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Driving Lessons in Katesgrove
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Katesgrove instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Katesgrove 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 Katesgrove 🙏
See why our learners in Katesgrove love Rated Driving ♥️
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Why I Recommend Driving Lessons in Katesgrove
I took my driving lessons with Rated Driving in Katesgrove. 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!
Leo K
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Friendly and Professional Instructors in Katesgrove
Learning to drive in Katesgrove with Rated Driving was the best decision. I felt safe and supported throughout. Highly recommend them to anyone wanting to pass with confidence!
Jake C
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Unforgettable Driving Journey in Katesgrove
I took my driving lessons with Rated Driving in Katesgrove. 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!
Freya V
Learning to drive in Katesgrove
Katesgrove 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 Katesgrove, 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 Reading, Katesgrove offers an ideal environment to master your driving skills. With its diverse road network and convenient location, Katesgrove provides a comprehensive learning experience. Rated Driving is proud to offer expert driving lessons in Katesgrove, ensuring you receive top-quality instruction tailored to your needs.
One of the key benefits of taking driving lessons in Katesgrove is the sheer convenience and accessibility it offers. Situated immediately south of Reading town centre, Katesgrove is easily reachable, making it simple to fit lessons into your schedule. The local driving conditions in Katesgrove are varied, providing an excellent training ground for learners. You’ll gain experience on quieter residential streets, perfect for practicing basic manoeuvres and building confidence. Roads like Southampton Street and London Road, which border or run through parts of Katesgrove, offer exposure to busier traffic conditions, helping you prepare for real-world driving scenarios. This mix of road types ensures that by the time you’re ready for your test, you’ll be comfortable navigating a wide range of situations.
Beyond the practicalities of learning, Katesgrove boasts several local attractions and landmarks that add to its appeal. After a productive driving lesson, you could take a relaxing stroll through Kendrick’s Park, a tranquil green space perfect for unwinding. History enthusiasts might enjoy a visit to the iconic Reading Abbey Ruins, a medieval monastery with a rich past, or delve into the region’s agricultural heritage at the Museum of English Rural Life. For those interested in the performing arts, the Progress Theatre is a vibrant hub showcasing diverse productions. These local gems make Katesgrove not just a place to learn, but a community to explore.
When it comes to taking your practical driving test, the Reading practical driving test centre, historically located on Elgar Road South in Katesgrove, has been a significant site for many years. While the original Katesgrove test centre closed in March 2025 for redevelopment, a new permanent location for the Reading driving test centre has been identified at Pacific House in Imperial Way, Whitley, which opened in June 2025. You can find more information about practical test centres on the official GOV.UK website. For your theory test, the nearest centre is the Reading DVSA Theory Test Centre, located at 7 Greyfriars Road, Reading. You can book your theory test and find more details on the GOV.UK theory test centre finder page.
Choosing Katesgrove for your driving lessons with Rated Driving means choosing a location that offers both convenience and a comprehensive learning environment. Our instructors are familiar with the local roads and conditions, ensuring you receive the best possible preparation. Don’t delay your journey to driving independence. Book your driving lessons in Katesgrove with Rated Driving today and take the first step towards confidently navigating the roads.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Katesgrove
Reading Driving Test Centre
220 Elgar Road South, Reading, Berkshire, RG2 0BW
Newbury (Hambridge Lane) Driving Test Centre
Hambridge Lane, Newbury, Berkshire, RG14 5TZ
Basingstoke Driving Test Centre
Brighton Hill Centre, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG22 4LR
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 Katesgrove for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
To reach Katesgrove for your driving lessons, your primary destination by train will be Reading Station, a major transport hub. Great Western Railway (GWR) services connect Reading to towns like Newbury, Oxford, and Basingstoke. South Western Railway offers routes from areas such as Ascot and Guildford to Reading. CrossCountry trains provide connections from further afield, including Birmingham and Manchester. Once at Reading Station, Katesgrove is easily accessible by bus. The number 11 Reading Buses service is particularly useful, with stops like Katesgrove Lane and Crown Street directly serving the Katesgrove area. The number 21 bus also serves Katesgrove.
For optimal travel to Katesgrove, aim for off-peak train times, typically outside weekday rush hours (7:00 AM – 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM). Weekends generally offer more relaxed journeys. Booking train tickets in advance via Trainline or MyTrainTicket can secure better fares.
Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Katesgrove, Reading Buses provides excellent public transport links. The ‘bronze 11’ service is key for reaching Katesgrove, with stops like Katesgrove Lane and Crown Street directly serving the area. This route connects Katesgrove to Reading Town Centre and Coley Park.
To avoid traffic, aim to travel to Katesgrove outside of typical peak hours, generally before 7 AM or after 9 AM in the morning, and after 6 PM in the evening on weekdays. Reading’s roads, including those leading to Katesgrove, can be busy during these times.
You can purchase bus tickets directly from the bus operator. For convenience, consider using the Reading Buses app for mobile tickets and live bus tracking. Alternatively, you can explore booking options via Busbud or FlixBus for journeys into Reading.
Fun Fact About Katesgrove
Katesgrove, Reading, historically thrived on industries like brickmaking and ironworks, with the Reading Iron Works active from 1818. A fun fact: Katesgrove House, a prominent 1611 landmark, was demolished in 1873 to build Katesgrove School, and once housed a French exile, Count Charles Jean d’Hector, who participated in efforts to restore the French monarchy. Learn more about Katesgrove.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Katesgrove. 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 Katesgrove driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Katesgrove 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 Katesgrove’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 Katesgrove?
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 Katesgrove’s roads inside out - so you can learn faster and pass with confidence.
- Local Experts, Ready to Go:
Over 67 DVSA-registered driving instructors across Berkshire including Katesgrove, Woodley, Finchampstead & Crowthorne.
- 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 Katesgrove? 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
Katesgrove 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 Katesgrove
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Katesgrove who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Katesgrove
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Katesgrove who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Katesgrove
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Katesgrove ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Katesgrove.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Katesgrove today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover Near Katesgrove, Berkshire
Are you looking for the top driving lessons in nearby locations? Rated Driving also offers driving lessons in nearby areas, including:
Driving lessons in Katesgrove FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions in Katesgrove for learners?
Katesgrove offers a varied environment for learning to drive, with opportunities to practice different skills. You’ll gain confidence navigating main roads and thoroughfares, as well as perfecting manoeuvres in quieter residential areas. Instructors also provide experience on dual carriageways to boost confidence in traffic.
Where is the nearest driving test centre to Katesgrove?
The Reading DVSA Driving Test Centre, previously located on Elgar Road South in Katesgrove, closed on 22nd March 2025., Driving tests are now conducted from the Holiday Inn Reading South, with a new permanent centre at Pacific House, Imperial Way, which opened on 26th June 2025.
How can I book driving lessons in Katesgrove with Rated Driving?
Booking driving lessons with Rated Driving in Katesgrove is straightforward. You can book online anytime or call 0330 043 9896 to get started quickly. Rated Driving aims to match you with a local, DVSA-registered instructor who knows the Katesgrove area well.
What advice do you have for beginner drivers in Katesgrove?
For beginners in Katesgrove, it’s recommended to start slowly in quieter areas to master basic vehicle controls before progressing to busier roads. Your Rated Driving instructor will guide you through various scenarios, including town centre navigation and dual carriageway driving, to build your confidence and skills.
What are Rated Driving’s policies on refunds and lesson payments in Katesgrove?
Rated Driving offers a “100% Money Back Guarantee” for the first hour of your initial driving lesson if you’re not satisfied, provided you contact them within 24 hours. For subsequent lessons, payments are typically made in advance, and while there’s no deposit for standard lessons, you can save up to £110 by purchasing lessons in bulk.,
Can I change my driving instructor with Rated Driving in Katesgrove?
Rated Driving aims to match you with a suitable instructor. While it’s generally not possible to change instructors once allocated unless there’s a material issue, Rated Driving will endeavour to connect you with a replacement instructor if a material issue is determined.,
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].
