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PLAINVILLE - A driving school abruptly closed its doors earlier this week, leaving as many as 80 students looking for driver training alternatives.

A spokeswoman for the Registry of Motor Vehicles said, however, that students will be able to use credit for classes they have already taken at other schools.

One Way Driving School closed as of Aug. 31, according to a recording on the school's Web site.

A parent who called The Sun Chronicle said the school was still operating as of Saturday. It was not clear why the school closed.

Registry spokeswoman Ann Dufresne said Registry inspectors have obtained the school's records and will review the status of all students. Students will be notified by letter within seven to 10 days of credits they have earned that will be honored by other schools. The Registry will also review whether a student is owed a refund.

Driving schools are required to post bonds to cover any claims, Dufresne said.

Tom Mooney, a parent, said his son recently completed his driver's course but is awaiting certification by the Registry proving that he has met all requirements.

He said other students at the school were at various stages in their training.

The state requires new drivers to complete 12 hours of on-road driving, six hours of observation and 30 hours of classwork before becoming eligible for a license.

Other area schools said they have received calls from students and families concerned about continuing driver education and whether they will receive credit for what they have already learned.

"We've been swamped with calls," said Goran Antunovic of Labonte's Auto School.

He said his school will offer credit to students once it is verified by the Registry.

Antunovic says he's saddened by the turn of events.

"It's a bad thing for the whole industry," he said.