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Driving Lessons in Upnor
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Upnor instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Upnor 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.
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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 Upnor 🙏
See why our learners in Upnor love Rated Driving ♥️
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My Experience Learning to Drive in Upnor
I never thought I’d enjoy driving, but Rated Driving in Upnor changed that. Great instructor, great tips, and a big confidence boost – I passed with ease!
Jake H
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Unforgettable Driving Journey in Upnor
Rated Driving in Upnor made learning to drive a breeze. The instructor helped me stay calm and focused, and I passed first time. Great service!
Amelia X
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Top-Notch Driving Lessons in Upnor
Learning to drive in Upnor with Rated Driving was the best decision. I felt safe and supported throughout. Highly recommend them to anyone wanting to pass with confidence!
Emily X
Learning to drive in Upnor
Upnor 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 Upnor, so you’ll know what to expect and how to handle each section without second guessing.
Learning to drive in Upnor offers a unique and advantageous experience for aspiring motorists. With Rated Driving, you’ll discover that this charming village provides an ideal backdrop for developing essential driving skills, combining tranquil residential areas with access to more complex road conditions. The convenience and local expertise offered by Rated Driving instructors in Upnor are unparalleled, ensuring a tailored learning journey that boosts confidence and leads to success.
Upnor’s local roads present a diverse environment perfect for driving lessons. You’ll gain confidence navigating the quieter residential streets within Upnor itself, mastering basic manoeuvres and clutch control without the immediate pressure of heavy traffic. As your skills progress, your instructor will guide you onto busier routes, such as the A2, which is easily accessible from Upnor, allowing you to practice dual carriageway driving and higher speeds. You’ll also encounter various junctions and roundabouts in nearby areas like Strood and Rochester, preparing you for a wide range of real-world driving scenarios. This gradual exposure to different road types ensures a comprehensive learning experience right here in Upnor.
Beyond the practicalities of learning, Upnor boasts several local attractions that add to its appeal. Imagine finishing a successful driving lesson and then taking a relaxing stroll around the historic Upnor Castle, an Elizabethan artillery fort offering stunning views across the River Medway. This picturesque setting provides a perfect way to unwind and reflect on your progress. You could also explore the nearby Historic Chatham Dockyard, a fascinating glimpse into naval history, or even visit one of Upnor’s charming local pubs for a well-deserved break. These local landmarks not only make Upnor an appealing place to learn but also offer excellent opportunities to practice independent driving and navigation once you’re ready.
When it comes to the practical driving test, the nearest centre to Upnor is the Gillingham Driving Test Centre, located at Unit 1, Astra Park, Courteney Road, Gillingham, Kent, ME8 0RZ. Your Rated Driving instructor will be familiar with the test routes in and around Gillingham, providing invaluable insights and practice on the roads you’re likely to encounter during your test. For your theory test, the closest centre is the Chatham Theory Test Centre, situated at 14-16 High Street, Chatham, Kent, ME4 4EP. Both test centres are conveniently located, making the journey from Upnor straightforward.
Choosing to learn with Rated Driving in Upnor means benefiting from local expertise, a varied driving environment, and the convenience of nearby test centres. Our instructors are dedicated to providing high-quality, personalised lessons that cater to your individual needs, ensuring you become a safe and confident driver. The unique blend of quiet village roads and accessible main routes in and around Upnor creates an ideal learning ground for all aspiring drivers.
Ready to embark on your driving journey in Upnor? 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 Upnor
Gillingham Driving Test Centre
Unit 1, Astra Park, Courteney Road, Gillingham, Kent, ME8 0RZ
Maidstone Driving Test Centre
Unit 1 North Court, South Park Business Village, Armstrong Road, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 6JZ
Herne Bay 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 Upnor for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
To reach Upnor for your driving lessons via public transport, your primary destination by train will be Strood or Rochester. Southeastern and Thameslink services connect to these stations. For instance, from London, Southeastern operates trains to Rochester every 30 minutes.
Once at Strood, which is approximately 2 miles from Upnor, you’ll need to take a bus or taxi. The 191 bus service from Strood’s Post Office directly to Liberty Park in Upnor takes about 22 minutes and runs hourly. From Rochester, the 197 bus service to Castle in Upnor takes around 13 minutes and departs every four hours. Other bus lines serving Upnor include the 140, 151, 190, 193, and 700.
For the best travel experience to Upnor, aim for off-peak hours, typically outside Monday-Friday rush hours (7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM) and anytime on weekends, as this can be less busy. You can book train tickets via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Upnor, public transport offers viable options from nearby towns. From Strood, the Arriva Kent & Surrey 191 bus service provides a direct route to Liberty Park in Upnor, taking approximately 22 minutes. This service departs hourly. Alternatively, from Rochester, the Arriva Kent & Surrey bus service to Chattenden Lane takes about 8 minutes. For those coming from Gillingham, the Nu-Venture 600 bus route offers a direct service to Church in Upnor, with a journey time of around 18 minutes, operating five times a week on weekdays. The 197 bus service, operated by ASD Coaches and Nu-Venture, also connects Chatham, Rochester, and Strood to Upnor, stopping at Upnor Pier and Upnor Castle.
To avoid potential delays, it’s generally best to travel to Upnor outside of typical weekday peak hours (e.g., 7 AM – 9 AM and 4 PM – 6 PM). Bus tickets can be purchased directly from the bus operator, or you can explore options on Trainline or Arriva UK Bus.
Fun Fact About Upnor
Upnor, a picturesque Kentish village, is home to Upnor Castle, an Elizabethan artillery fort built to defend Chatham Dockyard. Despite its purpose, it famously failed to repel the Dutch Raid on the Medway in 1667, a humiliating defeat for the Royal Navy. Interestingly, after its military role diminished, it became England’s leading gunpowder magazine, even storing more supplies than the Tower of London by 1691.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Upnor. 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 Upnor driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Upnor 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 Upnor’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 Upnor?
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 Upnor’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 Upnor, Eynsford, New Ash Green & Meopham.
- 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 Upnor? 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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WHAT CAN I GET
Upnor 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 Upnor
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Upnor who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Upnor
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Upnor who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Upnor
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Upnor ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Upnor.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Upnor today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover Near Upnor, 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 Upnor FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions like in Upnor for learners?
Upnor offers a varied environment for learning to drive, from quieter residential roads perfect for beginners to more challenging routes leading towards Rochester and Gillingham. You’ll gain experience on different road types, including those around Upnor Castle and along the River Medway, helping you build confidence in various traffic situations.
Where are the nearest driving test centres to Upnor?
The closest practical driving test centre to Upnor is likely to be in Gillingham, located at Unit 1, Astra Park, Courteney Road, ME8 0RZ. Other nearby test centres in Kent include Maidstone and Sidcup. Your Rated Driving instructor will help you become familiar with potential test routes in these areas.
How do I book driving lessons in Upnor with Rated Driving?
Booking driving lessons in Upnor with Rated Driving is straightforward. Simply visit our website, enter your postcode, and you can find prices for both automatic and manual driving lessons. You can then book online 24/7 and be connected with a local instructor.
What should a beginner driver in Upnor expect from their first lesson?
Your first driving lesson in Upnor will typically focus on getting comfortable with the car’s controls in a quiet area. You’ll learn the cockpit drill, how to move off and stop smoothly, and basic steering techniques. Your instructor will ensure you feel at ease and build a solid foundation for your learning journey.
What payment options are available for driving lessons in Upnor with Rated Driving?
Rated Driving offers flexible payment options for your driving lessons in Upnor. You can choose to pay as you go for individual lessons, or save money by purchasing lessons in bulk. There is no deposit or upfront cost required for standard driving lessons.
Can I change my driving instructor if I’m not happy with them in Upnor?
Rated Driving aims to ensure you have the best learning experience. If you encounter a material issue with your allocated instructor, as judged by Rated Driving, we will endeavour to rebook you with a new instructor. We also offer a 100% Money Back Guarantee for the first hour of your initial lesson if you’re not satisfied.
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].
