Rated 'Excellent' on Trustpilot
Driving Lessons in Salford
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Salford instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Salford 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 Salford 🙏
See why our learners in Salford love Rated Driving ♥️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Passed First Time in Salford – Thanks to Rated Driving!
From the first lesson in Salford, I knew I was in good hands. My instructor was so helpful and gave me all the tools to succeed. I passed first time!
Noah G
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Confident Behind the Wheel in Salford
Rated Driving in Salford made learning to drive a breeze. The instructor helped me stay calm and focused, and I passed first time. Great service!
Isla Q
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Unforgettable Driving Journey in Salford
Learning to drive in Salford with Rated Driving was the best decision. I felt safe and supported throughout. Highly recommend them to anyone wanting to pass with confidence!
Ethan E
Learning to drive in Salford
Salford 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 Salford, so you’ll know what to expect and how to handle each section without second guessing.
Learning to drive in Salford offers a unique and advantageous experience for aspiring motorists. This vibrant city, nestled in Greater Manchester, provides a diverse range of driving conditions that are ideal for developing comprehensive driving skills. With Rated Driving, you’ll benefit from instructors who possess in-depth local knowledge, ensuring your lessons are tailored to the specific challenges and nuances of driving in Salford.
One of the key benefits of taking driving lessons in Salford is the sheer variety of roads you’ll encounter. From the quieter residential streets in areas like Ordsall and Pendleton, perfect for mastering basic car control and manoeuvres, to the busier urban roads and complex junctions around Chapel Street and Salford Quays, you’ll gain invaluable experience in a multitude of scenarios. Your Rated Driving instructor will guide you through these varied environments, building your confidence gradually. You’ll practice navigating challenging roundabouts, such as those near Salford University, and get accustomed to dual carriageways, preparing you for all aspects of the practical driving test.
Beyond the practicalities of learning, Salford offers a wealth of attractions that can make your driving journey even more enjoyable. Imagine taking a break from your lessons and exploring the modern architecture and vibrant atmosphere of MediaCityUK, home to major media organisations and a bustling shopping centre. Or perhaps you’d prefer to step back in time with a visit to Ordsall Hall, a stunning Grade I listed Tudor manor house with over 750 years of history. For a dose of culture, the Salford Museum and Art Gallery, located in Peel Park, offers a fascinating insight into Salford’s past and a collection of Victorian art. Peel Park itself, the first public park in the UK funded by public subscription, provides a tranquil green space for relaxation after a focused driving session. These local landmarks not only add to the appeal of Salford but also provide excellent real-world contexts for your driving practice.
When it comes to taking your practical driving test, while there isn’t a dedicated practical driving test centre directly within Salford, learners in the area typically use nearby centres such as Cheetham Hill and Sale. Your Rated Driving instructor will be familiar with the common test routes from these centres, helping you to practice specific manoeuvres and road conditions you’re likely to encounter on your test day. For your theory test, the Salford Theory Test Centre was previously located in Salford Quays, near the waterside. However, it has since been withdrawn, and learners in Salford now typically attend the Manchester Theory Test Centre. You can find more information and book your theory test via the general GOV.UK theory test centre finder page: Find a theory test centre.
Choosing Rated Driving for your lessons in Salford means opting for a comprehensive and supportive learning experience. Our instructors are dedicated to helping you become a confident and safe driver, equipped to handle the diverse roads of Salford and beyond. With flexible lesson plans and a focus on your individual needs, we’re committed to helping you achieve your driving goals.
Ready to get on the road in Salford? Book your driving lessons with Rated Driving today and start your journey towards driving independence.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Salford
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 Salford for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Salford for lessons, public transport offers excellent connectivity. From Bolton, direct Northern services frequently reach Salford Crescent in about 10-15 minutes. Similarly, Northern trains from Rochdale provide direct routes to Salford Crescent, taking around 20-30 minutes. If you’re coming from Wigan, Northern Trains Limited operates direct services to Salford Crescent, with journeys typically lasting 30-40 minutes. From Ashton-under-Lyne, direct Northern trains arrive at Salford Crescent in approximately 16-20 minutes. For those travelling from Stockport, direct trains to Salford aren’t always available, but services to Manchester Piccadilly are frequent (around 10 minutes), from where you can easily connect to Salford. Altrincham requires at least one change to reach Salford, with journeys taking around 50 minutes to over an hour.
To ensure a smooth journey to Salford, aim for Off-Peak travel, generally outside weekday rush hours (before 7:00 AM, between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, and after 7:00 PM). Weekends are typically Off-Peak all day. Avoid peak times, usually 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on weekdays, as trains to Salford will be busier and fares potentially higher. You can book train tickets via Trainline or Northern Rail.
Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Salford, public transport offers excellent connectivity. From Bolton, the V1 or 36 bus services regularly travel to Salford, taking around 40 minutes. Alternatively, the 8 bus from Bolton Interchange also reaches Salford. If you’re coming from Bury, the 95 bus directly serves Salford Shopping Centre, with a journey time of approximately 51 minutes. From Walkden, direct buses depart from Walkden Road, arriving at Pendleton Church or Salford Crescent Rail Station in about 14-18 minutes. The 38 bus also connects Walkden to Salford.
For those in Monton, the 35 bus from Hawthorn Avenue offers a direct route to Salford, taking around 15 minutes. From Worsley, the 35 bus from Granary Lane directly reaches Salford in approximately 24 minutes. Cadishead is served by the 67 bus from Cadishead Library, reaching Salford in about 44 minutes. Little Hulton has the 38 bus from Smith Fold Lane to Salford Shopping Centre, taking around 47 minutes, and the 20, 36, and X39 services also connect to Little Hulton. Boothstown is connected to Salford by the 35 bus from Longwall Avenue, with a journey time of about 17 minutes.
For optimal travel to Salford, aim for off-peak hours, generally avoiding weekday mornings (7 AM – 10 AM) and evenings (4 PM – 7 PM) when traffic is heaviest. You can purchase bus tickets directly from the driver (contactless payments are available) or via the Stagecoach Bus App for day tickets. For more options and to plan your journey to Salford, visit Bee Network or Stagecoach Bus.
Fun Fact About Salford
Salford, historically part of Lancashire, gained city status in 1926. It was once a major textile hub and inland port after the 1894 opening of Salford Docks. Fun fact: Ordsall Hall, a historic manor house, is considered one of the most haunted buildings in the North West! Learn more about Salford.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Salford. 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 Salford driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Salford 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 Salford’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 Salford?
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 Salford’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 Salford, Wigan, Oldham & Bolton.
- 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 Salford? 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
Salford 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 Salford
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Salford who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Salford
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Salford who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Salford
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Salford ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Salford.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Salford today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover Near Salford, 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 Salford FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions like in Salford?
Salford offers a diverse environment for learning to drive, with a mix of bustling urban roads, quieter residential streets, and complex junctions. You’ll gain experience navigating areas like Salford Quays with its busy traffic systems, as well as practicing manoeuvres in more subdued residential zones such as Weaste or Pendleton. Our instructors are highly familiar with these local conditions, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your test and everyday driving.
Which driving test centres are near Salford?
Salford is conveniently located near several DVSA driving test centres. The Salford (Fire Station) Test Centre is a primary option, though it has seen temporary closures. Other nearby test centres frequently used by learners in the area include Cheetham Hill, Sale, and West Didsbury. Our local instructors are well-versed in the routes and common challenges associated with these centres.
How do I book driving lessons in Salford with Rated Driving?
Booking driving lessons in Salford with Rated Driving is straightforward. You can easily book online through our website, http://www.rateddriving.com, or by calling us directly. We offer flexible scheduling, allowing you to choose lesson times that suit your lifestyle, including early mornings, evenings, or weekends.
What advice do you have for beginner drivers in Salford?
For beginner drivers in Salford, our instructors typically start lessons in quieter residential areas to build confidence with basic vehicle control before progressing to busier roads. You’ll gradually tackle more complex scenarios, such as navigating roundabouts and dual carriageways like the A5063 or the Regent Road gyratory. Our tailored lessons ensure you develop safe driving habits and are fully prepared for the diverse road conditions in Salford.
What is Rated Driving’s refund policy for lessons in Salford?
Rated Driving offers a “100% Money Back Guarantee” covering the first hour of your initial driving lesson if you’re not satisfied; simply contact us within 24 hours for a full refund. For subsequent lessons, refunds for payments made within the last 30 days are processed according to the agreed hours and value between you and your instructor. Please note that if lessons are not taken within 60 days of purchase, remaining credits may be nullified.
Can I change my driving instructor with Rated Driving in Salford?
While it’s generally not possible to change instructors once allocated unless there’s a material issue, Rated Driving aims to ensure you have a positive learning experience. If a material issue is identified, we will do our best to connect you with a replacement instructor. We understand the importance of a good rapport, and our goal is to match you with a DVSA-registered instructor who suits your learning style.
How can I pay for my driving lessons in Salford with Rated Driving?
Rated Driving offers flexible payment options for your driving lessons in Salford. You can choose pay-as-you-go lessons, with rates varying by postcode, or opt for our block booking packages to save up to £110. There is no deposit or upfront cost required for standard driving lessons, making it easier to start your learning journey.
Do Rated Driving offer automatic driving lessons in Salford?
Yes, Rated Driving provides both manual and automatic driving lessons in Salford. Automatic lessons can be an excellent choice if you’re looking to learn and pass quickly, or if you prefer a simpler driving experience without clutch control. Simply let us know your preference when booking, and we’ll match you with a suitable, approved instructor in Salford.
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].
