Rated 'Excellent' on Trustpilot
Driving Lessons in Durham
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Durham instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Durham 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.
Pass Your Test With The Best 🎉
Ready to join the learners passing their driving tests with Rated Driving?
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 Durham 🙏
See why our learners in Durham love Rated Driving ♥️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Passed First Time in Durham – Thanks to Rated Driving!
My experience with Rated Driving in Durham was incredible. The lessons were structured, and my instructor made learning fun. I passed on my first try!
Amelia G
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Confident Behind the Wheel in Durham
From the first lesson in Durham, I knew I was in good hands. My instructor was so helpful and gave me all the tools to succeed. I passed first time!
Ethan X
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My Experience Learning to Drive in Durham
From the first lesson in Durham, I knew I was in good hands. My instructor was so helpful and gave me all the tools to succeed. I passed first time!
Grace T
Learning to drive in Durham
Durham 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 Durham, so you’ll know what to expect and how to handle each section without second guessing.
Taking driving lessons in Durham with Rated Driving offers a unique opportunity to learn in a vibrant and historic city. The convenience of local driving lessons means you can easily fit them into your schedule, whether you’re a student or working professional. With Rated Driving, you’ll benefit from experienced instructors who know the area well, ensuring you receive tailored guidance that suits your learning style.
Durham’s diverse driving conditions make it an ideal place for learners. You can practice on main roads like the A690, which provides a good mix of traffic and speed, while quieter residential streets such as those around the Durham University area allow for more relaxed driving practice. Additionally, navigating local roundabouts, such as the one near the Durham City Centre, will help you build confidence in handling more complex driving situations.
After your lessons, you can unwind at local attractions like the stunning Durham Cathedral or take a stroll along the scenic banks of the River Wear. These landmarks not only enhance your driving experience but also provide a perfect backdrop for celebrating your progress. Imagine finishing a lesson and then enjoying a coffee at a nearby café while reflecting on what you’ve learned.
For those preparing for the practical driving test, the nearest test centre is the Durham Driving Test Centre, conveniently located for easy access after your lessons. Additionally, if you need to take your theory test, the Durham Theory Test Centre is nearby, making it simple to complete all your driving requirements in one area.
Durham’s local roads and attractions create a supportive environment for learner drivers. The combination of practical driving experience and the chance to explore a beautiful city makes your lessons not just educational but enjoyable. With Rated Driving, you’ll receive personalized instruction that prepares you for both the test and real-world driving.
Don’t wait any longer to start your driving journey. Book your driving lessons in Durham today with Rated Driving and take the first step towards gaining your independence on the road!
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Durham
Durham Practical Driving Test Centre
1st Floor Enna House, Whitfield Court Industrial Estate, St Johns Rd, Meadowfield, Durham, DH7 8XL
Sunderland Practical Driving Test Centre
River Bank Road, North Hylton Road Industrial Estate, Sunderland, SR5 3JJ
Darlington Practical Driving Test Centre
DVSA High Point Business Park, Yarm Road, Darlington, County Durham, DL1 4PW
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 Durham for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
If you’re travelling to Durham from nearby towns like Darlington or Bishop Auckland, Northern Rail services frequently connect you to Durham station. From Hartlepool, you can take a direct train to Durham via the Tees Valley line. For those coming from Chester-le-Street, the local train service will also take you directly to Durham.
For the best experience, aim to travel during Off-Peak hours, avoiding the busy weekday rush from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. You can book your train tickets through Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
Durham is easily accessible by bus from nearby towns and villages. Arriva North East operates frequent services from Chester-le-Street (Route 21) and Bishop Auckland (Route 6) directly to Durham city centre. From Spennymoor, take the 36 service, which runs regularly throughout the day. The best times to travel to Durham are mid-morning or early afternoon to avoid peak traffic, particularly between 8 AM – 9 AM and 4 PM – 6 PM on weekdays. For bus tickets, check options on Arriva UK Bus or Trainline. Enjoy your driving lessons in Durham!
Fun Fact About Durham
Durham, known for its stunning cathedral and castle, was a key center for medieval scholarship. Fun fact: the city hosts the annual Durham Miners’ Gala, celebrating its rich mining heritage, attracting thousands each July. Discover more about this historic city at Durham.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Durham. 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 Durham driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Durham 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 Durham’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 Durham?
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 Durham’s roads inside out - so you can learn faster and pass with confidence.
- Local Experts, Ready to Go:
Over 29 DVSA-registered driving instructors across Durham including Durham, Brandon, Ushaw Moor & Sherburn.
- 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 Durham? 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
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.
1600+ DVSA-Registered Driving Instructors
Excellent Learner Driver Reviews
Money-Back Guarantee Policy
WHAT CAN I GET
Durham 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 Durham
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Durham who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Durham
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Durham who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Durham
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Durham ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Durham.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Durham today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover In Durham
Are you looking for the top driving lessons in nearby locations? Rated Driving also offers driving lessons in nearby areas, including:
Driving lessons in Durham FAQs
What are the local driving conditions like in Durham?
Durham features a mix of urban and rural driving conditions, with busy streets in the city centre and quieter roads in surrounding areas. Be prepared for various traffic situations, especially around popular spots like Durham Cathedral and Durham University.
Where is the nearest driving test centre in Durham?
The nearest driving test centre is located on Wharton Park Road. It’s essential to familiarise yourself with the area, as many driving tests will include routes that pass through local landmarks and busy junctions.
How can I book driving lessons in Durham with Rated Driving?
You can easily book your driving lessons in Durham through the Rated Driving website. Simply select your preferred instructor, choose your lesson times, and confirm your booking without any upfront costs.
What advice do you have for beginner drivers in Durham?
As a beginner driver in Durham, start by practising in quieter areas before tackling busier roads. Familiarise yourself with local traffic rules and be cautious around popular sites like Durham Castle, where pedestrian traffic can be high.
What is Rated Driving’s policy on refunds and instructor changes?
Rated Driving offers a flexible policy regarding refunds and instructor changes. If you need to change your instructor or request a refund, simply contact our support team, and we will assist you promptly.
Are there any payment options available for driving lessons in Durham?
Rated Driving provides flexible payment options, including pay-as-you-go lessons. Additionally, you can save up to £110 by purchasing lessons in bulk, making it easier to manage your budget while learning to drive.
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].
