Abbeyleix
Stradbally
Rathdowney
Durrow
Emo
Ballylinan
The Heath
Mountrath
& All Laois
Your first lesson is just a call or message away. No commitment, no pressure — just a friendly chat about how Mick can help you get on the road.
Or call direct: +353 83 177 4216
