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Driving Lessons in Chatham
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Chatham instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Chatham 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 Chatham 🙏
See why our learners in Chatham love Rated Driving ♥️
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My Experience Learning to Drive in Chatham
I took my driving lessons with Rated Driving in Chatham. 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!
Noah T
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Why I Recommend Driving Lessons in Chatham
Rated Driving in Chatham made learning to drive a breeze. The instructor helped me stay calm and focused, and I passed first time. Great service!
Freya J
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Friendly and Professional Instructors in Chatham
Learning to drive in Chatham with Rated Driving was the best decision. I felt safe and supported throughout. Highly recommend them to anyone wanting to pass with confidence!
Noah Y
Learning to drive in Chatham
Chatham 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 Chatham, 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, Chatham offers an excellent environment to master the roads, and with Rated Driving, you’ll be in capable hands every step of the way.
Chatham provides a diverse range of driving conditions, making it an ideal place to gain comprehensive experience. You’ll navigate the bustling town centre, where you can practice clutch control and observation skills in stop-start traffic. Your Rated Driving instructor will guide you through the inner ring road and the flyover, which opened in 1989, helping you build confidence on busier routes. Quieter residential streets, such as those near Luton Road or Maidstone Road, offer perfect opportunities to practice basic manoeuvres like parallel parking and three-point turns in a relaxed setting. As your skills progress, you’ll tackle more challenging roads like the A2 (Chatham Hill), which is the main east-west highway through Chatham, and even gain experience on routes leading to the M2 motorway. This varied exposure ensures you’re well-prepared for any driving scenario.
Beyond the practicalities, Chatham is a town rich in history and attractions, offering plenty to explore once you’ve passed your test. You could take a leisurely drive to The Historic Dockyard Chatham, a preserved Royal Naval dockyard with historic ships and a working ropery. Or perhaps visit Fort Amherst Heritage Trust, an 18th-century fort with tunnels and stunning views of the River Medway. For a dose of local history, Upnor Castle, an Elizabethan fortress, is also nearby. Imagine the freedom of driving yourself to these fascinating landmarks in Chatham!
When it comes to the official tests, Chatham is conveniently located. The nearest practical driving test centre is in Gillingham, which is part of the Medway conurbation alongside Chatham. You can find more information about practical test centres on the official GOV.UK website: Find a driving test centre. For your theory test, the Chatham Theory Test Centre is located at Pearson Professional Centre, 14-16 High Street, Chatham, Kent, ME4 4EP. It’s easily accessible by public transport, with Chatham train station just an 8-minute walk away and various bus stops even closer. You can find more details about the theory test centre on the GOV.UK website: Find a theory test centre.
Rated Driving understands the unique driving landscape of Chatham and tailors lessons to ensure you become a confident and safe driver. Their experienced instructors are familiar with the local roads and test routes, giving you the best possible chance of passing your test on the first attempt. Learning to drive in Chatham with Rated Driving means you’ll not only gain essential skills but also become comfortable navigating your local area.
Ready to embark on your driving journey in Chatham? Don’t delay your independence any longer. Book your driving lessons in Chatham with Rated Driving today and take the first step towards unlocking the freedom of the open road.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Chatham
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
Herne Bay Practical Driving Test Centre
Altria Business Park, Margate Road, Thanet Way, Herne Bay, Kent, CT6 6GZ
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 Chatham for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Chatham, public transport is a convenient option. If you’re coming from nearby towns, Southeastern and Thameslink services frequently serve Chatham.
From Rochester or Gillingham, direct Southeastern and Thameslink trains run regularly to Chatham, with journey times as short as 3-4 minutes. For example, Southeastern operates trains from Gillingham (Kent) to Chatham every 15 minutes.
If you’re travelling from Sittingbourne, Southeastern trains offer direct services to Chatham, typically taking around 12-18 minutes. From Maidstone, Southeastern trains connect to Chatham, though some routes may involve a change and take around 25-45 minutes.
For the best experience travelling to Chatham, aim for Off-Peak hours, generally outside weekday rush hours (7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM). Weekends are also typically less busy. You can book train tickets via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Chatham, public transport is a convenient option. Arriva operates numerous services into Chatham, a central hub for Medway. From Gillingham, the Arriva 1, 2, and 100 services frequently run to Chatham Waterfront Bus Station. If you’re coming from Hempstead, the Arriva 116 service will take you directly to Chatham. For those in Walderslade, the Arriva 176 bus offers a direct route to Chatham station. From Cliffe, the Arriva 133/633 services connect to Chatham.
Stagecoach also provides routes to Chatham, including the Stagecoach Express M2 from Canterbury Bus Station, stopping at Chatham before heading to North Greenwich.
To avoid traffic, aim for off-peak travel. Weekday mornings (7 AM – 9 AM) and evenings (4 PM – 6 PM) generally see higher traffic in Chatham. For bus tickets, you can purchase them directly from the bus operator or use platforms like Trainline or Arriva UK Bus. You can also explore options on Busbud or National Express for longer journeys to Chatham.
Fun Fact About Chatham
Chatham, Kent, boasts a rich maritime history, growing around its Royal Dockyard established by Queen Elizabeth I in 1568. A fun fact: renowned novelist Charles Dickens spent his formative years in Chatham, describing them as the happiest of his life, and the area influenced much of his work. Learn more about Chatham.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Chatham. 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 Chatham driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Chatham 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 Chatham’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 Chatham?
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 Chatham’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 Chatham, Barming, Dartford & Maidstone.
- 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 Chatham? Whether you prefer automatic or manual, there are plenty of flexible lesson options available. Simply type in your postcode and submit your enquiry to be matched with a expert local DVSA-registered driving instructor in your area.
🤔 How many driving lessons will I need?
The DVSA says most people need about 40 hours of professional lessons, plus private practice. We'll help tailor your schedule to build confidence efficiently.
- The DVSA recommends about 45 hours of professional lessons and 22 hours of private practice for most learners.
- Some learners feel confident sooner, others need more time.
- Your instructor will monitor your progress and advise when you’re test-ready.
- Practice regularly for the best results.
- Everyone learns at their own pace.
Some learners feel test-ready in 30 hours. Others need more time to build confidence behind the wheel. What really matters isn’t the total - it’s the consistency.
The more often you drive, the more natural it becomes. Combining quality instructor lessons with regular practice builds confidence quickly.
Every learner progresses at their own pace, and that’s perfectly normal. Your instructor will adapt to your comfort level and guide you through each step with patience.
🧐 How to prepare for your first driving lesson
Getting ready for your first driving lesson is an exciting step - and a bit of preparation can help you feel more confident and relaxed on the day. Here’s a simple guide to help you make the most of it:
1. Check Your Provisional Licence
Before your lesson, make sure you have a valid provisional driving licence. Your instructor will need to see it to confirm you’re legally allowed to drive.
2. Get Familiar with the Basics
Take a few minutes to learn the basic layout of a car - the pedals, gear stick, steering wheel, and mirrors. Watching a short video or reading a beginner’s guide can help you feel more prepared.
3. Choose Comfortable Clothing
Wear clothes that allow you to move freely and flat-soled shoes that give you good control of the pedals. Avoid anything bulky or restrictive.
4. Bring the Essentials
Have your provisional licence with you, along with glasses or contact lenses if you need them to drive. A bottle of water is also a good idea to stay hydrated.
5. Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Feeling well-rested will help you stay focused and alert throughout your lesson.
6. Brush Up on the Highway Code
A quick review of key road signs, speed limits, and basic driving rules can give you a boost in confidence before you get behind the wheel. [download The Highway Code 2025 PDF]
7. Keep Your Expectations Realistic
Your first lesson is all about getting familiar with the car and starting to build your skills. Don’t worry about getting everything perfect - take it one step at a time.
With the right preparation and a calm mindset, you’ll be off to a great start.
🙏 What to expect on your first driving lesson
Your first driving lesson is a key milestone - it's where everything begins. The goal is to help you feel comfortable, introduce you to the car, and give you your first taste of driving. Here’s what typically happens during your first session:
1. Meet Your Instructor
You’ll meet your DVSA-registered driving instructor, who will check your provisional licence and have a quick chat about any experience or knowledge you already have.
2. Go Through the Cockpit Drill (DSSSM)
Before driving, you'll go through a quick safety routine to get set up properly:
- Doors - Make sure all doors are securely closed.
- Seat - Adjust your seat so you can reach the pedals comfortably.
- Steering - Adjust the steering wheel to suit your position.
- Seatbelt - Buckle up for safety.
- Mirrors - Position your mirrors for a clear view around the car.
3. Learn the Basic Car Controls
Your instructor will show you the key controls, including:
- Accelerator, brake, and clutch (if you're learning in a manual)
- Gear stick, handbrake, and indicators
- Other essentials like lights and wipers
4. Practice Moving Off and Stopping
You’ll start with the basics:
- How to start the engine safely
- Checking mirrors and blind spots
- Moving off smoothly and bringing the car to a controlled stop
5. Drive on Quiet Roads
If you're ready, your instructor may take you to a quiet area to practice simple driving skills like steering, gear changes, and stopping calmly.
6. Feedback and Next Steps
At the end of the lesson, your instructor will talk you through what went well and what to work on next time. This feedback helps you build confidence and track your progress.
Top Tips from our Experienced DVSA Approved Driving Instructor Experts
Q: How do I handle roundabouts without panicking?
"Stay calm by following the MSPSL routine (Mirrors, Signal, Position, Speed, Look) and always look right on approach. Practice with mini roundabouts first, then build up to larger ones using diagrams and videos for support."
Reginos Theodotou
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor for 20 years.
Q: What’s the correct way to check mirrors and signal?
"Check your mirrors before any change in direction, speed, or overtaking - act safely on what you see. Only signal if necessary, and make sure it’s correctly timed and clear."
Mali Summers
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: How do I stay calm before and during my driving lessons?
"Take deep breaths, remind yourself it's okay to make mistakes, and trust your instructor."
Shorif Kazi
DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: Is it easier to pass your driving test in an automatic car?
"Yes it much easier to pass in an automatic than a manual car. It’s especially effective for nervous drivers."
Mari Wright
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: What's the best way to learn clutch control?
"Practice clutch control in a quiet area by finding the bite point in first gear with light gas, checking all around (including blind spots), then releasing the handbrake. Read More
Mali Summers
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: Why do some people choose automatic over manual?
"Some people choose automatic because it's quicker to learn, less stressful, and easier to practise if they have access to an automatic car.
Read More
Mari Wright
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: What should I do if I make a mistake while driving?
"Stay calm, don’t panic - your instructor is there to help. Just learn from it and keep going."
Shorif Kazi
DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: How do I stop stalling at junction and roundabout?
"To avoid stalling at junctions and roundabouts, plan ahead, use the correct gear and speed, and anticipate when you’ll need to move.Read More
Mali Summers
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: How do I handle roundabouts without panicking?
"Knowledge, understanding when to go and when to wait."
Graham Morgan
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor for 15 years.
Q: How can I build my confidence if I’m a nervous driver?
"Practice regularly, start in quiet areas, and focus on small wins each lesson."
Shorif Kazi
DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: What do most people fail their driving test on?
"Interactions with others, junctions, meeting and roundabouts."
Graham Morgan
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor for 15 years.
Q: How many lessons does it really take to pass?
"It depends on the person, but most people need around 40–50 hours with a qualified instructor I have achieved 32 to 36 hours"
Shorif Kazi
DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: Can I drive a manual car if I pass in an automatic?
"If you pass in an automatic, you CANNOT unfortunately drive a manual car."
Mari Wright
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: What’s the number one mistake learners make?
"Trying to hard to be perfect. Mistakes are part of life."
Graham Morgan
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor for 15 years.
🏆 Pass Guarantee
Pass first time or they will refund you your £23! See test fee back! T&Cs apply
HAVEN'T PASSED YOUR THEORY TEST YET?
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- 🥳 97% of people pass using the app
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Start studying now, Download today.
1600+ DVSA-Registered Driving Instructors
Excellent Learner Driver Reviews
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WHAT CAN I GET
Chatham 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 Chatham
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Chatham who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Chatham
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Chatham who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Chatham
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Chatham ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Chatham.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Chatham today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover Near Chatham, 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 Chatham FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions in Chatham for learners?
Chatham offers a diverse environment for learning to drive, featuring a mix of quiet residential streets ideal for beginners and busier main roads like the A2 and A229 for more advanced practice. Our local instructors are adept at guiding you through various scenarios, including the challenging roundabouts near Chatham Maritime and the Historic Dockyard area.
Where are the nearest driving test centres to Chatham?
The primary practical driving test centre for learners in Chatham is located in Gillingham at Unit 1, Astra Park, Courteney Road, ME8 0RZ. Another nearby option is the Maidstone Driving Test Centre. For theory tests, the Chatham Theory Test Centre is conveniently situated on the High Street.
How can I book driving lessons in Chatham with Rated Driving?
Booking driving lessons with Rated Driving in Chatham is straightforward. You can book online 24/7 or call us to get connected with a local, DVSA-approved instructor in as little as 10 minutes. Our award-winning app allows you to easily manage your lessons, payments, and communication with your instructor.
What advice do you have for beginner drivers in Chatham?
For your first driving lessons in Chatham, focus on getting comfortable with basic car controls in quieter residential areas, such as those near Luton Road or Maidstone Road. Ensure you have a provisional licence and wear comfortable clothing and flat-soled shoes. Rated Driving’s instructors are experienced in building confidence gradually, preparing you for busier roads as your skills develop.
What is Rated Driving’s refund policy for lessons in Chatham?
Rated Driving offers a “100% Money Back Guarantee” for the first hour of your initial driving lesson if you are not satisfied; simply contact us within 24 hours for a full refund and rebooking with a new instructor. For subsequent lessons, payments made within the last 30 days can be refunded based on an agreement between you and your instructor.
Can I change my driving instructor with Rated Driving in Chatham?
Yes, if you feel your driving instructor isn’t the right fit, you can request a different instructor through the Rated Driving app. While a material issue with your current instructor is typically required for a change, we will do our best to connect you with a suitable replacement.
What payment options are available for driving lessons in Chatham?
Rated Driving offers flexible payment options for driving lessons in Chatham, including pay-as-you-go and block booking discounts. There is no deposit or upfront cost required for standard driving lessons. Learners can save up to £110 by purchasing lessons in bulk. For intensive courses, you can spread the cost with interest-free payments through Klarna.
How does Rated Driving ensure I get a local instructor in Chatham?
Rated Driving has a network of over 1,600 DVSA-registered driving instructors, many of whom are local to Chatham and familiar with the area’s specific driving test routes and conditions. This local expertise ensures you receive relevant training tailored to navigating Chatham’s roads confidently.
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].
