Rated 'Excellent' on Trustpilot
Driving Lessons in Kent
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Kent instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Kent 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 Kent 🙏
See why our learners in Kent love Rated Driving ♥️
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Confident Behind the Wheel in Kent
Learning to drive in Kent with Rated Driving was the best decision. I felt safe and supported throughout. Highly recommend them to anyone wanting to pass with confidence!
Amelia O
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Stress-Free Driving Lessons in Kent
Learning to drive in Kent with Rated Driving was the best decision. I felt safe and supported throughout. Highly recommend them to anyone wanting to pass with confidence!
Sophie M
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Friendly and Professional Instructors in Kent
My experience with Rated Driving in Kent was incredible. The lessons were structured, and my instructor made learning fun. I passed on my first try!
Liam R
Learning to drive in Kent
Kent 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 Kent, 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 the South East, Kent offers an exceptional environment to master your driving skills. With its diverse road network and picturesque surroundings, Kent provides a comprehensive learning experience that prepares you for any driving scenario.
Rated Driving is your premier provider for driving lessons in Kent, offering expert instruction tailored to your individual needs. Our experienced instructors are intimately familiar with the local roads, ensuring you gain confidence and competence behind the wheel. Imagine navigating the bustling A2 and A20 trunk roads, which connect major towns and are essential for long-distance travel, or tackling the M2 and M20 motorways, crucial for understanding higher speed limits and multi-lane driving. You’ll also get to practice on quieter residential streets, like those found in areas such as Canterbury or the more affluent lanes of Sevenoaks, perfect for honing your manoeuvres and developing spatial awareness. Challenging roundabouts, such as the busy St George’s roundabout in Canterbury city centre or the M20’s Junction 11 in Folkestone, will become second nature with our guidance. There’s even a new ‘Turbo Roundabout’ planned for the Running Horse Roundabout near Maidstone, linking the M20 with the A229, which will offer a unique learning experience.
Beyond the practicalities of driving, Kent boasts a wealth of attractions that make learning here even more appealing. After a productive lesson, you could unwind with a visit to the historic Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or explore the magnificent grounds of Leeds Castle near Maidstone. For those who appreciate natural beauty, the iconic White Cliffs of Dover offer breathtaking views and a chance to reflect on your progress. You might even find yourself driving past the charming Hever Castle, Anne Boleyn’s childhood home, near Edenbridge. These landmarks not only provide a pleasant backdrop to your lessons but also help you become familiar with the local area, enhancing your overall driving experience in Kent.
When you’re ready to take your practical driving test in Kent, you’ll find several convenient test centres. Popular options include the Ashford (Kent) Driving Test Centre, located at the Civic Centre on Tannery Lane, or the Canterbury Practical Driving Test Centre on New Dover Road. Another key centre is the Gillingham Practical Driving Test Centre at Astra Park on Courteney Road. You can find more information about these and other centres on the official GOV.UK website: Find a driving test centre.
Before you can take your practical test, you’ll need to pass your theory test. Kent offers several theory test centres to choose from. The Canterbury Theory Test Centre is conveniently located at Suite E, The Clock Tower Building, St Georges Street. Another option is the Chatham Theory Test Centre at 14-16 High Street. For those in the western part of the county, the Tunbridge Wells Theory Test Centre can be found at Foundation House, Coach And Horses Passage, The Pantiles. You can locate your nearest theory test centre and book your test via the GOV.UK website: Find a theory test centre.
With Rated Driving, you’re not just learning to drive; you’re gaining the skills and confidence to navigate the diverse roads of Kent with ease. Our commitment to hyperlocal instruction ensures you’re well-prepared for both your test and a lifetime of safe driving. Don’t delay your journey to independence. Book your driving lessons in Kent with Rated Driving today and start your adventure on the road.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Kent
Gillingham Practical Driving Test Centre
Unit 1, Astra Park, Courteney Road, Gillingham, Kent, ME8 0RZ
Maidstone Practical Driving Test Centre
Unit 1 North Court, South Park Business Village, Armstrong Road, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 6JZ
Folkestone Practical Driving Test Centre
Palting House, Trinity Road, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 2RH
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 Kent for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Kent for lessons, navigating public transport is straightforward. From London, Southeastern services are your primary link to Kent. High-speed Javelin trains from London St Pancras International reach Ashford International in under 40 minutes, and continue to Canterbury West and Dover Priory, offering a swift journey into Kent. For other parts of Kent, mainline Southeastern trains run from London Bridge, Charing Cross, London Waterloo East, Victoria, and Cannon Street, connecting to major Kent towns like Dover, Ramsgate, and Tunbridge Wells.
To ensure a smooth journey to Kent, aim for off-peak travel, typically outside weekday rush hours (7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM). Weekends generally offer more relaxed travel times to Kent. Booking your train tickets in advance can also secure better fares for your trip to Kent. You can book train tickets via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Kent, public transport offers excellent connectivity. From Ashford, Stagecoach South East operates routes like the 1, 1A, and 1X into Canterbury, stopping at key points such as Ashford International Station and Canterbury Bus Station. The 10 and 10A also connect Folkestone Bus Station to Ashford. If you’re coming from Folkestone, the Stagecoach 16 service runs directly to Canterbury Bus Station. From Maidstone, the Stagecoach X3 service connects to Canterbury Bus Station, passing through Sittingbourne and Faversham. Arriva also provides services in Maidstone, including routes like the 12 to Tenterden.
To avoid traffic and peak hours in Kent, aim to travel outside of weekday mornings (7 AM – 10 AM) and evenings (4 PM – 7 PM). Many bus operators in Kent, such as Stagecoach and Arriva, offer DayRider and MegaRider tickets for unlimited travel within specific zones, which can be purchased on the bus or via their mobile apps. You can also explore the Discovery Ticket for unlimited travel across most major operators in Kent and the South. For booking bus tickets and planning your journey to Kent, visit Stagecoach Bus or Arriva UK Bus.
Fun Fact About Kent
Kent, known as the “Garden of England,” is the UK’s oldest county, historically a kingdom settled by Germanic tribes after the Romans departed. A fun fact: the world’s oldest horse fossil, dating back 54 million years, was discovered in Herne Bay, making it the “birthplace of the horse”! Learn more about Kent.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Kent. 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 Kent driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Kent 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 Kent’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 Kent?
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 Kent’s roads inside out - so you can learn faster and pass with confidence.
- Local Experts, Ready to Go:
Over 212 DVSA-registered driving instructors across Kent including Kent, Boxley, Chart Sutton & Boughton Monchelsea.
- 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 Kent? 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
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- Theory test questions
- Road signs
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- 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
Kent 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 Kent
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Kent who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Kent
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Kent who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Kent
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Kent ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Kent.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Kent today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover In Kent
Are you looking for the top driving lessons in nearby locations? Rated Driving also offers driving lessons in nearby areas, including:
MaidstoneTunbridge-wellsTonbridgeSnodlandSittingbourneRochesterGillinghamRainhamDartfordAylesfordChathamEast-mallingKemsingOtfordSouthboroughBearstedWatlingTwydallFrindsburyStroodSt-marys-islandWaldersladeLordswoodHoo-st-werburghShepwayPark-woodDownswoodAllingtonThanetAshfordSheernessQueenboroughWest-mallingFavershamHytheFolkestoneDoverDealSandwichBroadstairsBirchingtonWhitstableHempsteadSevenoaksHerne-bayWestgate-on-seaRamsgateMargateSturryLittlebourneCharthamCanterburyGravesendSouth-darenthKnockholtFawkhamHalsteadShorehamCrockenhillFarninghamSealDunton-greenWest-kingsdownWesterhamSwanleyCapstoneDarlandBlue-bell-hillBurhamEcclesNew-hytheLeybourneLarkfieldHextableEynsfordNew-ash-greenMeophamHartleyWilmingtonStoneLongfieldNorthfleetSwanscombeGreenhitheUpnorWainscottBorstalHallingCuxtonAllhallowsHigh-halstowSissinghurstBenendenRobertsbridgeLyddMayfieldNew-romneyEdenbridgeWadhurstHawkhurstPaddock-woodCranbrookTenterdenHeathfieldUckfieldRyeBattleCrowboroughBexhillLyddenShepherdswellWalmerWinghamAshCliffsendMinsterHawkingeAyleshamWest-farleighOthamNettlesteadLenhamHuckingHollingbourneHarrietshamFrinstedEast-suttonEast-farleighDetlingTovilStaplehurstSenacreRinglestonePenenden-heathMangravetPalace-woodYaldingMardenLintonLooseLangleyLeedsHeadcornSutton-valenceGrove-greenCoxheathBoxleyChart-suttonBoughton-monchelseaBarming
Driving lessons in Kent FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions like in Kent, and how will Rated Driving prepare me for them?
Kent offers a diverse range of driving conditions, from the busy urban roads in towns like Maidstone and Canterbury to the more challenging rural routes and motorways such as the M20 and M2. Rated Driving instructors are local experts who will tailor your lessons to ensure you gain confidence and experience across all these environments, preparing you for real-world driving scenarios.
Which driving test centres are available in Kent, and will my Rated Driving instructor be familiar with the routes?
Kent has several driving test centres, including locations in Ashford, Canterbury, Gillingham, Maidstone, and Tunbridge Wells. Your Rated Driving instructor will be highly familiar with the local test routes and common tricky spots around these centres, ensuring you are well-prepared for your practical test.
How do I book driving lessons in Kent with Rated Driving, and what payment options are available?
Booking driving lessons in Kent with Rated Driving is straightforward. You can easily book online through our website or by calling us. We offer flexible payment options, including pay-as-you-go lessons and bulk lesson packages, with no deposit or upfront cost for standard lessons. You can even save up to £110 by purchasing lessons in bulk, and for intensive courses, we offer interest-free payments via Klarna.
What advice does Rated Driving offer for complete beginner drivers in Kent?
For complete beginner drivers in Kent, Rated Driving focuses on building confidence from your very first lesson. Our instructors are patient and will guide you through the basics in a calm environment, often starting in quieter areas before progressing to busier roads. We offer tailored lesson plans to suit your individual pace, ensuring a comfortable and effective learning experience.
What is Rated Driving’s policy on refunds and changing instructors in Kent?
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. We aim to rebook you with a new instructor if needed. While refunds for subsequent lessons are generally agreed upon between the learner and instructor, you can easily request a different instructor through the Rated Driving app if they are not a perfect fit.
Can I take intensive driving courses in Kent with Rated Driving, and how do they work?
Yes, Rated Driving offers intensive driving courses across Kent, designed to help you pass your test quickly and efficiently. These courses are tailored to your local area and can range from 1 to 6 weeks, with experienced instructors who specialise in accelerated learning. You can discuss the best intensive course for your current driving ability with one of our specialist instructors.
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].
