Rated 'Excellent' on Trustpilot
Driving Lessons in Great Wakering
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Great Wakering instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Great Wakering 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 Great Wakering 🙏
See why our learners in Great Wakering love Rated Driving ♥️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Top-Notch Driving Lessons in Great Wakering
My experience with Rated Driving in Great Wakering was incredible. The lessons were structured, and my instructor made learning fun. I passed on my first try!
Jake F
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Unforgettable Driving Journey in Great Wakering
Learning to drive in Great Wakering with Rated Driving was the best decision. I felt safe and supported throughout. Highly recommend them to anyone wanting to pass with confidence!
Grace M
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Confident Behind the Wheel in Great Wakering
Learning to drive in Great Wakering with Rated Driving was the best decision. I felt safe and supported throughout. Highly recommend them to anyone wanting to pass with confidence!
Emily N
Learning to drive in Great Wakering
Great Wakering 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 Great Wakering, 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 Essex, Great Wakering offers an ideal environment to master your driving skills, combining convenience with diverse road conditions. Rated Driving is your go-to provider for driving lessons in Great Wakering, offering tailored manual and automatic lessons with top independent instructors who possess invaluable local expertise.
One of the key benefits of taking driving lessons in Great Wakering is the variety of roads available for practice. The village primarily consists of two main roads: the High Street, which runs from the junction of Star Lane, and New Road, extending down to the bridges for Foulness Island. These main arteries provide excellent opportunities to practice navigating through a village setting. For quieter residential practice, your instructor might guide you through streets like Common Road, Barling Road, or Church Road, allowing you to build confidence in less congested areas. As you progress, you’ll also encounter junctions and potentially mini-roundabouts, such as those near the High Street and Star Lane, which are crucial for developing your observational and decision-making skills. The B1017 Southend Road, a relatively high-speed single-carriage road leading out of the village, offers a chance to experience faster driving conditions and practice appropriate speed control.
Beyond the practicalities of learning to drive, Great Wakering boasts a charming community feel and several local attractions that make the area appealing. After a productive driving lesson, you could take a relaxing stroll around Great Wakering Common, a lovely green space with delightful views across the river creeks. History enthusiasts might appreciate a visit to the Church of St Nicholas, a Norman-era parish church that has stood for centuries. For those interested in local sports, the Burroughs Park, home to Great Wakering Rovers Football Club, is a prominent local landmark. You could also explore the unique coastal landscape by accessing the MOD beach at Wakering Stairs when firing is not taking place, offering views over the Maplin Sands and a chance to spot Brent geese and waders.
When it comes to taking your practical driving test, the nearest centre to Great Wakering is the Southend-on-Sea Driving Test Centre, located at The Tickfield Centre, Tickfield Industrial Estate, Tickfield Ave, Southend-on-Sea, SS2 6LL. You can find more information about this centre on the GOV.UK website: Find a driving test centre. For your theory test, the nearest facility is the Southend-on-Sea Theory Test Centre, situated at Tylers House, 5 Tylers Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 2BB. Further details can be found on the GOV.UK theory test centre finder page: Find a theory test centre.
With Rated Driving, you’re not just getting driving lessons; you’re gaining the confidence and skills to navigate the roads of Great Wakering and beyond, all while benefiting from instructors who truly understand the local driving landscape. Don’t delay your journey to independence. Book your driving lessons in Great Wakering with Rated Driving today and start your path to becoming a confident and safe driver.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Great Wakering
Southend-on-Sea Driving Test Centre
The Tickfield Centre, Tickfield Industrial Estate, Tickfield Ave, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS2 6LL
Basildon Driving Test Centre
Paycocke Road, Basildon, Essex, SS14 3JS
Chelmsford (Hanbury Road) Driving Test Centre
Hanbury Road, Widford Industrial Estate, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 3DR
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 Great Wakering for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
To reach Great Wakering for your driving lessons, public transport primarily involves a train journey to a nearby station followed by a bus. Great Wakering does not have its own train station.
If you’re travelling from London, take a c2c train from Fenchurch Street to Shoeburyness. This journey typically takes around 1 hour and 4 minutes. Alternatively, from London Liverpool Street, you can take a Greater Anglia service to Southend Victoria, which takes approximately 57 minutes.
From Shoeburyness, the nearest railway station to Great Wakering, you can take the Arriva bus routes 4, 4A, or 9A directly into Great Wakering. The bus journey from Shoeburyness to Great Wakering takes about 12 minutes. If arriving at Southend Victoria, head to Southend Travel Centre for bus services to Great Wakering. The 9A bus from Southend Central Bus Station goes through Shoebury and Great Wakering.
For optimal travel to Great Wakering, aim for off-peak train times, generally outside weekday rush hours (7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM). Weekends offer unrestricted off-peak travel. Booking train tickets in advance can also secure better fares. You can book train tickets via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Great Wakering, public transport is primarily bus-based, connecting from nearby towns and villages. From Southend-on-Sea, you can take the Arriva Herts and Essex 9A bus from The Seaway Car Park directly to The Red Lion in Great Wakering, a journey of approximately 26 minutes, with services every 30 minutes. The First Essex 4A also connects Landwick Cottages in Great Wakering to Southend Travel Centre.
If travelling from Shoeburyness, the Arriva Herts and Essex 9A bus from Campfield Road reaches The Red Lion in Great Wakering in about 12 minutes, operating Monday to Saturday every 30 minutes. Alternatively, the Stephensons of Essex 14 bus from Shoeburyness station also serves Great Wakering, taking around 7 minutes. From Rochford, the Arriva Herts and Essex bus from East Street offers a direct service to The Renown in Great Wakering, running every 20 minutes and taking about 57 minutes. Stephensons of Essex also operates the 807, 808, and 811 routes connecting Rochford and Great Wakering.
For optimal travel to Great Wakering, aim for off-peak hours to avoid potential traffic congestion, especially during weekday mornings (7 AM – 10 AM) and evenings (4 PM – 7 PM). You can purchase bus tickets directly from the bus operator or explore options on Arriva UK Bus or First Bus.
Fun Fact About Great Wakering
Great Wakering, Essex, boasts a history dating back to Neolithic times, with Roman and Saxon settlements also evident. Its 12th-century St. Nicholas Church stands on the site of a 7th-century monastery, believed to be the burial place of two murdered Kentish princes. Fun fact: Great Wakering holds the Guinness World Record as the “Driest Place in the United Kingdom.” Learn more about Great Wakering.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Great Wakering. 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 Great Wakering driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Great Wakering 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 Great Wakering’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 Great Wakering?
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 Great Wakering’s roads inside out - so you can learn faster and pass with confidence.
- Local Experts, Ready to Go:
Over 288 DVSA-registered driving instructors across Essex including Great Wakering, Epping, Clacton-on-Sea & Buckhurst Hill.
- 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 Great Wakering? 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
Great Wakering 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 Great Wakering
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Great Wakering who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Great Wakering
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Great Wakering who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Great Wakering
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Great Wakering ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Great Wakering.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Great Wakering today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover Near Great-wakering, Essex
Are you looking for the top driving lessons in nearby locations? Rated Driving also offers driving lessons in nearby areas, including:
Driving lessons in Great Wakering FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions like in Great Wakering?
Great Wakering offers a varied environment for learning to drive, with a mix of residential streets and connections to larger roads. You’ll gain experience navigating the village’s main thoroughfares like High Street and New Road, which lead towards Foulness Island, as well as quieter residential areas to perfect your manoeuvres.
Where is the nearest driving test centre for learners in Great Wakering?
The closest practical driving test centre for learners in Great Wakering is located in Southend-on-Sea. It’s situated at The Tickfield Centre, Tickfield Industrial Estate, Tickfield Avenue, SS2 6LL.
How do I book driving lessons in Great Wakering with Rated Driving?
Booking driving lessons with Rated Driving in Great Wakering is straightforward. You can easily book online or call us to get started in as little as 10 minutes. We offer flexible scheduling to fit your availability.
What advice do you have for beginner drivers in Great Wakering?
For beginners in Great Wakering, our instructors will help you build confidence on local roads, starting with basic controls and moving to more complex situations. You’ll practise town centre navigation, residential skills, and dual carriageway experience on routes like the nearby A127, ensuring you’re well-prepared for diverse traffic conditions.
What are Rated Driving’s policies on refunds and lesson payments in Great Wakering?
Rated Driving offers a 100% Money Back Guarantee for the first hour of your initial lesson if you’re not satisfied, provided you contact us within 24 hours. For subsequent lessons, a standard 48-hour notice is required to cancel or rearrange, otherwise, you may forfeit the lesson without a refund. We offer pay-as-you-go options, and you can save up to £110 by purchasing lessons in bulk.
Can I change my driving instructor with Rated Driving in Great Wakering?
While instructor changes are generally not possible once allocated, Rated Driving will endeavour to rebook you with a new instructor if there is a material issue, such as an instructor repeatedly not attending lessons or conducting them incompetently. Minor personality conflicts are not considered grounds for a change.
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].
