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Driving Lessons in Bearsted
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Bearsted instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Bearsted 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 Bearsted 🙏
See why our learners in Bearsted love Rated Driving ♥️
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Friendly and Professional Instructors in Bearsted
Rated Driving in Bearsted made learning to drive a breeze. The instructor helped me stay calm and focused, and I passed first time. Great service!
Freya N
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Unforgettable Driving Journey in Bearsted
From the first lesson in Bearsted, 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 P
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Why I Recommend Driving Lessons in Bearsted
From the first lesson in Bearsted, I knew I was in good hands. My instructor was so helpful and gave me all the tools to succeed. I passed first time!
Leo Z
Learning to drive in Bearsted
Bearsted 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 Bearsted, so you’ll know what to expect and how to handle each section without second guessing.
Learning to drive in Bearsted offers a fantastic opportunity to gain confidence and essential skills on a variety of road types, all within a convenient and accessible location. Rated Driving is your go-to provider for driving lessons in Bearsted, offering tailored instruction to help you navigate the local roads with ease.
Bearsted provides an ideal environment for learner drivers. Its mix of quieter residential streets and busier main roads allows for a comprehensive learning experience. You’ll have the chance to master essential manoeuvres on roads like Church Lane and The Green, which retain a traditional village feel. As you progress, your instructor will guide you onto more challenging routes, such as the A20 Ashford Road, which passes directly through Bearsted, and the A249 Bearsted Road, where you can gain valuable experience with roundabouts and increased traffic flow. These varied conditions ensure you’re well-prepared for any driving scenario.
Beyond the practicalities of learning, Bearsted boasts several appealing local attractions that make the area a pleasant place to spend time. After a productive driving lesson, you could unwind with a stroll around the picturesque Bearsted Green, a historic village green flanked by traditional pubs. For those who enjoy the outdoors, part of the expansive Mote Park is incorporated into Bearsted’s western boundary, offering a beautiful space to relax. Just a short drive away, you’ll find the magnificent Leeds Castle, often referred to as the “loveliest castle in the world,” with its stunning gardens and maze. Another unique local gem is the Kent Owl Academy, where you can enjoy flying demonstrations and even hold an owl. These attractions not only add to the charm of Bearsted but also provide excellent opportunities for your instructor to introduce you to different driving scenarios, such as navigating to popular destinations.
When it comes to taking your practical driving test, the nearest centre to Bearsted is the Maidstone Driving Test Centre, located on Armstrong Road in Maidstone. This centre is conveniently situated and easily accessible from Bearsted, allowing you to become familiar with the routes often used during tests, such as those incorporating Bearsted Road and Provender Way. For your theory test, the nearest centre is also in Maidstone. You can find more information and book your theory test via the official GOV.UK website.
Choosing to learn with Rated Driving in Bearsted means you’ll benefit from instructors who possess excellent local knowledge, ensuring your lessons are relevant and effective for passing your test in this area. They understand the nuances of driving in Bearsted, from its charming village roads to its busier arterial routes.
Ready to embark on your driving journey in Bearsted? Book your driving lessons with Rated Driving today and take the first step towards gaining your independence on the road.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Bearsted
Maidstone Driving Test Centre
Unit 1 North Court, South Park Business Village, Armstrong Road, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 6JZ
Gillingham Driving Test Centre
Unit 1, Astra Park, Courteney Road, Gillingham, Kent, ME8 0RZ
Tunbridge Wells Driving Test Centre
8 Upper Grosvenor Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 2ES
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 Bearsted for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Bearsted, accessing the village by train is straightforward from various nearby locations. If you’re coming from Maidstone, Southeastern services run frequently from Maidstone East directly to Bearsted, with journeys taking as little as 4 minutes. From further afield, such as London, you can take a Southeastern train from London Victoria to Bearsted, typically taking around 1 hour and 10 minutes. Some services to Bearsted also originate from Ashford International, with connections continuing to Canterbury West.
For the best experience travelling to Bearsted, aim for Off-Peak hours. These are generally outside Monday to Friday rush hours, which are typically 06:30 to 09:30 and 16:00 to 19:00. Weekends and public holidays are usually considered Off-Peak all day, offering more relaxed journeys to Bearsted. Avoiding peak times ensures a less crowded and potentially cheaper trip to Bearsted. You can book your train tickets via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
To reach Bearsted for your driving lessons, several bus services connect from surrounding areas. From Maidstone, Arriva Kent & Surrey operates routes like the 4 and 9, which serve Bearsted, with stops including The Rose and The Landway. The Detling Shopper bus also runs from Maidstone to Bearsted, specifically stopping at Bearsted Green and the Railway Station. If you’re coming from Ashford, the Stagecoach South East 510 service provides a direct link to Bearsted, with stops such as Otham Lane and The Yeoman.
For optimal travel to Bearsted, aim for off-peak hours, generally between 10 AM and 3 PM on weekdays, to avoid heavy traffic and busier services. Bearsted bus services can be less frequent during evenings and weekends, so always check timetables in advance. You can purchase bus tickets directly from the bus operator or explore options on Trainline or Arriva UK Bus.
Fun Fact About Bearsted
Bearsted, Kent, boasts a rich history, with its Holy Cross Church potentially being a very early church site from 601 AD. Interestingly, the village was omitted from the 1086 Domesday Book, a puzzle for historians! Cricket has been played on Bearsted Green since 1749.
Learn more about Bearsted.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Bearsted. 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 Bearsted driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Bearsted 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 Bearsted’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 Bearsted?
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 Bearsted’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 Bearsted, Snodland, Sittingbourne & Gillingham.
- 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 Bearsted? 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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1600+ DVSA-Registered Driving Instructors
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WHAT CAN I GET
Bearsted 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 Bearsted
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Bearsted who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Bearsted
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Bearsted who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Bearsted
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Bearsted ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Bearsted.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Bearsted today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover Near Bearsted, Kent
Are you looking for the top driving lessons in nearby locations? Rated Driving also offers driving lessons in nearby areas, including:
Driving lessons in Bearsted FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions like in Bearsted?
Bearsted offers a varied environment for learning to drive, from navigating the main roads and thoroughfares to perfecting manoeuvres in quieter residential areas. You’ll also gain experience on dual carriageways, such as the A20, which runs nearby, and rural roads around the village, helping you build confidence in diverse traffic conditions.
Where are the nearest driving test centres to Bearsted?
The primary driving test centre for learners in Bearsted is likely to be in nearby Maidstone. Your Rated Driving instructor will be familiar with the local test routes, including those that incorporate areas like Park Way, Bearsted Road, and Provender Way, to help you prepare thoroughly.
How can I book driving lessons in Bearsted with Rated Driving?
Booking driving lessons in Bearsted with Rated Driving is straightforward. You can easily book online through the Rated Driving website or by calling 0330 043 9896. Rated Driving aims to get you started with a DVSA-registered instructor in as little as 10 minutes.
What advice do you have for beginner drivers in Bearsted?
For beginner drivers in Bearsted, it’s recommended to start in quieter residential areas to master basic car control before moving onto busier roads. Your Rated Driving instructor will tailor lessons to your pace, ensuring you gain confidence on various road types, including town centres, residential streets, and dual carriageways.
What is Rated Driving’s refund policy for lessons in Bearsted?
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 them within 24 hours. For subsequent lessons, refunds for payments made within the last 30 days are processed based on the agreed hours and value between you and your instructor.
Can I change my driving instructor with Rated Driving in Bearsted?
Yes, if you find that your instructor isn’t the right fit, Rated Driving allows you to request a different driving instructor. You can do this through their app by selecting the ‘instructor’ tab and then ‘request a different driving instructor’.
What payment options are available for driving lessons in Bearsted with Rated Driving?
Rated Driving offers flexible payment options for driving lessons in Bearsted, including pay-as-you-go. There is no deposit or upfront cost for standard lessons. You can also save up to £110 by purchasing lessons in bulk, and for intensive courses, Klarna’s “buy now, pay later” service is available for three interest-free payments.
How does Rated Driving help me prepare for the driving test in Bearsted?
Rated Driving instructors in Bearsted are familiar with local driving test routes and use a structured approach to help you become test-ready. They will cover all key aspects of safe driving, including town centre navigation, residential skills, and dual carriageway experience, aiming for learners to be test-ready within approximately 35 hours of professional tuition.
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].
