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Driving Lessons in Friern Barnet
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Friern Barnet instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Friern Barnet 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 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 Friern Barnet 🙏
See why our learners in Friern Barnet love Rated Driving ♥️
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Confident Behind the Wheel in Friern Barnet
I took my driving lessons with Rated Driving in Friern Barnet. 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!
Sophie A
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Why I Recommend Driving Lessons in Friern Barnet
Learning to drive in Friern Barnet with Rated Driving was the best decision. I felt safe and supported throughout. Highly recommend them to anyone wanting to pass with confidence!
Liam G
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Stress-Free Driving Lessons in Friern Barnet
Rated Driving in Friern Barnet 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 Friern Barnet
Friern Barnet 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 Friern Barnet, so you’ll know what to expect and how to handle each section without second guessing.
Learning to drive in Friern Barnet offers a fantastic opportunity to gain confidence and essential skills on a diverse range of roads. This charming North London suburb, part of the London Borough of Barnet, provides an ideal environment for new drivers, blending quieter residential streets with more challenging main roads. Rated Driving is your go-to provider for driving lessons in Friern Barnet, offering comprehensive instruction tailored to your needs.
One of the key benefits of taking driving lessons in Friern Barnet is the sheer variety of local driving conditions you’ll encounter. Your instructor will guide you through essential local routes, including Friern Barnet Lane and Oakleigh Road North, perfect for mastering basic manoeuvres and building initial confidence. As you progress, you’ll tackle busier routes like Colney Hatch Lane and Friern Barnet Road, which feature challenging junctions and mini-roundabouts, crucial for developing your awareness and decision-making skills. You’ll even get to practice on sections of the North Circular Road (A406), an important arterial route that will prepare you for higher-speed driving and navigating complex traffic flows.
Beyond the practicalities of learning, Friern Barnet boasts several appealing local attractions that make the area a pleasant place to learn. After a productive driving lesson, you could unwind with a stroll through Friary Park, a lovely green space offering a peaceful escape. For those interested in local history, the area is home to the former Friern Barnet Workhouse, now converted into luxury apartments, offering a glimpse into the past. You might also find yourself driving past the North Middlesex Golf Club, or perhaps even near Alexandra Palace, a prominent landmark not far from Friern Barnet, providing a sense of the wider London landscape you’ll soon be confidently navigating.
When it comes to taking your practical driving test, learners in Friern Barnet typically use the Barnet Driving Test Centre. This centre is conveniently located at Raydean House, 15 Western Parade, Barnet, Greater London, EN5 1AH, and is easily accessible from Friern Barnet. You can find more information about this test centre on the GOV.UK website: Barnet Driving Test Centre. For your theory test, while Friern Barnet doesn’t have its own dedicated centre, nearby options include the North Finchley Theory Test Centre and the Southgate Theory Test Centre. You can locate your nearest theory test centre and book your test via the GOV.UK service: Find a Theory Test Centre.
Rated Driving’s experienced and DVSA-approved instructors know Friern Barnet’s roads inside out, ensuring you receive the most relevant and effective training for your area. They are dedicated to helping you become a confident and safe driver, navigating everything from quiet residential streets to bustling main roads with ease. With their expert guidance, you’ll be well-prepared for your driving test and ready to enjoy the freedom of the open road.
Don’t delay your journey to driving independence. Take the wheel and book your driving lessons in Friern Barnet with Rated Driving today, and start your path to becoming a confident driver in this vibrant North London community.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Friern Barnet
Barnet Driving Test Centre
Raydean House, 15 Western Parade, Barnet, Greater London, EN5 1AH
Mill Hill Driving Test Centre
Unit 9, Grannard Business Centre, Bunns Lane, Mill Hill, Greater London, NW7 2DQ
Wood Green Driving Test Centre
Wood Green Crown Court, Woodhall House, Lordship Lane, Wood Green, Greater London, N22 5LF
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 Friern Barnet for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Friern Barnet, public transport offers convenient access. If you’re coming from nearby towns like New Barnet, direct Great Northern services run to New Southgate, a short distance from Friern Barnet, with journeys taking around 4 minutes. Thameslink also serves this route.
From central London, including areas around King’s Cross St. Pancras, you can take the Piccadilly Line tube to Arnos Grove, which is near Friern Barnet. This journey typically takes about 21 minutes. Alternatively, the Northern Line also serves stations close to Friern Barnet, such as Woodside Park and Finchley Central.
For the best travel experience to Friern Barnet, aim for off-peak hours. These are generally weekdays between 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM, and after 6:45 PM. Weekends, particularly before noon and after 6:15 PM, are also quieter. Avoid peak times, which are Monday to Friday from 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, as services to Friern Barnet will be busier and fares higher. You can book train tickets via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Friern Barnet, public transport offers convenient access. From Southgate, the 382 bus provides a direct route to Friern Barnet Town Hall, taking approximately 25 minutes and running every 15 minutes. If you’re coming from East Finchley, the 234 bus is a direct option to Constable Close, with a journey time of around 21 minutes, departing every 10 minutes. From Finchley Central Station, the 382 bus also goes directly to Colney Hatch Lane in Friern Barnet, taking about 14 minutes and running every 20 minutes. East Barnet is connected to Friern Barnet via the 382 bus, reaching Friern Barnet Town Hall in about 17 minutes, with services every 15 minutes. From New Barnet, the 234 bus offers a direct service to Constable Close, taking approximately 10 minutes.
To avoid peak hour congestion in Friern Barnet and surrounding areas, aim to travel on weekdays between 8:30 AM and 3:00 PM, or after 6:00 PM. Weekends are generally quieter before 11:00 AM and after 6:00 PM. Bus fares in London are cashless, so use an Oyster card, Travelcard, or contactless payment. You can purchase bus tickets and top up Oyster cards at Tube stations, Oyster Ticket Stops in newsagents, or online. For more information on bus tickets and routes, visit Transport for London or explore options on Omio and FlixBus.
Fun Fact About Friern Barnet
Friern Barnet, originally “Frerenbarnet” in the 12th century, was named after the “freren” (brothers) of the Knights of the Order of St John of Jerusalem who owned an estate there. A fun fact: Friern Barnet Town Hall, built during WWII, has a perfectly preserved air-raid shelter in its basement. Learn more about Friern Barnet.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Friern Barnet. 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 Friern Barnet driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Friern Barnet 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 Friern Barnet’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 Friern Barnet?
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 Friern Barnet’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 Friern Barnet, South Acton, Soho & Piccadilly Circus.
- 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 Friern Barnet? 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
Friern Barnet 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.
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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 Friern Barnet
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Friern Barnet who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Friern Barnet
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Friern Barnet who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Friern Barnet
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Friern Barnet ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Friern Barnet.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Friern Barnet today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover Near Friern-barnet, 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 Friern Barnet FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions in Friern Barnet?
Friern Barnet, a suburban area within the London Borough of Barnet, presents a mix of driving conditions. You’ll encounter busy intersections, such as the one at Colney Hatch Lane, Woodhouse Road, and Friern Barnet Road, which can be challenging during peak hours. The area also features residential streets and main roads like Friern Barnet Lane, where recent road safety consultations have proposed measures like 20mph zones and upgraded pedestrian crossings to improve safety.
Where are the nearest driving test centres to Friern Barnet?
While Friern Barnet itself doesn’t have a dedicated driving test centre, several are accessible nearby. The closest practical test centres include Barnet (Raydean House, 15-17 Western Parade, EN5 1AD), Borehamwood, Mill Hill, and Hendon. Your Rated Driving instructor will help you become familiar with the routes and conditions around these centres.
How do I book driving lessons in Friern Barnet with Rated Driving?
Booking driving lessons with Rated Driving in Friern Barnet is straightforward. You can submit your booking directly on our website or through the Rated Driving app. We aim to connect you with a local, DVSA-registered instructor in as little as 10 minutes, offering flexible scheduling and pay-as-you-go options.
What advice do you have for beginner drivers in Friern Barnet?
For beginner drivers in Friern Barnet, it’s crucial to get comfortable with varied road types. Your instructor will guide you through navigating local roundabouts, such as those found on main roads, and managing traffic around areas like the Friern Barnet Town Hall. Practising in different conditions, including residential streets and busier routes, will build your confidence and skills.
What are Rated Driving’s policies on refunds and lesson payments?
Rated Driving offers a “100% Money Back Guarantee” for the first hour of your initial driving lesson if you’re not satisfied, provided you contact us within 24 hours. For standard lessons, there’s no deposit or upfront cost required, allowing you to pay as you go. You can also save up to £110 by purchasing lessons in bulk.
Can I change my driving instructor with Rated Driving in Friern Barnet?
Yes, if you find your assigned instructor isn’t the perfect fit, you can easily request a different one through the Rated Driving app after your first lesson at no charge. If more than one lesson has been taken, a £100 admin fee applies. We strive to match you with a local instructor who suits your learning style.
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].
