Rated 'Excellent' on Trustpilot
Driving Lessons in Hampshire
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Hampshire instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Hampshire 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 Hampshire 🙏
See why our learners in Hampshire love Rated Driving ♥️
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Confident Behind the Wheel in Hampshire
I never thought I’d enjoy driving, but Rated Driving in Hampshire changed that. Great instructor, great tips, and a big confidence boost – I passed with ease!
Amelia T
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Friendly and Professional Instructors in Hampshire
My experience with Rated Driving in Hampshire was incredible. The lessons were structured, and my instructor made learning fun. I passed on my first try!
Grace P
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Unforgettable Driving Journey in Hampshire
I took my driving lessons with Rated Driving in Hampshire. 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!
Leo H
Learning to drive in Hampshire
Hampshire 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 Hampshire, so you’ll know what to expect and how to handle each section without second guessing.
Learning to drive in Hampshire offers a unique and advantageous experience, setting you up for success on the road. With Rated Driving, you’ll benefit from expert instruction tailored to the diverse driving conditions found across this beautiful county. Hampshire provides an ideal environment for learners, from bustling urban centres to serene rural routes, ensuring you gain comprehensive skills and confidence behind the wheel.
One of the key benefits of taking driving lessons in Hampshire is the sheer variety of roads you’ll encounter. Your Rated Driving instructor will guide you through the busy streets of Southampton, where you’ll master navigating complex junctions and multi-lane roundabouts. You’ll also gain invaluable experience on the A3 and M27, major arterial routes that traverse Hampshire, helping you become proficient in higher-speed driving and motorway etiquette. For quieter practice, residential areas in towns like Winchester or the scenic lanes of the New Forest offer excellent opportunities to hone your manoeuvres and develop your observational skills in a calmer setting. This blend of road types ensures you’re well-prepared for any driving scenario.
Beyond the practicalities of learning, Hampshire boasts a wealth of attractions that make the learning journey even more appealing. Imagine finishing a successful lesson and then being able to unwind at the historic Winchester Cathedral, exploring its magnificent architecture and serene grounds. Or perhaps you’d prefer to visit the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu, a fantastic destination for any aspiring driver, offering a glimpse into automotive history. For those who enjoy the outdoors, the vast and beautiful New Forest National Park provides a stunning backdrop for a post-lesson stroll, allowing you to clear your head and reflect on your progress. The iconic Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth also offers breathtaking views, a perfect reward after mastering parallel parking.
When it comes to taking your practical driving test in Hampshire, you have several convenient options. Popular practical driving test centres include Winchester Driving Test Centre on Christchurch Road, Southampton (Maybush) Driving Test Centre on Green Lane, and Portsmouth Driving Test Centre opposite Fort Southwick on James Callaghan Drive. Your Rated Driving instructor will be familiar with the local test routes, providing you with targeted practice to boost your chances of a first-time pass.
Before you can take your practical test, you’ll need to pass your theory test. Hampshire is well-served by theory test centres. You can find theory test centres in locations such as Basingstoke, Portsmouth, Southampton, Andover, and Fareham. For example, the Southampton Theory Test Centre is located on Shirley Road, and the Portsmouth Theory Test Centre is on Isambard Brunel Road. Your Rated Driving lessons will complement your theory studies, ensuring you have a strong understanding of both the practical and theoretical aspects of driving.
Choosing Rated Driving for your lessons in Hampshire means choosing a comprehensive and supportive learning experience. Our instructors are dedicated to helping you become a safe, confident, and independent driver, ready to explore all that Hampshire has to offer. Don’t delay your journey to driving freedom; take the first step today and book your driving lessons in Hampshire with Rated Driving.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Hampshire
Winchester Driving Test Centre
Christchurch Road, Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 9SY
Southampton (Maybush) Driving Test Centre
Green Lane, Maybush, Southampton, Hampshire, SO16 9FP
Portsmouth Driving Test Centre
Opposite Fort Southwick, James Callaghan Drive, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO17 6AR
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 Hampshire for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Hampshire for lessons, convenient train travel is key. From nearby towns, South Western Railway (SWR) is your primary service for reaching various Hampshire destinations. For instance, direct SWR services frequently connect Winchester, Bournemouth, and Portsmouth to Southampton Central, a major hub in Hampshire. If you’re coming from Salisbury, Great Western Railway (GWR) offers direct services into Southampton Central, providing another excellent route into Hampshire. CrossCountry trains also link Southampton to more distant cities like Oxford, Birmingham, and Manchester, expanding your options for reaching Hampshire.
To secure the best fares for your journey to Hampshire, booking train tickets in advance is highly recommended. Consider travelling during Off-Peak hours, which are generally outside Monday-Friday rush hours and all day on weekends. Peak times, typically 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on weekdays, can be significantly busier and more expensive. You can easily book your train tickets via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Hampshire for lessons, public transport offers excellent connectivity. From Winchester, the Bluestar 1 service provides a direct route into Southampton city centre, stopping at key points like Chandler’s Ford. This service runs frequently, about every 15-20 minutes daily. If you’re coming from Romsey, the Bluestar 4 bus offers direct travel to Southampton Central Station, with services every 30 minutes. For those in Totton, Bluestar routes 6, 8, 11, and 12 connect to Southampton, with the 11 specifically reaching Southampton City Centre from Totton College. Eastleigh is well-served by Bluestar and Unilink, with frequent buses to Southampton city centre. Xelabus also operates local services within Hampshire, including routes around Bitterne and Shirley, such as the X12 to Shirley Precinct.
To avoid traffic, aim for off-peak hours, generally outside of 7 AM – 10 AM and 4 PM – 7 PM on weekdays, especially on routes like Portswood Road in Southampton, where restrictions for general traffic were trialled during these times. You can purchase bus tickets directly from the bus operator or consider a PlusBus ticket when buying your train ticket for unlimited bus travel within Southampton. Explore bus ticket options on Trainline or Arriva UK Bus.
Fun Fact About Hampshire
Hampshire’s recorded history began with the Romans, and its name derives from “Hamtunscīr,” meaning “Hamtun’s shire” (modern-day Southampton). A fun fact: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle wrote the original Sherlock Holmes story, “A Study in Scarlet,” in Southsea, Hampshire. Learn more about Hampshire.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Hampshire. 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 Hampshire driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Hampshire 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 Hampshire’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 Hampshire?
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 Hampshire’s roads inside out - so you can learn faster and pass with confidence.
- Local Experts, Ready to Go:
Over 93 DVSA-registered driving instructors across Hampshire including Hampshire, Alton, New Alresford & Winchester.
- 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 Hampshire? 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?
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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
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- Theory test questions
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Start studying now, Download today.
1600+ DVSA-Registered Driving Instructors
Excellent Learner Driver Reviews
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WHAT CAN I GET
Hampshire 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 Hampshire
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Hampshire who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Hampshire
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Hampshire who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Hampshire
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Hampshire ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Hampshire.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Hampshire today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover In Hampshire
Are you looking for the top driving lessons in nearby locations? Rated Driving also offers driving lessons in nearby areas, including:
FarnboroughAldershotAbbotts-annHorndeanEmsworthHamble-le-riceRomseyHartley-wintneyTotton-and-elingWickhamLyndhurstFawleyMilford-on-seaFordingbridgeHedge-endOdihamBordonFleetTadleyBishops-walthamLymingtonHavantYateleyPetersfieldGosportAndoverBasingstokeAltonNew-alresfordWinchesterChristchurchBournemouthFarehamPortsmouthHayling-islandEastleighSouthamptonPokesdownWest-cliffEast-cliffCharminsterSouthbourneWestbourneWintonKinsonBoscombeGrayshottFour-marksBlackwaterAlverstokeWhiteleyTitchfieldStubbingtonPortchesterClanfieldDenmeadBembridgeVentnorShanklinSandownLee-on-the-solentMidhurstLiphookLissWaterloovilleSouthseaKings-worthyTwyfordOtterbourneSwanmoreWaltham-chaseBishopstokeFair-oakNorth-baddesleyWarsashBursledonWest-endBlackfieldDibden-purlieuBrockenhurstMarchwoodNetleyHytheChandlers-fordHook
Driving lessons in Hampshire FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions like in Hampshire?
Hampshire offers a diverse range of driving conditions, from the busy urban roads in cities like Southampton and Portsmouth to the more rural routes found in areas like the New Forest. You’ll gain experience navigating town centres, residential streets, and dual carriageways such as sections of the A34 and M3, which are crucial for building confidence in various traffic scenarios.
Which driving test centres are available in Hampshire?
Hampshire has several driving test centres where you can take your practical test. Popular options include Basingstoke, Farnborough, Lee-on-the-Solent, Portsmouth, Southampton (Forest Hills and Maybush), and Winchester. Your Rated Driving instructor will be familiar with the local test routes for these centres, helping you prepare effectively.
How do I book driving lessons in Hampshire with Rated Driving?
Booking driving lessons with Rated Driving in Hampshire is straightforward. You can easily book online or by calling us. We offer flexible scheduling and match you with a local DVSA-registered instructor who knows the Hampshire roads well.
What advice do you have for beginner drivers in Hampshire?
For beginners in Hampshire, our instructors focus on building foundational skills in quieter residential areas before progressing to busier roads. You’ll learn essential manoeuvres and gain confidence navigating various traffic conditions, including town centre navigation and dual carriageway experience. Rated Driving aims to help learners become test-ready within approximately 35 hours of professional tuition.
What is Rated Driving’s policy on refunds for driving lessons?
Rated Driving offers a “100% Money Back Guarantee” for the first hour of your initial driving lesson if you’re not satisfied; simply contact us within 24 hours. For subsequent lessons, refunds for pre-paid packages are generally available for funds remaining in your account within 30 days of payment, provided lessons haven’t started within 60 days of purchase.
Can I change my driving instructor with Rated Driving in Hampshire?
While Rated Driving endeavours to match you with a suitable instructor from the outset, it is possible to change instructors if there’s a material issue, as judged by Rated Driving. We aim to rebook you with a new instructor to ensure a positive learning experience.
What payment options are available for driving lessons in Hampshire?
Rated Driving offers flexible payment options for driving lessons in Hampshire, including pay-as-you-go rates. You can also save up to £110 by purchasing lessons in bulk. There is no deposit or upfront cost required for standard driving lessons, making it easier to start your learning journey.
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].
