Rated 'Excellent' on Trustpilot
Driving Lessons in Oldham
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Oldham instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Oldham 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 Oldham 🙏
See why our learners in Oldham love Rated Driving ♥️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Stress-Free Driving Lessons in Oldham
I took my driving lessons with Rated Driving in Oldham. 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!
Sophie K
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Passed First Time in Oldham – Thanks to Rated Driving!
Rated Driving in Oldham made learning to drive a breeze. The instructor helped me stay calm and focused, and I passed first time. Great service!
Liam U
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Top-Notch Driving Lessons in Oldham
From the first lesson in Oldham, I knew I was in good hands. My instructor was so helpful and gave me all the tools to succeed. I passed first time!
Freya C
Learning to drive in Oldham
Oldham 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 Oldham, 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 Greater Manchester, Oldham offers an ideal environment to master your driving skills, and Rated Driving is here to guide you every step of the way.
Oldham provides a diverse range of driving conditions, perfect for building confidence and experience. You’ll navigate the bustling town centre, where you can practice hazard perception and lane discipline on main roads like the A62 Manchester Road and Huddersfield Road, which can be busy with commuter traffic. The town’s complex network of one-way roads and larger junctions, such as the Elk Mill Roundabout and King Street Roundabout, offer excellent opportunities to refine your planning and lane discipline when joining and exiting roundabouts. For those initial lessons, quieter residential streets in areas like Chadderton, Royton, Lees, and Shaw provide a calm setting to get comfortable with basic vehicle control and manoeuvres. Rated Driving instructors are intimately familiar with these local roads, ensuring your lessons are tailored to the specific challenges and nuances of driving in Oldham.
Beyond the practicalities of learning, Oldham boasts a rich history and a variety of attractions that make it a vibrant place to learn. After a productive driving lesson, you could unwind with a visit to the award-winning Gallery Oldham, exploring its diverse exhibitions and the borough’s heritage. For a breath of fresh air, Alexandra Park, a spacious Victorian park with a boating lake and well-maintained gardens, offers a perfect spot to relax. Alternatively, explore the natural beauty of Tandle Hill Country Park, Oldham’s oldest country park, offering stunning views across the Manchester Plain and the Pennine Hills. You might even find yourself practicing your driving near the historic Oldham Coliseum Theatre, a well-established venue in the North West.
When you’re ready to take your practical driving test, the nearest centre to Oldham is the Chadderton Driving Test Centre, located at Broadway Business Park, Broadgate, Chadderton, Oldham, Greater Manchester, OL9 9XA. This centre provides a variety of road conditions, including urban streets and suburban areas, to thoroughly assess your skills. You can find more information about booking your practical test on the official GOV.UK website: Find a driving test centre.
Before you can take your practical test, you’ll need to pass your theory test. The Oldham Theory Test Centre is conveniently located in Southlink Business Park, just outside of town. It’s easily accessible by car, bus, or tram, making it a convenient option for learners across Greater Manchester. You can book your theory test and find more details on the GOV.UK website: Find a theory test centre.
Choosing Rated Driving for your lessons in Oldham means you’ll benefit from instructors who understand the local area inside out, providing you with the best possible preparation for your test and a lifetime of safe driving. Our tailored lessons and focus on individual progress ensure you’ll become a confident and responsible driver in Oldham.
Ready to embark on your driving journey in Oldham? Take the first step towards gaining your independence and book your driving lessons with Rated Driving today.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Oldham
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 Oldham for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Oldham, public transport offers excellent connectivity. From central Manchester, the Metrolink tram service on the Oldham and Rochdale Line is your best bet, with frequent trams from Manchester Victoria directly to Oldham King Street or Oldham Mumps, taking around 25-30 minutes. If you’re coming from Bolton, take a train to Manchester Victoria, then switch to the Metrolink tram for Oldham. From Rochdale, the Metrolink also provides direct services to Oldham.
To avoid peak hour congestion on trams, generally travel between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM on weekdays, or anytime on weekends. Weekday peak times are typically 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. You can book train tickets via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
Getting to Oldham for your driving lessons is straightforward with excellent bus connections from surrounding areas. From Rochdale, the frequent 409 service will take you directly to Oldham town centre. If you’re travelling from Ashton-under-Lyne, the 409 also provides a direct link to Oldham. For those in Saddleworth villages like Uppermill or Delph, the 350 bus offers a scenic route into Oldham. Residents of Shaw and Crompton can easily reach Oldham via the 408 or 409 services. From Royton, the 409 and 427 are your best bets for reaching Oldham. Chadderton is well-served by numerous routes, including the 57, 59, 76, 81, 82, 83, 181, 182, and 409, all heading into Oldham. Failsworth residents can take the 76 or 180 to Oldham.
The best times to travel to Oldham are generally mid-morning (after 9:30 AM) and early afternoon (before 3:00 PM) to avoid peak hour congestion. Try to steer clear of the 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM weekday rush hours, as roads into Oldham can become very busy. For bus tickets, you can purchase them directly from the driver, or consider using the TfGM app for mobile tickets. You can also explore options on Arriva UK Bus or Stagecoach Bus.
Fun Fact About Oldham
Oldham, a town in Greater Manchester, transformed from a Pennine hamlet into the world’s cotton-spinning capital in the 19th century. At its peak, it boasted over 360 mills operating day and night. A fun fact: the world’s first tubular bandage was invented in Oldham in 1961. Learn more about Oldham.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Oldham. 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 Oldham driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Oldham 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 Oldham’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 Oldham?
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 Oldham’s roads inside out - so you can learn faster and pass with confidence.
- Local Experts, Ready to Go:
Over 48 DVSA-registered driving instructors across Greater-manchester including Oldham, Greater Manchester, Lostock & Harwood.
- 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 Oldham? 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
Oldham 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 Oldham
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Oldham who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Oldham
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Oldham who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Oldham
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Oldham ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Oldham.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Oldham today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover Near Oldham, Greater-manchester
Are you looking for the top driving lessons in nearby locations? Rated Driving also offers driving lessons in nearby areas, including:
Driving lessons in Oldham FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions like in Oldham?
Oldham offers a diverse range of driving conditions, from the bustling town centre with its many roundabouts and dual carriageways, such as those around Oldham Mumps, to quieter residential streets in areas like Chadderton, Royton, and Lees. Our local instructors are highly familiar with these varied roads, ensuring you gain confidence in all scenarios.
Which driving test centres are near Oldham?
The primary driving test centre for learners in Oldham is the Chadderton Test Centre, located at Broadway Business Park. Other nearby test centres in Greater Manchester include Rochdale, Cheetham Hill, and Sale.
How do I book driving lessons in Oldham with Rated Driving?
Booking driving lessons with Rated Driving in Oldham is straightforward. You can easily book online through our website or by calling us. We offer flexible scheduling to fit your availability, and there’s no deposit or upfront cost for standard lessons.
What advice do you have for beginner drivers in Oldham?
For beginners in Oldham, we recommend starting in quieter residential areas to master basic car control before progressing to busier roads. Our instructors will guide you through various situations, including navigating the challenging roundabouts and dual carriageways in the town centre, helping you build confidence at your own pace.
What are Rated Driving’s policies on refunds, instructor changes, and lesson payments in Oldham?
Rated Driving offers a 100% Money Back Guarantee for your first lesson if you’re not satisfied, provided you contact us within 24 hours. For cancellations or rescheduling, a minimum of 48 hours’ notice directly to your instructor is required to avoid forfeiting the lesson. While instructor changes are generally not possible once allocated, we will endeavour to rebook with a new instructor if a material issue arises.
Can I save money by booking driving lessons in bulk with Rated Driving in Oldham?
Yes, with Rated Driving, you can save up to £110 by purchasing your driving lessons in bulk. This offers a cost-effective way to complete your lessons compared to paying for individual sessions, though pay-as-you-go options are also available.
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].
