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Driving Lessons in Ely
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🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Ely 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 Ely 🙏
See why our learners in Ely love Rated Driving ♥️
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Top-Notch Driving Lessons in Ely
Rated Driving in Ely made learning to drive a breeze. The instructor helped me stay calm and focused, and I passed first time. Great service!
Ethan T
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Friendly and Professional Instructors in Ely
My experience with Rated Driving in Ely was incredible. The lessons were structured, and my instructor made learning fun. I passed on my first try!
Noah Y
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Stress-Free Driving Lessons in Ely
From the first lesson in Ely, I knew I was in good hands. My instructor was so helpful and gave me all the tools to succeed. I passed first time!
Emily M
Learning to drive in Ely
Ely 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 Ely, 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 Cambridgeshire, Ely offers an exceptional environment to master the roads, and with Rated Driving, you’ll be in expert hands every step of the way.
Ely provides a unique blend of driving conditions that are ideal for learners. From the quieter residential streets, perfect for getting to grips with basic manoeuvres and building confidence, to the more bustling main roads like the A10, which runs through Ely, you’ll gain invaluable experience navigating various traffic flows. Practising on roads such as Lynn Road or Prickwillow Road can help you develop your skills in different scenarios, preparing you for anything the road throws at you. The city’s accessibility also means less time spent travelling to suitable practice areas and more time focused on your driving.
Beyond the practicalities, Ely is a city rich in history and charm, offering plenty to explore once your lesson is complete. Imagine finishing a successful driving session and then taking a stroll to admire the magnificent Ely Cathedral, often referred to as “the Ship of the Fens” due to its prominent shape towering over the flat landscape. You could also delve into the past at Oliver Cromwell’s House, the former family home of the Lord Protector, which has been refurbished to show how it may have looked during his lifetime. For those interested in local heritage, Ely Museum, housed in the historic Old Gaol, tells the story of the Fens and its people. These local attractions not only make Ely an appealing place to learn but also provide excellent opportunities to practice independent driving and navigation after your initial lessons.
When it comes to the official tests, while Ely itself doesn’t have a practical driving test centre, the nearest option for your practical driving test is the Cambridge Driving Test Centre. You can find more information about booking your practical test on the general GOV.UK page: Find a driving test centre. For your theory test, the Ely Theory Test Centre has been withdrawn and is no longer in operation. The nearest theory test centre is located in Cambridge, near Tenpin Cambridge. You can find details about the Cambridge Theory Test Centre on the GOV.UK website or a general theory test centre finder page: Find a theory test centre.
Choosing Rated Driving for your lessons in Ely means you’ll benefit from experienced instructors who are familiar with the local roads and test routes, ensuring you’re fully prepared for both your theory and practical tests. Their expertise in navigating the unique driving conditions of Ely will give you the confidence and skills needed to become a safe and proficient driver.
Ready to embark on your driving journey in the beautiful city of Ely? Don’t delay your path to independence. Book your driving lessons in Ely with Rated Driving today and take the first step towards gaining your full driving licence.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Ely
Cambridge (Brookmount Court)
Units A & B Brookmount Court, Kirkwood Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 2QH
Bury St Edmunds
Triton House, St Andrews Street North, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP33 1TJ
King’s Lynn
Rollesby Road, Hardwick Industrial Estate, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 4LS
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 Ely for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Ely, public transport is a convenient option. If you’re coming from Cambridge, direct Great Northern or Greater Anglia trains frequently run to Ely, taking around 18-19 minutes. From Peterborough, CrossCountry, Greater Anglia, or East Midlands Railway services offer direct trains to Ely, with journeys typically lasting 33-36 minutes. Littleport and Downham Market also have direct Great Northern services to Ely, taking approximately 8-11 minutes and 17-20 minutes respectively. From Newmarket, you’ll need to take a Greater Anglia train to Cambridge and then change for a service to Ely, with the total journey around 49 minutes.
For the best fares to Ely, book your train tickets in advance and aim for Off-Peak hours. These are generally outside Monday-Friday rush hours (before 06:30, between 09:30 and 16:00, and after 19:00). Weekends and bank holidays are typically Off-Peak all day. Avoid Peak times, usually 06:30 to 09:30 and 16:00 to 19:00 on weekdays, as tickets are more expensive and trains to Ely will be busier. You can book train tickets via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Ely, public transport is a convenient option. From Cambridge, the Stagecoach East service 9 and A2B Bus & Coach (Royston) service 9 offer direct routes to Ely, typically arriving at Cardinals Way or Market Street. The journey from Cambridge to Ely takes approximately 51-55 minutes.
If you’re travelling from Newmarket to Ely, Stephensons of Essex operates the 112 bus service, which runs hourly from The Guineas Bus Station to Market Street in Ely, taking about 51-53 minutes. For those in Littleport, the A2B Bus & Coach (Royston) service 9 from Crown Lane provides a direct bus to Ely’s Market Street, with a journey time of around 27-29 minutes. From Soham, the Stephensons of Essex 112 bus connects White Hart Lane or Ten Bell Lane to Back Hill or Tesco in Ely, with an estimated travel time of 16-18 minutes.
To avoid peak traffic, aim to travel to Ely outside of typical rush hours, generally before 7 AM and after 10 AM in the mornings, and before 4 PM or after 7 PM in the evenings on weekdays. Bus services may have reduced frequency on weekends and holidays, so always check timetables in advance.
You can book bus tickets and check detailed timetables on operator websites like Stagecoach East or Go-Coach Hire, or through platforms like Trainline and Busbud.
Fun Fact About Ely
Ely, Cambridgeshire, was historically an “island” accessible only by boat until the Fens were drained in the 17th century. Its name is believed to derive from “Eilig,” meaning “district of eels,” reflecting the area’s historical importance for eel fishing. The city’s iconic Ely Cathedral, known as “The Ship of the Fens,” was once so wealthy that its monks paid for building stone with 8,000 eels annually.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Ely. 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 Ely driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Ely 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 Ely’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 Ely?
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 Ely’s roads inside out - so you can learn faster and pass with confidence.
- Local Experts, Ready to Go:
Over 98 DVSA-registered driving instructors across Cambridgeshire including Ely, Sawston, Littleport & Soham.
- 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 Ely? 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
Ely 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.
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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 Ely
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Ely who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Ely
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Ely who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Ely
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Ely ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Ely.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Ely today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover Near Ely, Cambridgeshire
Are you looking for the top driving lessons in nearby locations? Rated Driving also offers driving lessons in nearby areas, including:
Driving lessons in Ely FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions like in Ely for learner drivers?
Ely offers a varied environment for learner drivers, combining quieter residential streets with busier main roads like the A10 and A142, which connect Ely to nearby towns. This mix allows learners to practice different skills, from navigating junctions and roundabouts to handling higher speeds. Our local instructors are well-versed in these conditions, ensuring you gain confidence on all types of roads in and around Ely.
Where is the nearest driving test centre to Ely, and what should I expect?
The nearest theory test centre is located in Ely itself, at Centre E, 24 Barton Road, CB7 4DE, near King’s Ely Junior School. For practical driving tests, while Ely has a theory test centre, you might need to travel to nearby towns like Cambridge or Bury St Edmunds for your practical test. Rated Driving instructors in Ely are familiar with the local test routes and will help you prepare thoroughly for your practical exam, including practice on roads similar to those you’ll encounter on test day.
How do I book driving lessons in Ely with Rated Driving, and what payment options are available?
Booking driving lessons in Ely with Rated Driving is straightforward. You can book online anytime or call us to get started quickly. We offer flexible scheduling and match you with a local DVSA-registered instructor. For standard driving lessons, there’s no deposit or upfront cost required, and you can pay as you go. You can also save up to £110 by purchasing lessons in bulk.
What advice do you have for beginner drivers starting lessons in Ely?
For beginners in Ely, we recommend starting in quieter areas to build fundamental skills like steering, braking, and gear changes. Your Rated Driving instructor will guide you through these basics, gradually introducing you to more complex situations as you gain confidence. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and consistent practice, even in low-traffic areas, will significantly help your progress.
What is Rated Driving’s policy on refunds and changing instructors in Ely?
Rated Driving offers a “100% Money Back Guarantee” for the first hour of your initial driving lesson if you’re not satisfied; simply contact us within 24 hours for a full refund. If you wish to change instructors, it’s possible if there’s a material issue, and we will endeavour to connect you with a replacement. Payments made within 30 days are refundable based on agreed hours and value, but after 30 days, no refund is due.
Are there any specific local driving challenges in Ely that learners should be aware of?
Learners in Ely should be prepared for varying road conditions, including rural roads and the busier A10 and A142. While Ely generally has good driving conditions, it’s important to be aware of potential traffic around landmarks like Ely Cathedral or during local events. Your Rated Driving instructor will help you navigate these specific local challenges, ensuring you’re confident in all situations.
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].
