Rated 'Excellent' on Trustpilot
Driving Lessons in Borstal
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Borstal instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Borstal 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 Borstal 🙏
See why our learners in Borstal love Rated Driving ♥️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Unforgettable Driving Journey in Borstal
I never thought I’d enjoy driving, but Rated Driving in Borstal changed that. Great instructor, great tips, and a big confidence boost – I passed with ease!
Ethan V
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Passed First Time in Borstal – Thanks to Rated Driving!
My experience with Rated Driving in Borstal was incredible. The lessons were structured, and my instructor made learning fun. I passed on my first try!
Isla N
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Friendly and Professional Instructors in Borstal
I took my driving lessons with Rated Driving in Borstal. 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!
Emily I
Learning to drive in Borstal
Borstal 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 Borstal, 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 Kent, Borstal offers an excellent environment to gain confidence and master the skills needed to pass your driving test. With its mix of residential streets and access to larger roads, Borstal provides a comprehensive learning experience.
Taking driving lessons in Borstal with a reputable provider like Rated Driving offers numerous benefits. The convenience of local lessons means less travel time and more focus on your driving. Borstal’s varied road network is ideal for learners. You’ll navigate quieter residential streets, perfect for practicing manoeuvres like parallel parking and three-point turns, before progressing to busier main roads such as the A229 or parts of the A2, which will help you build confidence in higher-speed driving and complex junctions. This gradual progression, tailored to the local driving conditions in Borstal, ensures you’re well-prepared for any situation on the road.
Beyond the practicalities of learning, Borstal and its surrounding areas boast a rich history and appealing attractions that can enhance your overall experience. Imagine finishing a successful driving lesson and then taking a moment to explore the magnificent Rochester Castle, a stunning Norman fortress with a commanding view of the River Medway. Or perhaps you’d prefer to visit the historic Rochester Cathedral, England’s second oldest bishopric, offering a serene escape. Just a short drive from Borstal, you can also discover Upnor Castle, an Elizabethan artillery fort with a fascinating past, or delve into the intriguing tunnels of Fort Amherst, a Napoleonic fortification. For those who appreciate nature, Capstone Farm Country Park, a beautiful expanse of former farmland, is perfect for a relaxing stroll after your lesson. These local landmarks not only provide great destinations for a post-lesson unwind but also offer opportunities to practice driving in different environments, from urban settings to roads leading to more rural attractions.
When it comes to taking your driving tests, Borstal is conveniently located near essential centres. The nearest practical driving test centre is the Gillingham Driving Test Centre, located at Unit 1, Astra Park, Courteney Road, Gillingham, Kent, ME8 0RZ. You can find more information about booking your practical test on the official GOV.UK website: Find a practical driving test centre. For your theory test, the closest facility is the Chatham Theory Test Centre, situated at Pearson Professional Centre, 14-16 High Street, Chatham, Kent, ME4 4EP. You can book your theory test and find further details on the GOV.UK website: Find a theory test centre.
Choosing to learn in Borstal means you’ll benefit from a well-rounded driving education, preparing you for success on your test and for a lifetime of safe driving. The local expertise of Rated Driving instructors, combined with Borstal’s diverse road conditions and accessible test centres, makes it an ideal choice. Don’t delay your journey to independence; take the wheel and book your driving lessons in Borstal today.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Borstal
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
Chatham Theory Test Centre
14-16 High Street, Chatham, Kent, ME4 4EP
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 Borstal for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Borstal for lessons, efficient public transport is key. Borstal, a village absorbed by Rochester, is well-connected.
If you’re coming from areas like London, Southeastern and Thameslink train services are your primary routes to Borstal. You’ll typically arrive at Strood or Rochester station. From Strood, Southeastern trains run from London Charing Cross via London Bridge. Thameslink also operates hourly services from London Blackfriars to Strood. From Rochester station, you can take a local bus service, such as the 145, to reach Borstal. The White Horse in Borstal is a key bus stop, just a 1-4 minute walk from various points in Borstal. Bus routes 135, 155, and 700 also serve Borstal.
For the best travel experience to Borstal, aim for Off-Peak hours. These are generally outside Monday to Friday rush hours (typically 6:30 AM – 9:30 AM and 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM). Weekends usually have no off-peak restrictions, offering more flexibility for your journey to Borstal. You can book train tickets via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Borstal, public transport offers convenient access. Arriva Kent and Surrey operates the 155 bus service directly to Borstal from Chatham Waterfront Bus Station, with key stops including Borstal Village Surgery, Borstal Silver Hill, and Borstal Cookham Hill. Nu-Venture’s 135 bus also serves Borstal from Chatham, stopping at locations like Rochester Health Centre and The Thomas Aveling School before reaching Borstal.
For those travelling to Borstal from further afield, consider connecting via Chatham. The 700 bus route also serves Borstal. To avoid traffic, especially on weekdays, aim to travel outside of peak hours (typically 7 AM – 10 AM and 4 PM – 7 PM). You can purchase bus tickets directly from the bus operator or explore options on Arriva UK Bus.
Fun Fact About Borstal
The Borstal system, named after the village in Kent where the first institution was established in 1902, was a UK reformatory for young offenders aged 16-21, aiming for rehabilitation through education and discipline rather than just punishment. A lesser-known detail: during WWI, many Borstal boys joined the armed forces, sometimes receiving sentence reductions for their service. Learn more about its history: Borstal.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Borstal. 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 Borstal driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Borstal 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 Borstal’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 Borstal?
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 Borstal’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 Borstal, Meopham, Hartley & Wilmington.
- 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 Borstal? Whether you prefer automatic or manual, there are plenty of flexible lesson options available. Simply type in your postcode and submit your enquiry to be matched with a expert local DVSA-registered driving instructor in your area.
🤔 How many driving lessons will I need?
The DVSA says most people need about 40 hours of professional lessons, plus private practice. We'll help tailor your schedule to build confidence efficiently.
- The DVSA recommends about 45 hours of professional lessons and 22 hours of private practice for most learners.
- Some learners feel confident sooner, others need more time.
- Your instructor will monitor your progress and advise when you’re test-ready.
- Practice regularly for the best results.
- Everyone learns at their own pace.
Some learners feel test-ready in 30 hours. Others need more time to build confidence behind the wheel. What really matters isn’t the total - it’s the consistency.
The more often you drive, the more natural it becomes. Combining quality instructor lessons with regular practice builds confidence quickly.
Every learner progresses at their own pace, and that’s perfectly normal. Your instructor will adapt to your comfort level and guide you through each step with patience.
🧐 How to prepare for your first driving lesson
Getting ready for your first driving lesson is an exciting step - and a bit of preparation can help you feel more confident and relaxed on the day. Here’s a simple guide to help you make the most of it:
1. Check Your Provisional Licence
Before your lesson, make sure you have a valid provisional driving licence. Your instructor will need to see it to confirm you’re legally allowed to drive.
2. Get Familiar with the Basics
Take a few minutes to learn the basic layout of a car - the pedals, gear stick, steering wheel, and mirrors. Watching a short video or reading a beginner’s guide can help you feel more prepared.
3. Choose Comfortable Clothing
Wear clothes that allow you to move freely and flat-soled shoes that give you good control of the pedals. Avoid anything bulky or restrictive.
4. Bring the Essentials
Have your provisional licence with you, along with glasses or contact lenses if you need them to drive. A bottle of water is also a good idea to stay hydrated.
5. Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Feeling well-rested will help you stay focused and alert throughout your lesson.
6. Brush Up on the Highway Code
A quick review of key road signs, speed limits, and basic driving rules can give you a boost in confidence before you get behind the wheel. [download The Highway Code 2025 PDF]
7. Keep Your Expectations Realistic
Your first lesson is all about getting familiar with the car and starting to build your skills. Don’t worry about getting everything perfect - take it one step at a time.
With the right preparation and a calm mindset, you’ll be off to a great start.
🙏 What to expect on your first driving lesson
Your first driving lesson is a key milestone - it's where everything begins. The goal is to help you feel comfortable, introduce you to the car, and give you your first taste of driving. Here’s what typically happens during your first session:
1. Meet Your Instructor
You’ll meet your DVSA-registered driving instructor, who will check your provisional licence and have a quick chat about any experience or knowledge you already have.
2. Go Through the Cockpit Drill (DSSSM)
Before driving, you'll go through a quick safety routine to get set up properly:
- Doors - Make sure all doors are securely closed.
- Seat - Adjust your seat so you can reach the pedals comfortably.
- Steering - Adjust the steering wheel to suit your position.
- Seatbelt - Buckle up for safety.
- Mirrors - Position your mirrors for a clear view around the car.
3. Learn the Basic Car Controls
Your instructor will show you the key controls, including:
- Accelerator, brake, and clutch (if you're learning in a manual)
- Gear stick, handbrake, and indicators
- Other essentials like lights and wipers
4. Practice Moving Off and Stopping
You’ll start with the basics:
- How to start the engine safely
- Checking mirrors and blind spots
- Moving off smoothly and bringing the car to a controlled stop
5. Drive on Quiet Roads
If you're ready, your instructor may take you to a quiet area to practice simple driving skills like steering, gear changes, and stopping calmly.
6. Feedback and Next Steps
At the end of the lesson, your instructor will talk you through what went well and what to work on next time. This feedback helps you build confidence and track your progress.
Top Tips from our Experienced DVSA Approved Driving Instructor Experts
Q: How do I handle roundabouts without panicking?
"Stay calm by following the MSPSL routine (Mirrors, Signal, Position, Speed, Look) and always look right on approach. Practice with mini roundabouts first, then build up to larger ones using diagrams and videos for support."
Reginos Theodotou
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor for 20 years.
Q: What’s the correct way to check mirrors and signal?
"Check your mirrors before any change in direction, speed, or overtaking - act safely on what you see. Only signal if necessary, and make sure it’s correctly timed and clear."
Mali Summers
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: How do I stay calm before and during my driving lessons?
"Take deep breaths, remind yourself it's okay to make mistakes, and trust your instructor."
Shorif Kazi
DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: Is it easier to pass your driving test in an automatic car?
"Yes it much easier to pass in an automatic than a manual car. It’s especially effective for nervous drivers."
Mari Wright
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: What's the best way to learn clutch control?
"Practice clutch control in a quiet area by finding the bite point in first gear with light gas, checking all around (including blind spots), then releasing the handbrake. Read More
Mali Summers
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: Why do some people choose automatic over manual?
"Some people choose automatic because it's quicker to learn, less stressful, and easier to practise if they have access to an automatic car.
Read More
Mari Wright
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: What should I do if I make a mistake while driving?
"Stay calm, don’t panic - your instructor is there to help. Just learn from it and keep going."
Shorif Kazi
DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: How do I stop stalling at junction and roundabout?
"To avoid stalling at junctions and roundabouts, plan ahead, use the correct gear and speed, and anticipate when you’ll need to move.Read More
Mali Summers
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: How do I handle roundabouts without panicking?
"Knowledge, understanding when to go and when to wait."
Graham Morgan
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor for 15 years.
Q: How can I build my confidence if I’m a nervous driver?
"Practice regularly, start in quiet areas, and focus on small wins each lesson."
Shorif Kazi
DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: What do most people fail their driving test on?
"Interactions with others, junctions, meeting and roundabouts."
Graham Morgan
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor for 15 years.
Q: How many lessons does it really take to pass?
"It depends on the person, but most people need around 40–50 hours with a qualified instructor I have achieved 32 to 36 hours"
Shorif Kazi
DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: Can I drive a manual car if I pass in an automatic?
"If you pass in an automatic, you CANNOT unfortunately drive a manual car."
Mari Wright
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: What’s the number one mistake learners make?
"Trying to hard to be perfect. Mistakes are part of life."
Graham Morgan
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor for 15 years.
🏆 Pass Guarantee
Pass first time or they will refund you your £23! See test fee back! T&Cs apply
HAVEN'T PASSED YOUR THEORY TEST YET?
Master the questions and hazard perception to pass your theory test first time
Rated Driving has partnered with the UK's No.1 Theory Test app from Driving Test Success. With Theory Test 4 in 1 you can study from 85 interactive Hazard Perception video clips from The latest Highway Code 2025 Edition. Sit unlimited mock tests to pass first time!
- 🥳 97% of people pass using the app
- 🎉 Helped over 18+ million learners
- 🙏 FREE Pass Guarantee
- Theory test questions
- Road signs
- Hazard perception
- DVSA & Smart AI
Start studying now, Download today.
1600+ DVSA-Registered Driving Instructors
Excellent Learner Driver Reviews
Money-Back Guarantee Policy
WHAT CAN I GET
Borstal 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 Borstal
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Borstal who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Borstal
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Borstal who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Borstal
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Borstal ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Borstal.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Borstal today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover Near Borstal, 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 Borstal FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions in Borstal, and how will Rated Driving prepare me for them?
Borstal features a mix of residential streets and connections to busier roads like those leading towards Rochester and Chatham. Your Rated Driving instructor will tailor lessons to include navigating these varied conditions, from quieter areas ideal for beginners to more complex junctions and traffic on routes such as the A229, ensuring you gain confidence for your driving test and everyday driving.
Where are the nearest driving test centres to Borstal, and will my lessons cover the test routes?
The closest practical driving test centres to Borstal are likely to be in nearby towns such as Gillingham or Maidstone. Your Rated Driving instructor will familiarise you with potential test routes and common manoeuvres in these areas, giving you the best chance of success on your test day.
How do I book driving lessons in Borstal with Rated Driving, and what payment options are available?
Booking driving lessons with Rated Driving in Borstal is straightforward. You can book online 24/7 via our website or app, and we’ll connect you with a local instructor. We offer flexible pay-as-you-go options, and there’s no deposit or upfront cost for standard lessons. You can also save up to £110 by purchasing lessons in bulk.
What advice does Rated Driving offer for complete beginners starting driving lessons in Borstal?
For beginners in Borstal, your first lessons with Rated Driving will focus on fundamental car controls and basic manoeuvres in quiet, safe areas. Your instructor will guide you through everything from steering and braking to understanding traffic laws, building your confidence step-by-step before progressing to busier roads.
What is Rated Driving’s policy on refunds or changing instructors in Borstal?
Rated Driving offers a “100% Money Back Guarantee” for the first hour of your initial lesson if you’re not satisfied, provided you contact us within 24 hours. While changing instructors isn’t typically possible unless there’s a material issue, we will endeavour to rebook you with a new instructor if deemed necessary.
Can I get intensive driving lessons in Borstal with Rated Driving, and how quickly can I book a fast-track test?
Yes, Rated Driving offers intensive driving courses in Borstal designed to accelerate your learning. These courses can help you get test-ready in as little as 7 days and often come with a fast-track test booking. You can even spread the cost of intensive courses with interest-free payments through Klarna.
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].
