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Driving Lessons in Fair Oak
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Fair Oak instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Fair Oak 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 Fair Oak 🙏
See why our learners in Fair Oak love Rated Driving ♥️
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Stress-Free Driving Lessons in Fair Oak
My experience with Rated Driving in Fair Oak was incredible. The lessons were structured, and my instructor made learning fun. I passed on my first try!
Jake L
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Why I Recommend Driving Lessons in Fair Oak
Learning to drive in Fair Oak with Rated Driving was the best decision. I felt safe and supported throughout. Highly recommend them to anyone wanting to pass with confidence!
Liam S
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Passed First Time in Fair Oak – Thanks to Rated Driving!
Learning to drive in Fair Oak with Rated Driving was the best decision. I felt safe and supported throughout. Highly recommend them to anyone wanting to pass with confidence!
Noah V
Learning to drive in Fair Oak
Fair Oak 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 Fair Oak, 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, Fair Oak offers an ideal environment to gain confidence behind the wheel. With its blend of quieter residential streets and access to busier routes, Fair Oak provides a comprehensive learning experience. Rated Driving, a leading provider of driving lessons, has a strong presence in Fair Oak, offering tailored manual and automatic lessons with experienced local instructors who are familiar with the area’s unique driving conditions.
Taking driving lessons in Fair Oak comes with numerous benefits. The village’s layout allows for a gradual progression in skill. You can start by mastering the basics on quieter roads like those around Pembers Hill Park or the residential areas off Botley Road, perfecting your manoeuvres and building initial confidence. As you progress, your Rated Driving instructor will guide you onto more challenging routes. This might include navigating the main thoroughfares such as Fair Oak Road and Winchester Road, which connect Fair Oak to larger towns, helping you to build confidence in town centre navigation and handling varied traffic conditions. You’ll also gain valuable experience on dual carriageways, preparing you for higher-speed driving.
Fair Oak isn’t just about the roads; it’s a vibrant community with local attractions that can even enhance your learning experience. Imagine practicing your parallel parking near the bustling village centre, or perfecting your clutch control on the gentle inclines leading towards Stoke Park Wood. After a productive lesson, you could unwind with a stroll through Itchen Valley Country Park, a beautiful green oasis perfect for relaxing and reflecting on your progress. The village also boasts traditional pubs like The New Clock Inn and The Fox and Hounds, offering a chance to relax after your lesson.
When it comes to the practical driving test, while Fair Oak itself doesn’t have a test centre, learners typically take their test at the Eastleigh Driving Test Centre, located in the nearby town of Eastleigh. Your Rated Driving instructor will ensure you are well-prepared for the routes commonly used in this area. For your theory test, the nearest centre is the Southampton Theory Test Centre, situated in Anglo City House on Shirley Road in Southampton. This centre is conveniently accessible, and your instructor can help you understand the best ways to get there.
The local expertise of Rated Driving instructors in Fair Oak is a significant advantage. They know the roads, the potential challenges, and the best spots for different types of practice, ensuring your lessons are efficient and effective. This hyperlocal approach means you’re not just learning to drive, but learning to drive confidently in and around Fair Oak.
Ready to embark on your driving journey in Fair Oak? With Rated Driving, you’ll receive expert tuition tailored to your needs, helping you become a safe and confident driver. Book your driving lessons in Fair Oak today and take the first step towards gaining your independence on the road.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Fair Oak
Southampton (Maybush)
Green Lane, Maybush, Southampton, Hampshire, SO16 9FP
Winchester
Christchurch Road, Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 9SY
Southampton (Forest Hills)
Forest Hills Drive, Southampton, Hampshire, SO18 2FY
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 Fair Oak for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
To reach Fair Oak for your driving lessons, public transport is readily available from surrounding areas. Fair Oak does not have its own train station. The nearest train stations are Southampton Central and Southampton Airport Parkway, both served by South Western Railway. From Southampton Central, you can take the Bluestar bus service 2 directly to Fair Oak, with the journey taking approximately 57 minutes. Alternatively, from Southampton Airport Parkway, the Bluestar line 3 bus offers a direct service to Fair Oak, taking around 37 minutes. If you’re coming from Eastleigh, the Bluestar line 2 bus provides a direct route to Fair Oak in about 14-16 minutes.
For optimal travel to Fair Oak, aim for off-peak bus times, typically outside of weekday rush hours (7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM). Services are generally frequent throughout the day, with buses running every 15-30 minutes. You can plan your journey and book train tickets via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
To reach Fair Oak for your driving lessons, several bus services connect from nearby towns and villages. From Eastleigh, the Bluestar 2 service offers a direct route to Fair Oak, stopping at locations like Chickenhall Lane and arriving at New Clock Inn or The Square in Fair Oak. The journey typically takes around 14-16 minutes. Additionally, Xelabus operates the 502 route from Eastleigh Bus Station to Wyvern School Stop in Fair Oak on weekdays, departing once a day at 07:15.
If you’re travelling from Winchester, the Stagecoach South 69 bus provides a direct connection to Fair Oak, with stops including Jewry Street and Shorts Road. This route takes approximately 30-34 minutes. For those coming from Botley, the Bluestar 3 bus offers a direct service to Fair Oak, with the journey lasting about 17-19 minutes. The Bluestar 3 also connects Southampton, Hedge End, and Boorley Green to Fair Oak.
To avoid potential delays, it’s advisable to travel outside of typical peak hours, generally before 7 AM and after 9 AM, and then again before 4 PM and after 6 PM on weekdays. You can purchase bus tickets directly from the bus operators or explore options on Trainline or Arriva UK Bus.
Fun Fact About Fair Oak
Fair Oak, Hampshire, gets its name from a historic oak tree in the village square where an annual fair was held until 1918. A fun fact: the first stall holder at the fair would claim the key to the fair from the George Inn and receive a flagon of ale at day’s end for returning it! Learn more about Fair Oak.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Fair Oak. 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 Fair Oak driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Fair Oak 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 Fair Oak’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 Fair Oak?
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 Fair Oak’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 Fair Oak, Bishop’s Waltham, Lymington & Havant.
- 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 Fair Oak? 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
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WHAT CAN I GET
Fair Oak 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 Fair Oak
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Fair Oak who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Fair Oak
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Fair Oak who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Fair Oak
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Fair Oak ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Fair Oak.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Fair Oak today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover Near Fair-oak, 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 Fair Oak FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions like in Fair Oak?
Fair Oak, a large village east of Eastleigh in Hampshire, offers a mix of driving environments. You’ll encounter residential roads within the village, as well as rural routes leading towards areas like Horton Heath and Crowdhill. This variety provides excellent practice for different road types and traffic scenarios.
Where is the nearest driving test centre to Fair Oak?
While Fair Oak itself doesn’t have a dedicated driving test centre, the closest DVSA driving test centres would typically be found in nearby larger towns such as Eastleigh or Southampton. Your Rated Driving instructor will be familiar with the local test routes and can help you prepare for your test in these areas.
How do I book driving lessons in Fair Oak with Rated Driving?
Booking driving lessons in Fair Oak with Rated Driving is straightforward. Simply visit our website, http://www.rateddriving.com, and use our online booking system. We offer flexible scheduling and can match you with a local DVSA-registered instructor in the Fair Oak area.
What advice do you have for beginner drivers in Fair Oak?
For beginners in Fair Oak, we recommend starting on quieter residential streets to build confidence before progressing to busier roads. Your Rated Driving instructor will guide you through various local conditions, including navigating around landmarks like Stoke Park Wood or the village centre, ensuring you gain comprehensive experience.
What are Rated Driving’s policies on refunds, instructor changes, or lesson payments in Fair Oak?
Rated Driving offers transparent policies for our Fair Oak learners. We provide flexible pay-as-you-go options, and you can save up to £110 by purchasing lessons in bulk. There is no deposit or upfront cost required for standard driving lessons. For details on refunds or changing instructors, please refer to the terms and conditions on our website, http://www.rateddriving.com.
Can I take an intensive driving course in Fair Oak with Rated Driving?
Yes, Rated Driving offers intensive driving courses in Fair Oak for those looking to pass their test quickly. These courses are tailored to your needs and can help you gain confidence rapidly on local roads, preparing you for the driving test in a shorter timeframe. Visit http://www.rateddriving.com for more information and to discuss your options.
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].
