Rated 'Excellent' on Trustpilot
Driving Instructors in Gillingham
👉 Prefer an intensive driving course in Gillingham?
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Gillingham instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learning to drive in Gillingham is stress-free with Rated Driving’s automatic driving lessons.
Whether you’re a nervous beginner, a busy professional, or simply prefer an easier route to passing your test, our DVSA-approved instructors are here to help you get on the road confidently.
Book your Gillingham driving lessons today – call 0330 0439896
Spring Savings Are Here!
Spring Sale!
This spring, we're offering fantastic deals to help you hit the road:
- Save up to £110 on driving lessons when you book a 40-hour block.
- Earn £10 cashback for every paying friend you refer, directly to your bank or PayPal.
- Enjoy a 4.5% discount when you book 30 hours or more.
Take advantage of these seasonal savings and start your journey today!
Why Choosing the Right Driving Instructor Matters
Learning to drive isn’t just about passing a test. It’s about building confidence, awareness, and safe habits that last for life.
The best driving instructors in Gillingham don’t rush lessons or follow a rigid script. They:
- Adapt lessons to your confidence and learning style
- Explain clearly, without pressure or judgement
- Prepare you for real-world driving — not just the test
- Give honest feedback on progress and readiness
Rated Driving only works with instructors who meet strict quality and professionalism standards, so learners know they’re in safe hands from day one.
Female Driving Instructor in Gillingham
For some learners, comfort and confidence are closely linked. That’s why Rated Driving offers the option to request a female driving instructor in Gillingham, subject to availability.
This option is popular with:
- Nervous or first-time learners
- Learners returning to driving after a long gap
- Those who feel more at ease in a supportive learning environment
We respect learner preferences and do our best to accommodate them.
Driving Instructor Prices in Gillingham
We believe pricing should be clear, fair, and transparent.
Typical driving instructor prices in Gillingham depend on:
- Manual or automatic lessons
- Lesson duration and frequency
- Pay As You Go vs block bookings
Your instructor will explain pricing upfront, with no hidden charges and no pressure to book more lessons than you need.
Pay As You Go Driving Lessons
Our Pay As You Go option is ideal if you want flexibility or prefer not to commit upfront.
Pay As You Go lessons are perfect if you:
- Have a busy or unpredictable schedule
- Want to try lessons before booking a block
- Are returning to driving and need a refresher
You only pay for the lessons you take — simple and stress-free. Many learners in Gillingham start this way and later move to block bookings once they’re comfortable.
What You’ll Learn with Our Driving Instructors
Your lessons follow a structured syllabus designed around DVSA standards, while remaining flexible to your progress.
You’ll learn:
- Vehicle control and smooth, safe driving
- Observation, mirror routines, and anticipation
- Junctions, roundabouts, and lane discipline
- Parking manoeuvres and controlled stops
- Independent driving and sat-nav use
- Test-standard mock driving assessments
Progress is tracked clearly, so you always know how close you are to being test-ready.
How Many Driving Lessons Will I Need?
There’s no fixed number — every learner is different.
On average, learners in Gillingham need 25–35 hours of professional driving lessons, depending on:
- Previous driving experience
- Confidence levels
- Lesson frequency
- Whether learning manual or automatic
Your instructor will give honest guidance on readiness — not guesswork.
Why Learners Choose Rated Driving in Gillingham
Rated Driving focuses on quality, not volume.
What sets us apart:
- DVSA-approved driving instructors only
- Local instructor matching
- Manual and automatic options
- Female driving instructors available
- Pay As You Go flexibility
- Genuine learner reviews and feedback
Our goal isn’t just to help you pass — it’s to help you become a safe, confident driver for life.
Where to start?
Looking to learn to drive in Gillingham? Whether you prefer automatic or manual, there are plenty of flexible lesson options available. Simply type in your postcode and submit your enquiry to be matched with a expert local DVSA-registered driving instructor in your area.
🤔 How many driving lessons will I need?
The DVSA says most people need about 40 hours of professional lessons, plus private practice. We'll help tailor your schedule to build confidence efficiently.
- The DVSA recommends about 45 hours of professional lessons and 22 hours of private practice for most learners.
- Some learners feel confident sooner, others need more time.
- Your instructor will monitor your progress and advise when you’re test-ready.
- Practice regularly for the best results.
- Everyone learns at their own pace.
Some learners feel test-ready in 30 hours. Others need more time to build confidence behind the wheel. What really matters isn’t the total - it’s the consistency.
The more often you drive, the more natural it becomes. Combining quality instructor lessons with regular practice builds confidence quickly.
Every learner progresses at their own pace, and that’s perfectly normal. Your instructor will adapt to your comfort level and guide you through each step with patience.
🧐 How to prepare for your first driving lesson
Getting ready for your first driving lesson is an exciting step - and a bit of preparation can help you feel more confident and relaxed on the day. Here’s a simple guide to help you make the most of it:
1. Check Your Provisional Licence
Before your lesson, make sure you have a valid provisional driving licence. Your instructor will need to see it to confirm you’re legally allowed to drive.
2. Get Familiar with the Basics
Take a few minutes to learn the basic layout of a car - the pedals, gear stick, steering wheel, and mirrors. Watching a short video or reading a beginner’s guide can help you feel more prepared.
3. Choose Comfortable Clothing
Wear clothes that allow you to move freely and flat-soled shoes that give you good control of the pedals. Avoid anything bulky or restrictive.
4. Bring the Essentials
Have your provisional licence with you, along with glasses or contact lenses if you need them to drive. A bottle of water is also a good idea to stay hydrated.
5. Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Feeling well-rested will help you stay focused and alert throughout your lesson.
6. Brush Up on the Highway Code
A quick review of key road signs, speed limits, and basic driving rules can give you a boost in confidence before you get behind the wheel. [download The Highway Code 2025 PDF]
7. Keep Your Expectations Realistic
Your first lesson is all about getting familiar with the car and starting to build your skills. Don’t worry about getting everything perfect - take it one step at a time.
With the right preparation and a calm mindset, you’ll be off to a great start.
🙏 What to expect on your first driving lesson
Your first driving lesson is a key milestone - it's where everything begins. The goal is to help you feel comfortable, introduce you to the car, and give you your first taste of driving. Here’s what typically happens during your first session:
1. Meet Your Instructor
You’ll meet your DVSA-registered driving instructor, who will check your provisional licence and have a quick chat about any experience or knowledge you already have.
2. Go Through the Cockpit Drill (DSSSM)
Before driving, you'll go through a quick safety routine to get set up properly:
- Doors - Make sure all doors are securely closed.
- Seat - Adjust your seat so you can reach the pedals comfortably.
- Steering - Adjust the steering wheel to suit your position.
- Seatbelt - Buckle up for safety.
- Mirrors - Position your mirrors for a clear view around the car.
3. Learn the Basic Car Controls
Your instructor will show you the key controls, including:
- Accelerator, brake, and clutch (if you're learning in a manual)
- Gear stick, handbrake, and indicators
- Other essentials like lights and wipers
4. Practice Moving Off and Stopping
You’ll start with the basics:
- How to start the engine safely
- Checking mirrors and blind spots
- Moving off smoothly and bringing the car to a controlled stop
5. Drive on Quiet Roads
If you're ready, your instructor may take you to a quiet area to practice simple driving skills like steering, gear changes, and stopping calmly.
6. Feedback and Next Steps
At the end of the lesson, your instructor will talk you through what went well and what to work on next time. This feedback helps you build confidence and track your progress.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Gillingham
Gillingham Practical Driving Test Centre
Unit 1, Astra Park, Courteney Road, Gillingham, Kent, ME8 0RZ
Maidstone Practical Driving Test Centre
Unit 1 North Court, South Park Business Village, Armstrong Road, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 6JZ
Herne Bay Practical Driving Test Centre
Altria Business Park, Margate Road, Thanet Way, Herne Bay, Kent, CT6 6GZ
Public Transport Guidance
Getting to Gillingham for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Gillingham, understanding train routes is key. If your driving lessons are in Gillingham, Kent, Southeastern and Thameslink services are your primary options. From London, direct trains to Gillingham (Kent) depart frequently from London Victoria, London Charing Cross, London Bridge, and London St Pancras International. For example, Southeastern trains from London Victoria reach Gillingham (Kent) in about an hour. Thameslink also offers services to Gillingham (Kent) from stations like London St Pancras International and Luton.
If your lessons are in Gillingham, Dorset, South Western Railway operates direct services to Gillingham (Dorset) from London Waterloo, taking approximately 1 hour 56 minutes. Towns like Salisbury also have Great Western Railway (GWR) connections, often requiring a change at Southampton Central for Gillingham (Dorset).
For the best fares to Gillingham, book your train tickets in advance. Aim for Off-Peak hours, generally outside Monday-Friday rush hours (before 07:00 AM, between 09:30 AM and 4:00 PM, and after 7:00 PM). Weekends and bank holidays are typically Off-Peak all day. Avoid Peak times, usually 07:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on weekdays, as trains to Gillingham will be busier and more expensive. You can book train tickets via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Gillingham, local bus services offer convenient access. Arriva is a primary operator for Gillingham, with routes connecting from various towns and villages. For instance, the Arriva 176 service runs from Walderslade to Gillingham, stopping at locations like Alexandra Hospital. The Arriva 1, 2, and 100 services connect Gillingham to Chatham. From Maidstone, the Arriva 101 service provides a direct link to Gillingham.
Stagecoach also operates services in Kent, including routes that serve the Medway area, encompassing Gillingham. For those travelling from Sittingbourne or the Isle of Sheppey, Chalkwell buses, such as the 334, connect to Sittingbourne Bus Hub, where you can transfer to Stagecoach X3 services towards Gillingham.
To avoid traffic and peak hours in Gillingham, aim to travel outside of typical weekday rush hours, generally before 7 AM or after 9 AM in the morning, and before 4 PM or after 6 PM in the evening. You can purchase bus tickets directly from the bus operator or explore options on Arriva UK Bus, Stagecoach Bus, or Busbud.
Fun Fact About Gillingham
Gillingham, Kent, boasts a history dating back to at least the 10th century, with its name possibly deriving from a warlord named Gyllingas, known for shouting in battle. A fun fact: for centuries, St. Mary Magdalene’s church tower was legally required to fly a White Ensign by day and burn a beacon by night to aid Medway navigators! Learn more about Gillingham.
Top Tips from our Experienced DVSA Approved Driving Instructor Experts
Q: How do I handle roundabouts without panicking?
"Stay calm by following the MSPSL routine (Mirrors, Signal, Position, Speed, Look) and always look right on approach. Practice with mini roundabouts first, then build up to larger ones using diagrams and videos for support."
Reginos Theodotou
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor for 20 years.
Q: What’s the correct way to check mirrors and signal?
"Check your mirrors before any change in direction, speed, or overtaking - act safely on what you see. Only signal if necessary, and make sure it’s correctly timed and clear."
Mali Summers
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: How do I stay calm before and during my driving lessons?
"Take deep breaths, remind yourself it's okay to make mistakes, and trust your instructor."
Shorif Kazi
DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: Is it easier to pass your driving test in an automatic car?
"Yes it much easier to pass in an automatic than a manual car. It’s especially effective for nervous drivers."
Mari Wright
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: What's the best way to learn clutch control?
"Practice clutch control in a quiet area by finding the bite point in first gear with light gas, checking all around (including blind spots), then releasing the handbrake.
Mali Summers
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: Why do some people choose automatic over manual?
"Some people choose automatic because it's quicker to learn, less stressful, and easier to practise if they have access to an automatic car.
Mari Wright
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: What should I do if I make a mistake while driving?
"Stay calm, don’t panic - your instructor is there to help. Just learn from it and keep going."
Shorif Kazi
DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: How do I stop stalling at junction and roundabout?
"To avoid stalling at junctions and roundabouts, plan ahead, use the correct gear and speed, and anticipate when you’ll need to move.
Mali Summers
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: How do I handle roundabouts without panicking?
"Knowledge, understanding when to go and when to wait."
Graham Morgan
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor for 15 years.
Q: How can I build my confidence if I’m a nervous driver?
"Practice regularly, start in quiet areas, and focus on small wins each lesson."
Shorif Kazi
DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: What do most people fail their driving test on?
"Interactions with others, junctions, meeting and roundabouts."
Graham Morgan
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor for 15 years.
Q: How many lessons does it really take to pass?
"It depends on the person, but most people need around 40–50 hours with a qualified instructor I have achieved 32 to 36 hours"
Shorif Kazi
DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: Can I drive a manual car if I pass in an automatic?
"If you pass in an automatic, you CANNOT unfortunately drive a manual car."
Mari Wright
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: What’s the number one mistake learners make?
"Trying to hard to be perfect. Mistakes are part of life."
Graham Morgan
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor for 15 years.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Gillingham. Choose from our discounted packages below and begin your driving lessons today!
Refresher Course
Save
2.7%
Experience level
You’ve done plenty of lessons before and just need to sharpen up before your test. A final push to get you over the line.
The 10 hour driving course on average takes 2 - 5 days/weeks.
Intermediate Course
Save
4.5%
Experience level
You’re halfway there - you’ve got the basics, but need structured time to build confidence and polish key skills.
The 20 hour driving course on average takes 1 - 10 weeks to complete.
Intermediate Course
Save
5%
Experience level
You’ve started learning but still need time behind the wheel to feel truly confident. This one bridges the gap.
The 30 hour driving course on average takes 1 - 15 weeks to complete.
Beginner Course
Save
5.5%
Experience level
You’re starting from scratch, and this is the full journey - from your first lesson through to test day.
The 40 hour driving course on average takes 1 - 20 weeks to complete.
🏆 Pass Guarantee
Pass first time or they will refund you your £23! See test fee back! T&Cs apply
HAVEN'T PASSED YOUR THEORY TEST YET?
Master the questions and hazard perception to pass your theory test first time
Rated Driving has partnered with the UK's No.1 Theory Test app from Driving Test Success. With Theory Test 4 in 1 you can study from 85 interactive Hazard Perception video clips from The latest Highway Code 2025 Edition. Sit unlimited mock tests to pass first time!
- 🥳 97% of people pass using the app
- 🎉 Helped over 18+ million learners
- 🙏 FREE Pass Guarantee
- Theory test questions
- Road signs
- Hazard perception
- DVSA & Smart AI
Start studying now, Download today.
Learner Driver Reviews in Gillingham 🙏
See why our learners in Gillingham love Rated Driving ♥️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Unforgettable Driving Journey in Gillingham
I never thought I’d enjoy driving, but Rated Driving in Gillingham changed that. Great instructor, great tips, and a big confidence boost – I passed with ease!
Freya W
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Stress-Free Driving Lessons in Gillingham
I never thought I’d enjoy driving, but Rated Driving in Gillingham changed that. Great instructor, great tips, and a big confidence boost – I passed with ease!
Freya P
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Top-Notch Driving Lessons in Gillingham
Learning to drive in Gillingham with Rated Driving was the best decision. I felt safe and supported throughout. Highly recommend them to anyone wanting to pass with confidence!
Jake Y
1600+ DVSA-Registered Driving Instructors
Excellent Learner Driver Reviews
Money-Back Guarantee Policy
WHAT CAN I GET
Gillingham Driving School Services
Learn to drive with the Rated Driving app
Manage every lesson, payment, and message in one place. Rated Driving connects you with a local instructor - so you stay focused on learning, not chasing responses.
Book Now
Block discount booking
Why pay more? When you block book your driving lessons, you unlock exclusive local discounts - without sacrificing quality. Smart learners book ahead and save. We’ll handle the rest.
Check Discounts
Female driving instructors Gillingham
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Gillingham who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Gillingham
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Gillingham who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Gillingham
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Gillingham ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Gillingham.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Gillingham today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Driving Instructors Near You in Gillingham
If you’re searching for driving instructors near me, convenience matters just as much as quality.
Our driving instructors in Gillingham cover key neighbourhoods and surrounding areas, allowing lessons to start and finish near your home, workplace, or place of study. This flexibility makes it easier to learn consistently — one of the biggest factors in passing sooner.
Lessons include real driving conditions you’ll face locally, such as:
- Residential roads and tight parking areas
- Busy city traffic and complex junctions
- Roundabouts and dual carriageways
- Test routes commonly used in Gillingham
Local knowledge gives learners a clear advantage.
Manual and Automatic Driving Instructors
Rated Driving offers both manual and automatic driving instructors in Gillingham, giving learners the freedom to choose what suits them best.
Automatic Driving Instructors Near You
Many learners now prefer automatic cars driving lessons because they remove the stress of clutch control and gear changes. Automatic lessons allow you to focus fully on road awareness, steering, and hazard perception — especially helpful in busy urban areas.
If you’re looking for a driving instructor automatic near you, we can match you with instructors who specialise in teaching automatic learners.
Driving Instructors in Gillingham – FAQs
1. Do you offer driving instructors in Gillingham?
Yes. We work with qualified driving instructors across Gillingham and nearby areas.
2. Can I find driving instructors near me?
Yes. Lessons are matched based on your location for maximum convenience.
3. Do you offer automatic driving instructors?
Yes. We have instructors who specialise in automatic cars driving lessons.
4. Can I choose a female driving instructor?
Yes, you can request a female driving instructor in Gillingham, subject to availability.
5. What are driving instructor prices in Gillingham?
Prices vary based on lesson type and instructor, but all pricing is transparent and discussed upfront.
6. Do you offer Pay As You Go lessons?
Yes. Pay As You Go lessons are available with no long-term commitment.
7. Is automatic easier than manual?
Many learners find automatic easier because there’s no clutch or gear control, especially in busy traffic.
8. Can I switch from manual to automatic?
Yes. Many learners switch and often progress faster after doing so.
9. Do lessons cover local test routes?
Yes. Instructors are familiar with test routes commonly used in Gillingham.
