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Driving Lessons in Portsmouth
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Portsmouth instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 🙏
See why our learners in Portsmouth love Rated Driving ♥️
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Why I Recommend Driving Lessons in Portsmouth
I took my driving lessons with Rated Driving in Portsmouth. 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!
Amelia O
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Passed First Time in Portsmouth – Thanks to Rated Driving!
Learning to drive in Portsmouth with Rated Driving was the best decision. I felt safe and supported throughout. Highly recommend them to anyone wanting to pass with confidence!
Ethan C
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My Experience Learning to Drive in Portsmouth
From the first lesson in Portsmouth, I knew I was in good hands. My instructor was so helpful and gave me all the tools to succeed. I passed first time!
Sophie C
Learning to drive in Portsmouth
Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth, so you’ll know what to expect and how to handle each section without second guessing.
Learning to drive in Portsmouth offers a unique and comprehensive experience, perfectly preparing you for a lifetime of confident driving. With its diverse road network and bustling city environment, Portsmouth provides an ideal setting to hone your skills behind the wheel. Rated Driving is here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring you become a safe and proficient driver in this vibrant city.
One of the key benefits of taking driving lessons in Portsmouth is the sheer variety of local driving conditions you’ll encounter. From navigating the busy urban streets around Commercial Road and Kingston Crescent, where you’ll master complex junctions and traffic flow, to practicing on quieter residential roads in areas like Southsea, perfect for developing your control and precision, Portsmouth has it all. You’ll also gain valuable experience on dual carriageways and merging onto faster roads, such as the A3 and M27, which are crucial for building confidence for motorway driving. This mix of environments ensures you’re well-prepared for any driving scenario, not just those within Portsmouth itself.
Beyond the practicalities of learning, Portsmouth is a city rich in history and attractions, offering plenty to explore once you’ve passed your test. Imagine the freedom of driving to the iconic Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, home to HMS Victory and the Mary Rose, or enjoying the panoramic views from the top of the Spinnaker Tower. You could take a leisurely drive along the Southsea seafront, perhaps stopping at Clarence Pier Amusement Park for some fun, or exploring the historic charm of Old Portsmouth. Even visiting the birthplace of Charles Dickens at 393 Old Commercial Road becomes an easy trip. These landmarks not only make Portsmouth an appealing place to learn but also provide excellent real-world driving destinations to practice your newfound independence.
When it comes to your practical driving test, the nearest centre is the Portsmouth Driving Test Centre, located on James Callaghan Drive, opposite Fort Southwick. This location is conveniently close to the M27, making it accessible for learners across Portsmouth and the surrounding areas. For your theory test, the Portsmouth Theory Test Centre is situated on the Ground Floor Annex, Enterprise House, Isambard Brunel Road, near Portsmouth Guildhall. It’s easily accessible by public transport, being just a short walk from Portsmouth & Southsea train station.
Learning to drive in Portsmouth with Rated Driving means you’ll receive expert tuition tailored to the local conditions, giving you the best possible chance of passing your test and becoming a confident driver. Our instructors are familiar with the specific challenges and nuances of driving in Portsmouth, from busy city routes to quieter residential streets, ensuring you gain comprehensive experience.
Ready to embark on your driving journey in Portsmouth? Don’t delay your independence any longer. Book your driving lessons in Portsmouth with Rated Driving today and take the first step towards gaining your freedom on the road.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Portsmouth
Lee On The Solent Driving Test Centre
The Richard Sainsbury Building, Daedalus, Chark Lane, Lee-on-the-Solent, PO13 9YA
Southampton (Forest Hills) Driving Test Centre
Forest Hills Drive, Southampton, Hampshire, SO18 2FY
Chichester Driving Test Centre
Wyman House, Shopwhyke Road, Chichester, West Sussex, PO20 2AA
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 Portsmouth for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Portsmouth for lessons, navigating by public transport is straightforward. Portsmouth has excellent rail links, with two main stations: Portsmouth & Southsea in the city centre and Portsmouth Harbour, ideal for the Historic Dockyard.
From Southampton, direct South Western Railway services frequently reach Portsmouth & Southsea and Portsmouth Harbour, with journeys taking around 40-50 minutes. If you’re coming from Chichester, Southern services offer direct trains to Portsmouth & Southsea and Portsmouth Harbour, with the fastest journeys taking as little as 22 minutes. From Winchester, direct South Western Railway and Great Western Railway services connect to Portsmouth, typically taking around 50-55 minutes.
For the best fares to Portsmouth, book your train tickets in advance and consider travelling during Off-Peak hours (outside Monday-Friday rush hours and anytime on weekends). Peak times, generally 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on weekdays, can be busier and more expensive. You can book train tickets via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Portsmouth, public transport offers excellent connectivity from surrounding areas. From Havant, Stagecoach South operates the frequent Route 23, connecting Havant Bus Station to Portsmouth and Southsea. This service runs every 20 minutes from Bulbeck Road to St Agatha’s in Portsmouth, taking approximately 25 minutes.
If you’re travelling from Waterlooville, First Portsmouth, Fareham & Gosport’s Star services 7 and 8 provide a direct link to Portsmouth’s The Hard Interchange, with buses running every five minutes. The journey from Waterlooville’s Precinct station to The Hard Interchange in Portsmouth typically takes around 43 minutes.
From Fareham, First Portsmouth, Fareham & Gosport offers services into Portsmouth. The X4 Solent Ranger bus travels from Fareham to Portsmouth. For those in Gosport, the Gosport Ferry provides a quick 4-minute crossing to Portsmouth Harbour, where you can connect with various bus services into Portsmouth. Combined bus and ferry tickets are available.
To avoid traffic congestion in Portsmouth, especially on routes like London Road, North End, which has bus lane restrictions from 7 AM to 7 PM Monday to Saturday, consider travelling outside of peak hours. Early mornings or late evenings are generally best for a smoother journey into Portsmouth.
You can purchase bus tickets directly from the bus operator or via their apps. Stagecoach South tickets for Portsmouth and Havant are available on the Stagecoach Bus App. First Bus tickets for Portsmouth, Fareham & Gosport can be bought online or through their app. You can also explore bus ticket options on Trainline.
Fun Fact About Portsmouth
Portsmouth, founded around 1180, is the UK’s only island city, situated on Portsea Island. It boasts the world’s oldest dry dock, built in 1495 by Henry VII. A quirky fact: Jonas Hanway, born in Portsmouth in 1712, was the first person in England to regularly carry an umbrella! Learn more about Portsmouth.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Portsmouth. 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 Portsmouth driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth’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 Portsmouth?
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 Portsmouth’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 Portsmouth, Southsea, King’s Worthy & Twyford.
- 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 Portsmouth? 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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- 🥳 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
Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Portsmouth who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Portsmouth
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Portsmouth who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Portsmouth
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Portsmouth ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Portsmouth.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Portsmouth today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover Near Portsmouth, 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 Portsmouth FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions like in Portsmouth for learners?
Portsmouth offers a diverse range of driving conditions, ideal for learners. You’ll experience busy urban streets and complex junctions in the city centre, quieter residential roads for practicing manoeuvres, and dual carriageways like the A3(M) and M27 for higher speed driving.
Where is the nearest driving test centre in Portsmouth, and what should I know about it?
The main driving test centre for Portsmouth is located on James Callaghan Drive, opposite Fort Southwick. It’s approximately 20 minutes from the city centre and test routes often include a mix of urban, residential, and dual carriageway roads.
How can I book driving lessons in Portsmouth with Rated Driving?
Booking driving lessons with Rated Driving in Portsmouth is straightforward. You can visit our website, enter your postcode to get prices, and then select your preferred package. We offer flexible scheduling and match you with a local, DVSA-registered instructor.
What advice do you have for complete beginner drivers in Portsmouth?
For beginners in Portsmouth, it’s recommended to start by getting your provisional licence. Rated Driving instructors are experienced in helping nervous pupils build confidence. You’ll begin in quieter areas like parts of Hilsea or residential streets in Southsea to master the basics before progressing to busier roads.
What are Rated Driving’s policies on refunds for driving lessons in Portsmouth?
Rated Driving offers a “100% Money Back Guarantee” for the first hour of your initial driving lesson if you’re not satisfied, provided you contact us within 24 hours. For subsequent lessons, refunds for payments made within the last 30 days are processed according to the agreed hours and value between you and your instructor.
Can I change my driving instructor with Rated Driving in Portsmouth if I’m not happy?
Yes, Rated Driving understands the importance of a good instructor-learner rapport. While it’s not possible to change instructors unless there’s a material issue, as judged by Rated Driving, we will endeavour to connect you with a replacement instructor if a material issue is determined.
What payment options are available for driving lessons in Portsmouth with Rated Driving?
Rated Driving offers flexible payment options for your driving lessons in Portsmouth. You can pay as you go for standard lessons, or save up to £110 by purchasing lessons in bulk. There is no deposit or upfront cost required for standard driving lessons.
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].
