Rated 'Excellent' on Trustpilot
Driving Lessons in Chartham
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Chartham instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Chartham 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 Chartham 🙏
See why our learners in Chartham love Rated Driving ♥️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Confident Behind the Wheel in Chartham
I took my driving lessons with Rated Driving in Chartham. 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!
Isla Q
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Stress-Free Driving Lessons in Chartham
I took my driving lessons with Rated Driving in Chartham. 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!
Isla Z
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Friendly and Professional Instructors in Chartham
Rated Driving in Chartham made learning to drive a breeze. The instructor helped me stay calm and focused, and I passed first time. Great service!
Grace G
Learning to drive in Chartham
Chartham 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 Chartham, 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, Chartham offers an ideal environment to master the roads, and with Rated Driving, you’ll receive expert instruction tailored to this unique area.
Chartham, a charming village nestled in the Canterbury district, provides a fantastic blend of road types, perfect for developing a comprehensive range of driving skills. You’ll start on quieter residential streets, such as those around Shalmsford Street or New Town Street, allowing you to get comfortable with basic car control and manoeuvres without the pressure of heavy traffic. As your confidence grows, your Rated Driving instructor will guide you onto busier routes. The A28, which runs through Chartham, offers an excellent opportunity to practice navigating main roads, understanding traffic flow, and handling junctions. You might also venture onto roads like Howfield Lane, which can present varying conditions and help you refine your hazard perception. The mix of village roads and connections to larger routes ensures that learners in Chartham are well-prepared for diverse driving scenarios.
Beyond the practical benefits, Chartham offers a pleasant backdrop for your driving journey. Imagine taking a break from your lesson and enjoying the tranquility of the Great Stour river valley, known for its fishing and bird life. You could even visit the historic St Mary’s Church, a 13th-century landmark with one of the country’s oldest sets of bells. For those interested in local produce, Chartham Vineyard offers tours and wine tasting, providing a relaxing post-lesson activity. These local attractions make learning to drive in Chartham not just about gaining a licence, but also about exploring and appreciating your local area.
When it comes to taking your practical driving test, the nearest centre to Chartham is the Canterbury Driving Test Centre, located at 25 New Dover Road, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 3AS. Your Rated Driving instructor will be familiar with the test routes in and around Canterbury, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the specific challenges you might encounter. For your theory test, the Canterbury Theory Test Centre is conveniently situated at Suite E, The Clock Tower Building, St Georges Street, Canterbury, CT1 2LE. You can find more information about both test centres on the official GOV.UK website: Find a driving test centre and Find a theory test centre.
Learning to drive in Chartham with Rated Driving means you’ll benefit from personalised instruction, a diverse range of local roads for practice, and the convenience of nearby test centres. Our experienced instructors are dedicated to making your learning experience enjoyable and effective, helping you become a confident and safe driver for life.
Ready to take the wheel and gain your independence in Chartham? Book your driving lessons with Rated Driving today and embark on your journey to becoming a skilled driver.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Chartham
Canterbury Practical Driving Test Centre
25 New Dover Road, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 3AS
Herne Bay Practical Driving Test Centre
Altria Business Park, Margate Road, Thanet Way, Herne Bay, Kent, CT6 6GZ
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 Chartham for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Chartham, public transport offers convenient access. Southeastern operates all train services to Chartham.
If you’re coming from Canterbury, direct trains to Chartham depart frequently from Canterbury West, with a quick journey time of around 4-5 minutes. From Ashford, direct Southeastern trains to Chartham take approximately 15 minutes. Wye also offers direct trains to Chartham, with journeys typically lasting about 9-10 minutes. For those travelling from Faversham, direct trains to Chartham are available, though less frequent, taking around 1 hour 21 minutes. There are no direct trains from Faversham to Chartham, requiring at least one change.
To avoid peak hours and potentially secure cheaper fares for your Chartham journey, aim to travel outside of Monday to Friday rush hours, generally 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Weekends and bank holidays are typically Off-Peak all day. You can book your train tickets to Chartham via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Chartham, public transport offers convenient access. Stagecoach South East operates key bus routes into Chartham. From Canterbury, the Stagecoach 1, 1A, 1X, and 24 services run frequently to Chartham, with the 1A and 1X stopping at Chartham Station, a minute’s walk from Chartham Vineyard. The journey from Canterbury to Chartham by bus typically takes around 12-13 minutes.
If you’re travelling from Ashford, Stagecoach routes 1, 1A, and 1X also serve Chartham, with the 1A stopping at Chartham Station. The bus journey from Ashford to Chartham averages about 30 minutes. For those in villages like Wye or Chilham, the Stagecoach 1A and 1X services connect to Chartham. Regent Coaches also operates the 667 service, connecting Challock, Old Wives Lees, and Chilham to Chartham and Canterbury.
To avoid traffic, it’s best to travel outside of peak hours, generally 7 AM – 10 AM and 4 PM – 7 PM on weekdays. You can purchase bus tickets directly from the bus operator or explore options on Stagecoach Bus or Arriva UK Bus.
Fun Fact About Chartham
Chartham, a Kentish village, boasts a rich history dating back to the Domesday Book where it was recorded as “Certeham,” meaning “village on rough ground.” It was home to a significant paper mill, with paper production starting as early as 1730. A fun fact: in 1846, Chartham residents initially opposed a railway station, leading to its prohibition in the original Act, but a station finally opened in 1859 after they realised the benefits! Learn more about Chartham.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Chartham. 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 Chartham driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Chartham 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 Chartham’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 Chartham?
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 Chartham’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 Chartham, Birchington, Whitstable & Hempstead.
- 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 Chartham? 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
Chartham 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 Chartham
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Chartham who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Chartham
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Chartham who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Chartham
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Chartham ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Chartham.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Chartham today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover Near Chartham, 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 Chartham FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions in Chartham?
Chartham offers a varied environment for learning to drive, including rural roads and connections to more urban areas like Canterbury. You’ll gain experience on a mix of road types, from quieter village lanes to busier routes, preparing you for diverse traffic situations.
Where is the nearest driving test centre to Chartham?
Most learners in Chartham typically take their driving test at the Hastings Driving Test Centre, located at Ivy House Lane. Rated Driving instructors are familiar with these local test routes, helping you prepare for specific challenges like roundabouts and junctions.
How do I book driving lessons in Chartham with Rated Driving?
Booking driving lessons with Rated Driving in Chartham is straightforward. You can book online 24/7 or by phone, and you could be connected with a local instructor in as little as 10 minutes.
What advice do you have for beginner drivers in Chartham?
For beginner drivers in Chartham, our DVSA-approved instructors tailor lessons to your pace, covering everything from basic controls to advanced manoeuvres. Learning in Chartham’s mixed road environment, including routes around the village green and the Old Mill, will help you build real-world skills and confidence.
What is Rated Driving’s cancellation policy for lessons in Chartham?
For standard driving lessons, you must give at least 48 hours’ notice directly to your instructor to cancel or rearrange lessons. Failure to do so may result in you forfeiting those lessons without a refund.
Can I change my driving instructor with Rated Driving in Chartham?
Yes, if you feel your driving instructor isn’t the right fit, you can request a change. Rated Driving will endeavour to rebook you with a new instructor, especially if there’s a material issue.
What payment options are available for driving lessons with Rated Driving?
Rated Driving offers flexible payment options, including pay-as-you-go for standard lessons with no deposit or upfront cost. For intensive courses, you can spread the cost with interest-free payments through Klarna.
Are there any discounts for booking driving lessons in bulk?
Yes, learners can save up to £110 by purchasing driving lessons in bulk packages. Many learners start with a couple of hours and then opt for 10 or 20-hour packages to unlock discounts.
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].
