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Driving Lessons in Oakley
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Oakley instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Oakley with DVSA-approved instructors who know local test routes inside out. Whether you’re a beginner or refreshing your skills, Rated Driving connects you with trusted instructors for flexible, affordable driving lessons.
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Autumn Savings Are Here!
Autumn Sale!
This autumn, 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!
Learner Driver Reviews in Oakley 🙏
See why our learners in Oakley love Rated Driving ♥️
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My Experience Learning to Drive in Oakley
My experience with Rated Driving in Oakley was incredible. The lessons were structured, and my instructor made learning fun. I passed on my first try!
Emily X
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Confident Behind the Wheel in Oakley
My experience with Rated Driving in Oakley was incredible. The lessons were structured, and my instructor made learning fun. I passed on my first try!
Ethan B
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Stress-Free Driving Lessons in Oakley
I took my driving lessons with Rated Driving in Oakley. The instructor was brilliant – calm, clear, and super supportive. I felt completely ready by the time my test came around and passed with just 1 minor!
Amelia O
Learning to drive in Oakley
Oakley is ideal for learners. Quiet back roads build confidence, while busy town centres sharpen practical skills.
- Town Centre Navigation: Tackle busy high streets, junctions and roundabouts - ideal for building confidence and quick decision-making.
- Residential Skills: Hone your skills on clutch control tips by practicing on quiet residential roads for skill-building.
- Dual Carriageway Experience: Get used to faster roads and lane discipline - including how to join, exit and keep calm at speed.
- Rural Roads: Practice tight bends, blind spots and country lanes - all great for sharpening your awareness and reactions.
- Test Route Familiarity: Your instructor will help you cover local test routes in Oakley, so you’ll know what to expect and how to handle each section without second guessing.
Learning to drive is a significant milestone, and choosing the right location for your lessons can make all the difference. For those in Hampshire, Oakley offers an ideal environment to master the roads, and with Rated Driving, you’ll be in expert hands.
Oakley, a charming village nestled in the borough of Basingstoke and Deane, provides a fantastic blend of road types, perfect for comprehensive driving lessons. You’ll gain confidence navigating the quieter residential streets of East Oakley and Church Oakley, where you can practice fundamental manoeuvres without the pressure of heavy traffic. As your skills develop, your Rated Driving instructor will guide you onto busier routes like the B3400, which runs through Oakley, allowing you to experience varying speed limits and traffic conditions. This gradual progression ensures you’re well-prepared for any driving scenario you might encounter. The convenience and accessibility of Oakley make it a prime spot for learners, with instructors often able to pick you up directly from your home in Oakley.
Beyond the practicalities, Oakley boasts a delightful local character that makes learning to drive here even more appealing. Imagine taking a break from your lessons and enjoying the picturesque village green with its duck pond, surrounded by charming thatched houses. After a productive driving lesson in Oakley, you could unwind with a stroll around the beautiful grounds of Oakley Hall, an impressive 18th-century Georgian manor now operating as a hotel, located just to the west of the village. For those who enjoy the outdoors, the Wayfarers Way, a long-distance walking trail, passes close by, offering a chance to clear your head. These local attractions provide excellent opportunities to relax and reflect on your progress as you become more familiar with driving in Oakley.
When it comes to the practical driving test, the nearest centre to Oakley is the Basingstoke Driving Test Centre, located at Brighton Hill Centre, RG22 4LR. Your Rated Driving instructor will ensure you are thoroughly prepared for the specific routes and challenges associated with this test centre. For your theory test, the nearest centre in Hampshire is the Basingstoke Theory Test Centre. You can find more information about both practical and theory test centres on the official GOV.UK website: Find a driving test centre and Find a theory test centre.
Learning to drive in Oakley with Rated Driving means receiving comprehensive, tailored tuition from experienced instructors who understand the local roads. They will not only help you pass your test but also instill good driving habits that will last a lifetime. The supportive and engaging learning environment in Oakley, combined with the expertise of Rated Driving, makes it the ideal place to begin your driving journey.
Ready to take the wheel and experience the freedom of the open road in Oakley? Don’t delay your journey to becoming a confident and safe driver. Book your driving lessons in Oakley with Rated Driving today and start your adventure.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Oakley
Bedford Driving Test Centre
Manton Lane, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK41 7NY
Luton Driving Test Centre
6 – 10 Adelaide Street, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 5BT
Leighton Buzzard Driving Test Centre
Leighton Road, Stanbridge, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire, LU7 4QG
Unsure Which Package is Right for You?
Not sure how many hours you need? We’ve broken it down to help you choose based on where you're at. Still stuck? Speak to our team on the live chat or give us a call on 0330 043 9896 (the same number for our business WhatsApp)
Public Transport Guidance
Getting to Oakley for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Oakley, efficient public transport is key. While Oakley itself doesn’t have an active train station, having closed to passengers in 1958, nearby Basingstoke is a major hub.
If you’re coming from London, direct South Western Railway services from London Waterloo frequently arrive at Basingstoke. From Basingstoke, you can catch the Stagecoach 11 bus service directly into Oakley, with stops like Itchen Close and Breach Farm. This bus route is specifically designed for travel between Basingstoke and Oakley.
For the best fares to Oakley, book your train tickets in advance and consider travelling during Off-Peak hours (outside Monday-Friday rush hours and anytime on weekends). Peak times, generally 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on weekdays, can be busier. You can book train tickets via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Oakley, public transport is a reliable option. Stagecoach South operates key bus services into Oakley.
From Basingstoke, the Stagecoach No. 11 bus provides an hourly service directly into Oakley, stopping at locations like Itchen Close and Pond. Alternatively, the No. 76 bus runs between Basingstoke and Andover along the B3400, with a stop at Pack Lane/Fox Lane crossroads, which is near Oakley. The journey from Basingstoke to Oakley on the No. 76 bus takes approximately 16 minutes.
If you’re travelling from Whitchurch, the Stagecoach No. 76 bus offers a direct route to Oakley, taking about 18 minutes to reach stops like Beach Arms Hotel. For those coming from Tadley, there isn’t a direct bus to Oakley. You’ll need to take the No. 76 bus from Lightsfield to Basingstoke Railway Station, then transfer to a No. 2 bus to Rowan Road, with the total journey taking around 38 minutes.
For optimal travel to Oakley, aim for off-peak hours, generally after 9:30 AM on weekdays and all day on weekends, to avoid heavier traffic. Peak hours, typically weekday mornings (before 9:30 AM) and evenings (4 PM – 7 PM), can experience increased journey times.
You can purchase bus tickets directly from the bus operator or via their mobile apps. For Stagecoach services to Oakley, consider using the Stagecoach Bus App for journey planning, live bus tracking, and mobile tickets.
Fun Fact About Oakley
The village of Oakley in Buckinghamshire, England, has a history stretching back to before the Norman Conquest, with evidence of settlement from around 7000–6000 BC. A lesser-known fact is that in 1963, Leatherslade Farm near Oakley was used as a hideout by the criminal gang involved in the Great Train Robbery.
For more historical details, visit Oakley.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Oakley. 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.
Our Oakley driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Oakley and surrounding areas, carefully selected to match your learning style, schedule, and preferences.
Choose a male or female instructor you’ll feel comfortable with
Local-route experts – every instructor knows Oakley’s test routes inside out
Multi-language support – several instructors teach in additional languages
Learn in a manual or automatic - whichever gets you confident faster
All instructors are fully DBS-checked and DVSA-registered
Many specialise in helping nervous learners feel at ease behind the wheel
Evening and weekend lessons available for tight schedules
Why Choose Rated Driving for Driving Lessons in Oakley?
Whether you're learning from scratch or helping someone else get started, finding the right instructor can feel overwhelming. That’s where we step in. At Rated Driving, we connect you with trusted DVSA-registered instructors who know Oakley’s roads inside out - so you can learn faster and pass with confidence.
- Local Experts, Ready to Go:
Over 126 DVSA-registered driving instructors across Bedfordshire including Oakley, Wixams, Elstow & Shortstown.
- Pick What Works for You: Male or female instructors. Manual or automatic. You choose - we arrange.
- All Types of Lessons: Including Pass Plus & motorway driving lessons
- Reviews You Can Trust: Over 20,000 learners passed through us. Rated Excellent on Trustpilot (4.8/5) and Google (4.9/5).
- No Match? No Risk: We want all our learners to have a great experience with us, if you are not happy after your first lesson, let us know and we will refund you with our money-back guarantee. (T&C’s apply).
- Track Everything in the App: Use our award-winning app to manage bookings, log progress and prep for test day.
Which Option is Right For You?
Where to start?
Looking to learn to drive in Oakley? 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.
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. Read More
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.
Read More
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.Read More
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.
🏆 Pass Guarantee
Pass first time or they will refund you your £23! See test fee back! T&Cs apply
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WHAT CAN I GET
Oakley 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 Oakley
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Oakley who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Oakley
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Oakley who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Oakley
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Oakley ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Oakley.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Oakley today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover Near Oakley, Bedfordshire
Are you looking for the top driving lessons in nearby locations? Rated Driving also offers driving lessons in nearby areas, including:
Driving lessons in Oakley FAQs
What are the local driving conditions like in Oakley?
Oakley offers a varied environment for learning to drive, from quieter residential streets perfect for beginners to busier main roads. Your instructor will help you navigate different scenarios, including local routes around areas like Oakley village and connecting roads to nearby towns, ensuring you gain confidence in diverse traffic conditions.
Where is the nearest driving test centre to Oakley?
The nearest practical driving test centre for learners in Oakley is typically the Basingstoke Driving Test Centre on Sullivan Road, Brighton Hill. Your Rated Driving instructor will be familiar with the test routes and local conditions around this centre to help you prepare effectively.
How do I book driving lessons in Oakley with Rated Driving?
Booking driving lessons in Oakley with Rated Driving is straightforward. Simply visit our website, enter your postcode, and we’ll match you with a local, DVSA-approved instructor. You can then choose flexible scheduling options and pay as you go, with no deposit or upfront costs for standard lessons. Rated Driving also offers discounts for bulk lesson purchases, allowing you to save up to £110.
What advice do you have for beginner drivers in Oakley?
For beginners in Oakley, we recommend starting your lessons on quieter roads to build fundamental skills and confidence. Your Rated Driving instructor will guide you through essential manoeuvres in suitable areas before progressing to busier routes. Consistent practice, both with your instructor and privately if possible, is key to success.
What are Rated Driving’s policies on refunds, instructor changes, or lesson payments in Oakley?
Rated Driving offers flexible payment options, including pay-as-you-go for standard lessons, meaning no deposit or upfront cost is required. We aim to match you with the best local instructor, but if you need to discuss instructor changes or have questions about our refund policy, our support team is available to assist you. Full details are available on the Rated Driving website.
Can I take intensive driving lessons in Oakley?
Yes, Rated Driving can arrange intensive or semi-intensive driving courses in Oakley to help you fast-track your learning and prepare for your test more quickly. These courses are tailored to your needs and can be a great option if you’re looking to pass your test in a shorter timeframe.
Who provides the lessons?
Rated Driving acts as a booking agent. We arrange your driving lessons by matching you with a DVSA-registered, independent driving instructor. While we manage the booking and coordination, all driving lessons are delivered directly by the instructor, not by Rated Driving.
Can I use my own car for driving lessons?
No, all learners use their instructor's dual-controlled car for safety. To practice in your own car, you will need temporary learner driver insurance - we recommend [Link: GoShorty temporary learner insurance].
