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Driving Lessons in Basingstoke
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Basingstoke instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Basingstoke 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.
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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 Basingstoke 🙏
See why our learners in Basingstoke love Rated Driving ♥️
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Passed First Time in Basingstoke – Thanks to Rated Driving!
Rated Driving in Basingstoke made learning to drive a breeze. The instructor helped me stay calm and focused, and I passed first time. Great service!
Leo I
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Friendly and Professional Instructors in Basingstoke
From the first lesson in Basingstoke, I knew I was in good hands. My instructor was so helpful and gave me all the tools to succeed. I passed first time!
Liam J
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My Experience Learning to Drive in Basingstoke
Rated Driving in Basingstoke made learning to drive a breeze. The instructor helped me stay calm and focused, and I passed first time. Great service!
Freya L
Learning to drive in Basingstoke
Basingstoke 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 Basingstoke, so you’ll know what to expect and how to handle each section without second guessing.
Learning to drive in Basingstoke offers a unique and comprehensive experience, perfectly preparing you for a lifetime of safe and confident driving. With its diverse road network and convenient location, Basingstoke provides an ideal environment for learners of all levels. Rated Driving is here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring your journey to a full UK driving licence is smooth and successful.
One of the key benefits of taking driving lessons in Basingstoke is the variety of local driving conditions you’ll encounter. From the quieter residential streets in areas like Popley and Oakridge, perfect for mastering basic manoeuvres and building initial confidence, to the busier main roads such as the A339 and A30, which will challenge you with higher speeds and more complex traffic flows, Basingstoke has it all. You’ll also gain invaluable experience navigating Basingstoke’s numerous roundabouts, including the often-discussed Black Dam Roundabout, known for its multiple lanes and demanding careful lane discipline. Practising on these varied roads with a local instructor from Rated Driving means you’ll be well-prepared for any situation the road throws at you, not just in Basingstoke but anywhere you choose to drive.
Beyond the practicalities of learning, Basingstoke is a vibrant town with plenty to explore. After a productive driving lesson, you could unwind with some retail therapy at Festival Place Shopping Centre, home to a wide array of shops and eateries. For a dose of local history, consider a visit to Basing House, a significant historical site with ties to the English Civil War, or step back in time at the Milestones Museum, a living history museum showcasing Victorian and 1930s Hampshire. If you’re looking for some active leisure, Basingstoke Leisure Park offers activities like ice skating, bowling, and swimming. These local attractions not only make Basingstoke an appealing place to learn but also provide excellent opportunities to practice independent driving once you’ve passed your test.
When it comes to the practical driving test, the Basingstoke Driving Test Centre is conveniently located at Brighton Hill Centre, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG22 4LR. This centre offers a mix of urban and rural driving experiences, ensuring a thorough assessment of your skills. Your Rated Driving instructor will be intimately familiar with the test routes used in Basingstoke, providing you with targeted practice on key roads like Roman Road and Winchester Road, which are known for their varying speed limits and potential challenges.
Before you can book your practical test in Basingstoke, you’ll need to pass your theory test. While Basingstoke itself no longer has a dedicated theory test centre, the nearest one is the Reading Theory Test Centre. You can find more information and book your theory test via the official GOV.UK website: Find a theory test centre and Book your theory test.
Choosing Rated Driving for your lessons in Basingstoke means you’re opting for expert instruction tailored to the local area. Our instructors are dedicated to helping you become a confident and safe driver, ready to navigate the roads of Basingstoke and beyond. Don’t delay your journey to driving independence. Take the wheel and book your driving lessons in Basingstoke with Rated Driving today.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Basingstoke
Winchester Driving Test Centre
Christchurch Road, Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 9SY
Newbury (Hambridge Lane) Driving Test Centre
Hambridge Lane, Newbury, Berkshire, RG14 5TZ
Reading Driving Test Centre
220 Elgar Road South, Reading, Berkshire, RG2 0BW
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 Basingstoke for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Basingstoke, public transport is efficient. From Winchester, direct South Western Railway services frequently reach Basingstoke in about 15-20 minutes. Andover also offers direct South Western Railway trains to Basingstoke, with journeys typically taking around 17-22 minutes. If you’re coming from Reading, Great Western Railway (GWR) and CrossCountry provide direct services to Basingstoke, with travel times as short as 16-23 minutes.
To secure the best fares for your Basingstoke journey, book in advance. Aim for Off-Peak travel, generally after 9:30 AM on weekdays and anytime on weekends and bank holidays, to avoid busier commuter periods. Peak hours, typically 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on weekdays, will be more expensive and crowded. You can book your train tickets to Basingstoke via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Basingstoke, public transport offers convenient access from surrounding areas. Stagecoach is the primary bus operator for Basingstoke, with numerous routes connecting nearby towns and villages to Basingstoke Bus Station, located at Festival Place.
From Andover, the Stagecoach Route 76 provides a direct service to Basingstoke, stopping at locations like Whitchurch and Oakley. If you’re travelling from Chineham, Stagecoach routes like the 4 and 7 will take you directly into Basingstoke town centre. For those in Old Basing, the Stagecoach 10 service connects to Basingstoke.
To avoid peak traffic, aim to travel outside of typical rush hours, generally before 7 AM and after 9 AM in the morning, and before 4 PM or after 6 PM in the evening on weekdays. Basingstoke’s bus station is a central hub, making connections straightforward.
For bus tickets, you can purchase them directly from the bus driver using contactless payment. Alternatively, explore options on the Stagecoach website or consider a PlusBus ticket if you’re also travelling by train, which offers unlimited bus travel within Basingstoke.
Fun Fact About Basingstoke
Basingstoke, recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, has held a regular Wednesday market since 1214. During the English Civil War, St. Michael’s Church was damaged while being used as an explosives store. A fun fact: Thomas Hardy referred to Basingstoke as “Stoke Barehills” in his novel *Jude the Obscure*. Learn more about Basingstoke.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Basingstoke. 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 Basingstoke driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Basingstoke 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 Basingstoke’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 Basingstoke?
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 Basingstoke’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 Basingstoke, Shanklin, Sandown & Lee-on-the-Solent.
- 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 Basingstoke? 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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Start studying now, Download today.
1600+ DVSA-Registered Driving Instructors
Excellent Learner Driver Reviews
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WHAT CAN I GET
Basingstoke 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 Basingstoke
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Basingstoke who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Basingstoke
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Basingstoke who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Basingstoke
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Basingstoke ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Basingstoke.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Basingstoke today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover Near Basingstoke, Hampshire
Are you looking for the top driving lessons in nearby locations? Rated Driving also offers driving lessons in nearby areas, including:
Driving lessons in Basingstoke FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions like in Basingstoke for learners?
Basingstoke offers a diverse range of driving conditions, ideal for learners. You’ll experience urban driving with one-way streets, various roundabouts like the Black Dam Roundabout, and pedestrian areas in the town centre. Additionally, your lessons will cover rural roads on the outskirts, which can be winding and have varying speed limits, preparing you for all scenarios.
Where is the local driving test centre in Basingstoke, and what should I know about it?
The Basingstoke Driving Test Centre is conveniently located at Brighton Hill Centre, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG22 4LR. It’s situated about ten minutes from the town centre, near a large ASDA supermarket. The centre offers a mix of urban and rural routes, including complex roundabouts and country lanes, and has a pass rate around the national average.
How can I book driving lessons in Basingstoke with Rated Driving?
Booking driving lessons with Rated Driving in Basingstoke is straightforward. You can book online 24/7 via the Rated Driving website or by calling 0330 0439896. Rated Driving aims to connect you with a local, DVSA-registered instructor in Basingstoke quickly, often within two hours of booking.
What payment options are available for driving lessons in Basingstoke with Rated Driving?
Rated Driving offers flexible payment options for your driving lessons in Basingstoke. You can choose to pay as you go, or save up to £110 by purchasing lessons in bulk. There is no deposit or upfront cost required for standard driving lessons, and all payments are securely processed through the Rated Driving app.
What is Rated Driving’s policy on changing my driving instructor in Basingstoke?
Rated Driving understands the importance of a good rapport with your instructor. If you find your assigned instructor isn’t a perfect fit, you can easily request a different one through the Rated Driving app. This ensures you have a comfortable and effective learning experience.
What is Rated Driving’s refund and cancellation policy for lessons in Basingstoke?
Rated Driving offers a “100% Money Back Guarantee” covering the first hour of your initial driving lesson if you’re not satisfied, provided you contact them within 24 hours. For subsequent lessons, a standard 48-hour notice is typically required to cancel or rearrange directly with your instructor to avoid forfeiture of the lesson without a refund.
What advice do you have for beginner drivers in Basingstoke?
For beginner drivers in Basingstoke, it’s crucial to familiarise yourself with both urban and rural road conditions. Practice navigating roundabouts, such as those on Winchester Road, and be aware of varying speed limits. Consider practicing in quieter areas like the Viables Industrial Estate or Chineham Business Park on weekends to build confidence.
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].
