PASCO, Wash. — There’s a new driver in town, and they’re taking safety and skill to the next level. Top Notch Driving School, owned and operated by Steven Nundahl, has officially opened its second location in West Pasco — a major milestone for the growing Tri-Cities business that’s built a reputation for professionalism, patience, and results.
Take a tour of the new facility
“Pasco is booming,” said Nundahl. “We’re very excited to grow with the community and help meet the demand from local students and parents. There are only a couple of other driving schools in Pasco, so it was the perfect time to expand.”
From Layoff to Leadership
Nundahl’s road to entrepreneurship started in an unexpected place — unemployment. After being laid off from a previous job, his mother, who worked as an instructor at another school, encouraged him to give driver education a try.
“I kind of lucked into it,” he said with a laugh. “You have to put in 100 hours of unpaid training, pass the tests, and really learn how to teach. It’s intense, but I fell in love with it.”
He spent five years as an instructor before deciding to open his own school. Top Notch Driving School launched its first classes in Kennewick in July 2022, and now, just over two years later, Nundahl is celebrating the grand opening of the Pasco location this September.
Community-Focused and Family-Operated
Top Notch is more than a business — it’s a family venture. Nundahl’s wife and mother are both part of the team, helping students register, schedule lessons, and build confidence behind the wheel.
The new Pasco branch held a successful grand opening event and connected with hundreds of families at the Chiawana Holiday Bazaar, where Nundahl handed out discount cards and spread the word. “We just want people to know we’re here and ready to help,” he said.
Whether you search Top Notch Driving Kennewick, Top Notch Driving Pasco, or Top Notch Tri-Cities, you’ll find the same easy-to-navigate website that lets parents select their preferred location and contact information for both schools.
Coaching on the Field and Behind the Wheel
When he’s not teaching students to merge or parallel park, Nundahl is coaching the offensive and defensive lines at Southridge High School — the same school he once attended as a student-athlete.
“It’s really cool being back where I went to high school,” he said. “I get to coach the same colors I once wore.”
And in many ways, Nundahl says, coaching and driving instruction share the same playbook. “You have to read your student — figure out how they learn best, work with them one-on-one, and help them gain confidence. Whether it’s football or driving, you’re shaping someone’s future.”
Partnering With Jacobs Radio
Top Notch Driving School recently teamed up with Jacobs Radio Group, bringing their message to airwaves across the Tri-Cities on107.3 The Beat, our classic Hip Hop station.
“We’re proud to partner with local businesses like Top Notch that are investing in our community and creating opportunities for young people,” said Jacobs Radio representative Mike Gonzalez. “Steven’s story is exactly the kind of local success we love to share — built on family, faith, and a drive to make the Tri-Cities safer.”
Learn More
For information on upcoming classes, visit \ (or just Google “Top Notch Driving ri-Cities”).Top-Notch Driving School You can also follow Top Notch Driving School on social media for class updates, community events, and teen driving tips.
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