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Driving Lessons in Catford
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Catford instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Catford 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 Catford 🙏
See why our learners in Catford love Rated Driving ♥️
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Confident Behind the Wheel in Catford
From the first lesson in Catford, I knew I was in good hands. My instructor was so helpful and gave me all the tools to succeed. I passed first time!
Liam J
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My Experience Learning to Drive in Catford
I took my driving lessons with Rated Driving in Catford. 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 S
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Passed First Time in Catford – Thanks to Rated Driving!
Rated Driving in Catford made learning to drive a breeze. The instructor helped me stay calm and focused, and I passed first time. Great service!
Isla S
Learning to drive in Catford
Catford 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 Catford, so you’ll know what to expect and how to handle each section without second guessing.
Learning to drive in Catford offers a fantastic opportunity to gain confidence and essential skills on the road. This vibrant South East London district, the administrative heart of the London Borough of Lewisham, provides a diverse range of driving conditions perfect for learners. Rated Driving is your ideal partner for navigating the streets of Catford, offering expert instruction tailored to your needs.
Catford’s unique blend of urban and suburban environments makes it an excellent place for driving lessons. You’ll gain invaluable experience on main thoroughfares like the A205 South Circular Road, mastering complex junctions and roundabouts that are common in the area. Quieter residential streets around areas such as Rushey Green and Catford Bridge offer ideal settings for practicing fundamental manoeuvres like parallel parking and three-point turns, allowing you to build confidence at your own pace. Rated Driving instructors are intimately familiar with these local roads, ensuring you receive targeted practice on routes that will prepare you thoroughly for your driving test.
Beyond the practicalities of learning to drive, Catford boasts several appealing local attractions. After a productive driving lesson, you could unwind with a stroll through Mountsfield Park, a beautiful green space with picturesque ponds and playgrounds. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring the bustling Catford Broadway Market, where you can find a wide array of fresh produce and unique goods. Don’t forget to spot the iconic Catford Cat, a giant fibreglass sculpture that’s a prominent landmark above the entrance to the Catford Centre. For a dose of arts and culture, the Broadway Theatre, an impressive Art Deco building, offers a variety of performances and events.
When it comes to taking your practical driving test, the nearest centre to Catford is the Hither Green Driving Test Centre. Located at 42-44 Ennersdale Road, SE13 6JD, it’s just a short drive from Catford, and Rated Driving instructors are well-versed in the test routes commonly used there, including roads like Canadian Avenue and Brownhill Road. You can find more information about booking your practical test on the official GOV.UK website: Find a driving test centre. For your theory test, the closest centre is in Bromley. You can book your theory test and find more details on the GOV.UK website: Find a theory test centre.
Learning to drive in Catford with Rated Driving means you’re not just learning to pass a test; you’re gaining the skills and confidence to navigate real-world driving scenarios in a familiar environment. Our experienced instructors provide personalised guidance, ensuring you’re well-prepared for anything the roads of Catford, and beyond, might throw at you. The varied terrain, from the gentle slopes around Catford Bridge to the busy shopping districts, provides excellent preparation for diverse driving conditions.
Ready to embark on your driving journey in Catford? Contact Rated Driving today to book your driving lessons and take the first step towards gaining your independence on the road.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Catford
Hither Green (London) Driving Test Centre
42-44 Ennersdale Road, Lewisham, Hither Green, Greater London, SE13 6JD
Bromley (London) Driving Test Centre
121 Burnt Ash Lane, Bromley, Greater London, BR1 5AB
Sidcup (London) Driving Test Centre
2 Crayside, Five Arches Business Estate, Maidstone Road, Sidcup, Greater London, DA14 5AG
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 Catford for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Catford, two stations serve the area: Catford and Catford Bridge. Catford station offers Thameslink services, connecting from central London stations like Blackfriars and St Pancras International, and extending to Sevenoaks via Swanley. If you’re coming from areas served by Southeastern, Catford Bridge station is your destination, with services from London Charing Cross and London Cannon Street via Lewisham.
To reach Catford from nearby towns, consider connecting to these main lines. For example, from areas south of Catford, you might take a Southeastern service to Lewisham and then change for Catford Bridge. From areas north, Thameslink services directly reach Catford.
The best times to travel to Catford are generally during Off-Peak hours, outside of weekday rush hours (typically 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM) and anytime on weekends, for potentially cheaper fares and less crowded trains to Catford. Avoid peak times for a more relaxed journey to Catford. You can book train tickets via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Catford, public transport is efficient. From Lewisham, the 47 bus to The Catford Centre or the 136 bus to Catford Bus Garage are direct options, taking around 6 minutes. The 185 bus also connects Lewisham to Catford. From Bromley, the 320 bus from Bromley Magistrates Court or Bromley South Station will get you to Catford Road/Lewisham Town Hall in about 16-26 minutes. The 336 bus also serves Catford from Locksbottom and Bromley. If you’re coming from Forest Hill, the 185 bus from Forest Hill Station/London Road reaches The Catford Broadway in approximately 12 minutes.
For optimal travel to Catford, aim for off-peak hours, generally outside of weekday mornings (7 AM – 10 AM) and evenings (4 PM – 7 PM) to avoid heavy traffic. Bus fares are a flat £1.75 per journey, with unlimited transfers within one hour using the Hopper fare. You can purchase tickets using an Oyster card, Travelcard, or contactless payment. For bus tickets, explore options on Transport for London, Trainline, or National Express.
Fun Fact About Catford
The name Catford likely comes from a ford across the River Ravensbourne frequented by wild cats. A fun fact is that Catford claims to be home to the first British curry house.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Catford. 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 Catford driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Catford 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 Catford’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 Catford?
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 Catford’s roads inside out - so you can learn faster and pass with confidence.
- Local Experts, Ready to Go:
Over 341 DVSA-registered driving instructors across London including Catford, Fullwell Cross, Fairlop & Cranbrook.
- 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 Catford? 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
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WHAT CAN I GET
Catford 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 Catford
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Catford who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Catford
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Catford who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Catford
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Catford ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Catford.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Catford today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover Near Catford, London
Are you looking for the top driving lessons in nearby locations? Rated Driving also offers driving lessons in nearby areas, including:
Driving lessons in Catford FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions in Catford, and how will Rated Driving prepare me for them?
Catford offers a diverse range of driving conditions, from the busy main roads like A205 South Circular and A21 to quieter residential streets. Your Rated Driving instructor, with their local expertise, will guide you through navigating areas such as the Catford one-way system, dealing with bus lanes, and handling pedestrian crossings, ensuring you gain confidence in all scenarios.
Which driving test centres are most convenient for learners in Catford, and how does Rated Driving help with test preparation?
The nearest practical driving test centre for Catford learners is typically Hither Green, located at 42 Chiltonian Ind Estate SE12 0TX, which is close to the A205 and A20. Rated Driving instructors are familiar with the local test routes and will help you practice specific manoeuvres and road conditions you might encounter, increasing your chances of a first-time pass.
How do I book driving lessons in Catford with Rated Driving, and what payment options are available?
Booking driving lessons with Rated Driving in Catford is straightforward. You can book online anytime or call us to get started. We offer flexible pay-as-you-go options, meaning there’s no deposit or upfront cost for standard lessons.
What advice does Rated Driving offer for complete beginner drivers in Catford?
For beginners in Catford, our instructors focus on building confidence from your very first lesson. You’ll start in quieter areas to master basic car controls and manoeuvres before gradually progressing to busier roads. Our structured approach ensures you learn at your own pace, aiming to get you test-ready efficiently.
What is Rated Driving’s cancellation policy for lessons in Catford?
We understand that plans can change. You can easily cancel or reschedule your driving lessons in Catford using our app, provided you give at least 48 hours’ notice. This policy allows for flexibility while ensuring fair scheduling for both learners and instructors.
Can I get a refund if I’m not satisfied with my driving lessons in Catford?
Rated Driving offers a money-back guarantee. If you are not happy after your first lesson in Catford, simply let us know, and we will refund you. Terms and conditions apply, ensuring you have peace of mind when starting your learning journey with us.
Are there any discounts for booking multiple driving lessons in Catford with Rated Driving?
Yes, learners in Catford can save money by purchasing lessons in bulk. You can save up to £110 by opting for our discounted packages, which are designed to provide excellent value for your driving education.
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].
