Rated 'Excellent' on Trustpilot
Driving Lessons in Eastleigh
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Eastleigh instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Eastleigh 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 Eastleigh 🙏
See why our learners in Eastleigh love Rated Driving ♥️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why I Recommend Driving Lessons in Eastleigh
Rated Driving in Eastleigh made learning to drive a breeze. The instructor helped me stay calm and focused, and I passed first time. Great service!
Leo N
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Passed First Time in Eastleigh – Thanks to Rated Driving!
From the first lesson in Eastleigh, I knew I was in good hands. My instructor was so helpful and gave me all the tools to succeed. I passed first time!
Ethan D
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Stress-Free Driving Lessons in Eastleigh
From the first lesson in Eastleigh, I knew I was in good hands. My instructor was so helpful and gave me all the tools to succeed. I passed first time!
Isla S
Learning to drive in Eastleigh
Eastleigh 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 Eastleigh, 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 Hampshire, Eastleigh offers an ideal environment to gain confidence and master the skills needed to pass your driving test. With its diverse road network and convenient accessibility, Eastleigh provides a fantastic setting for learner drivers.
Rated Driving is a trusted provider of driving lessons in Eastleigh, offering expert instruction tailored to individual needs. Their local instructors are intimately familiar with Eastleigh’s roads, ensuring you receive comprehensive training that prepares you for various driving scenarios. You’ll gain valuable experience navigating the town’s main arteries, such as the A335 Fair Oak Road and Leigh Road, which offer opportunities to practice higher-speed driving and lane discipline. For developing essential control and observation skills, quieter residential streets like those around the Boyatt Wood area or Chandler’s Ford provide a safe space to practice manoeuvres and build confidence. Eastleigh also features various roundabouts, including those near the Swan Shopping Centre, which are excellent for honing your judgment and signaling.
Beyond the practicalities of learning to drive, Eastleigh boasts a welcoming atmosphere and several attractions that make it an appealing place to spend time. After a productive driving lesson, you could unwind with a stroll through the scenic Itchen Valley Country Park, a beautiful green space perfect for relaxing and observing nature. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the town’s rich railway heritage at the Eastleigh Museum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into Eastleigh’s past as a railway town. For a unique experience, take a ride on the miniature steam railway at Lakeside Country Park, a delightful way to enjoy the outdoors. The town also offers cultural experiences at The Point Theatre, a renowned arts venue showcasing a variety of performances.
When it comes to taking your practical driving test, the nearest test centres to Eastleigh are located in Southampton. These include the Southampton (Forest Hills) Driving Test Centre on Forest Hills Drive and the Southampton (Maybush) Driving Test Centre on Green Lane. While Eastleigh itself doesn’t have a practical test centre, your Rated Driving instructor will ensure you are well-prepared for the specific routes and conditions you might encounter at these nearby locations. You can find more information about booking your practical test on the official GOV.UK website. Book your driving test.
For your theory test, the nearest theory test centre to Eastleigh is in Southampton. Other convenient options include Fareham and Portsmouth. Rated Driving can also assist you with preparing for your theory test, ensuring you have all the knowledge required before you even get behind the wheel. You can find details about theory test centres and booking your test on the GOV.UK website. Find a theory test centre.
Choosing to learn to drive in Eastleigh with Rated Driving means you’ll benefit from expert local knowledge, a diverse range of roads for practice, and the convenience of a well-connected town. The blend of urban and quieter roads in Eastleigh provides an excellent foundation for becoming a confident and safe driver.
Ready to embark on your driving journey in Eastleigh? Don’t delay your independence any longer. Contact Rated Driving today to book your first lesson and take the exciting step towards gaining your driving licence in Eastleigh.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Eastleigh
Southampton (Forest Hills)
Forest Hills Drive, Southampton, Hampshire, SO18 2FY
Winchester
Christchurch Road, Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 9SY
Southampton (Maybush)
Green Lane, Maybush, Southampton, Hampshire, SO16 9FP
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 Eastleigh for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Eastleigh, convenient train connections make reaching your lessons straightforward. If you’re coming from Winchester, direct South Western Railway services run frequently to Eastleigh, taking around 8-9 minutes. From Romsey, South Western Railway and Great Western Railway (GWR) offer direct trains to Eastleigh, with journeys typically lasting about 12-13 minutes. Travellers from Fareham can also take direct South Western Railway services to Eastleigh, which usually take around 18 minutes. From Southampton Central, South Western Railway provides direct trains to Eastleigh in approximately 14 minutes.
To ensure a smooth journey to Eastleigh, aim for Off-Peak travel. Generally, Off-Peak hours are weekdays from 09:30 to 16:00 and after 19:00, and all day on weekends and bank holidays. Avoid Peak times, typically Monday to Friday between 06:30 and 09:30, and 16:00 and 19:00, as trains to Eastleigh will be busier and fares higher. You can book your train tickets for Eastleigh via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Eastleigh, public transport offers convenient access. From Southampton, the Bluestar 2 and Unilink services provide direct routes to Eastleigh Bus Station, with journeys taking around 25-35 minutes. The Bluestar 3 also connects Southampton to Eastleigh via Hedge End and Fair Oak. If you’re coming from Romsey, the Bluestar 5 bus goes directly to Eastleigh. From Winchester, the Stagecoach South 61 service runs to Eastleigh. Xelabus also operates local services, including the 502 from Bishopstoke to Eastleigh.
To avoid traffic, especially on routes into Eastleigh, aim to travel outside of typical peak hours, generally before 7 AM or after 9 AM, and avoid the evening rush between 4 PM and 6 PM. For bus tickets, you can often purchase them directly from the bus operator or explore options on Bluestar or Xelabus websites.
Fun Fact About Eastleigh
Eastleigh, Hampshire, transformed from a small hamlet called “East Leah” (meaning “clearing in a forest”) in 932 AD into a bustling railway town. Its growth exploded with the London and South Western Railway’s carriage and locomotive works, established in 1891 and 1910 respectively. A fun fact: the town’s modern spelling, “Eastleigh,” was chosen by author Charlotte Yonge in 1868, who donated significantly to a new church. Learn more about Eastleigh.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Eastleigh. 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 Eastleigh driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Eastleigh 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 Eastleigh’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 Eastleigh?
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 Eastleigh’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 Eastleigh, Twyford, Otterbourne & Swanmore.
- 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 Eastleigh? 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
Eastleigh 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 Eastleigh
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Eastleigh who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Eastleigh
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Eastleigh who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Eastleigh
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Eastleigh ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Eastleigh.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Eastleigh today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover Near Eastleigh, 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 Eastleigh FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions like in Eastleigh?
Eastleigh offers a varied environment for learning to drive, including town centre navigation, residential streets for manoeuvres, and dual carriageways. You’ll gain experience on main roads and thoroughfares, as well as quieter areas to perfect your skills.
Where are the nearest driving test centres to Eastleigh?
While Eastleigh doesn’t have its own test centre, learners typically take their practical driving test in nearby Southampton, at either the Forest Hills or Maybush test centres. Winchester is also another potential option.
How do I book driving lessons in Eastleigh with Rated Driving?
Booking driving lessons with Rated Driving in Eastleigh is straightforward. You can book online anytime or call 0330 043 9896 to get started in as little as 10 minutes.
What advice do you have for beginner drivers in Eastleigh?
For beginners in Eastleigh, our instructors focus on building confidence in various road conditions, from navigating the town centre to practising manoeuvres in residential areas. They will also prepare you for dual carriageway driving, such as on the A335 or A27, which can be busy.
What is Rated Driving’s refund policy for lessons in Eastleigh?
Rated Driving offers a “100% Money Back Guarantee” for the first hour of your initial driving lesson if you’re not satisfied. For subsequent lessons, payments made within the last 30 days may be refunded based on agreed hours and total value, though after 30 days, no refund is due.
Can I change my driving instructor with Rated Driving in Eastleigh?
It is generally not possible to change instructors once allocated unless there is a material issue, as judged by Rated Driving. If a material issue is determined, Rated Driving will endeavour to connect you with a replacement instructor.
What payment options are available for driving lessons in Eastleigh?
Rated Driving offers flexible payment options, including pay-as-you-go lessons. There is no deposit or upfront cost required for standard driving lessons, and you can save up to £110 by purchasing lessons in bulk.
Are there any specific local challenges for learners in Eastleigh?
Learners in Eastleigh should be prepared for busy periods on main roads like the A335 and A27, which can experience traffic congestion. Additionally, navigating the numerous roundabouts in the area, including the M27 Junction 5 roundabout, can be challenging for new drivers.
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].
