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Driving Lessons in Islington
Learn to drive confidently in Islington 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.
♥️ Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Islington instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
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Learning to drive in Islington
Islington 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 Islington, so you’ll know what to expect and how to handle each section without second guessing.
Learning to drive in Islington offers a unique and comprehensive experience, perfectly preparing you for the diverse challenges of driving in London and beyond. Rated Driving is your ideal partner for driving lessons in this vibrant borough, providing expert instructors who are intimately familiar with Islington’s roads and traffic conditions.
Islington’s mix of bustling main roads and quieter residential streets provides an excellent training ground. You’ll gain confidence navigating the busy Upper Street and Holloway Road, mastering lane discipline and complex junctions. For perfecting manoeuvres like parallel parking and three-point turns, your instructor will guide you through the calmer residential areas such as those around Arlington Square or the side streets off Holloway Road like Dalmeny Road and Carleton Road. While Islington itself doesn’t have large roundabouts or dual carriageways, your lessons will extend to nearby areas to ensure you gain experience on these vital road types, preparing you for any driving scenario.
Beyond the practicalities, Islington offers a fantastic environment to learn in. Imagine taking a break from your driving lessons and unwinding at Highbury Fields, Islington’s largest green space, perfect for a stroll or a moment of calm. Or perhaps you’d prefer to explore the charming antique shops and independent boutiques of Camden Passage. For those with an appreciation for the arts, Sadler’s Wells Theatre and the Almeida Theatre offer world-class performances. Even the tranquil Regent’s Canal provides a scenic escape, ideal for a post-lesson walk. These local attractions make learning to drive in Islington not just about gaining a skill, but also about experiencing the best of this dynamic London borough.
When it comes to your practical driving test, while there isn’t a test centre directly within Islington due to its dense urban conditions, you’ll typically take your test at nearby centres in neighbouring Haringey, such as Wood Green or Tottenham. Your Rated Driving instructor will ensure you are familiar with the routes and conditions around these test centres. For your theory test, Islington learners will need to travel slightly outside the borough. Convenient options include the Southwark test centre near London Bridge or the Southgate test centre if you’re closer to Piccadilly line stations like Caledonian Road or Finsbury Park. You can find more information on practical test centres at GOV.UK’s driving test centre finder and theory test centres at GOV.UK’s theory test centre finder.
Rated Driving’s instructors offer flexible learning tailored to your needs, whether you’re a complete beginner or looking for a refresher. Their local expertise in Islington means you’ll receive targeted training on the specific challenges and nuances of driving in this area, from navigating bus lanes on roads like Caledonian Road and Upper Street to understanding urban clearway rules. With Rated Driving, you’re not just learning to pass a test; you’re gaining the confidence and skills to drive safely and independently in Islington and beyond.
Ready to embark on your driving journey in Islington? Don’t delay your independence any longer. Book your driving lessons in Islington with Rated Driving today and take the first step towards confidently navigating the roads of this fantastic London borough.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Islington
Isleworth (Fleming Way) Driving Test Centre
Worton Hall, Worton Rd, Isleworth, TW7 6ER
Mill Hill (London) Driving Test Centre
Unit 9, Grannard Business Centre, Ballards Lane, Mill Hill, NW7 2ET
Hendon (London) Driving Test Centre
3 Aviation Drive, Beaufort Park, Hendon, NW9 5TZ
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 Islington for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Islington, public transport is your best bet. From Hertfordshire, Great Northern services run frequently from stations like Welwyn Garden City and Hatfield directly to King’s Cross, a major hub for reaching Islington. Alternatively, from Hertford North, you can take a Great Northern train directly to Essex Road, which is in Islington.
If you’re coming from Essex, Greater Anglia operates trains from stations such as White Notley to London Liverpool Street. From Liverpool Street, you can easily connect to Islington via the London Underground. For those in Kent, Southeastern services from stations like Lenham or Gillingham will take you to London St Pancras International, another excellent connection point for Islington. From Surrey, London Overground services from Surrey Quays offer direct routes to Shoreditch High Street, a short distance from Islington. For Buckinghamshire, Chiltern Railways provides direct trains from London Marylebone to Wendover, but for Islington itself, consider services to London and then connecting. Burnham (Buckinghamshire) also has trains to Highbury & Islington via London Overground, Elizabeth line, and Great Northern.
The best times to travel to Islington are during off-peak hours: outside of Monday to Friday rush hours (generally 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM) and anytime on weekends. This avoids crowded trains and often offers cheaper fares for your journey to Islington. You can book train tickets via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Islington, public transport is efficient. From areas like Highbury, the 4, 19, and 30 bus routes frequently serve Islington Town Hall and Highbury & Islington. The 21 and N263 routes connect from Canonbury Square. If you’re coming from further afield, such as parts of North London, consider routes like the 43 towards Friern Barnet Halliwick Road or the 271.
To avoid traffic and ensure a smoother journey to Islington, travel during off-peak hours. Weekdays are generally quieter between 8:30 AM and 3:00 PM, and after 6:00 PM. On weekends, aim for before 11:00 AM and after 6:00 PM for your bus to Islington. You can purchase bus tickets directly from the bus driver using contactless payment, or explore options on Trainline or Arriva UK Bus.
Fun Fact About Islington
Islington, originally “Giseldone” (Gisla’s Hill) in 1005, transformed from a rural village to a bustling London borough. A fun fact: the Angel, Islington, a major junction and Monopoly board spot, is named after a 17th-century inn. Learn more about Islington.
Our Islington driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Islington 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 Islington’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 Islington?
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 Islington’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 Islington, North Acton, Ladbroke Grove & Kensal Rise.
- 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 Islington? 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.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Islington. 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.
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!
🏆 Pass Guarantee
Pass first time or they will refund you your £23! See test fee back! T&Cs apply
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Learner Driver Reviews in Islington 🙏
See why our learners in Islington love Rated Driving ♥️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My Experience Learning to Drive in Islington
My experience with Rated Driving in Islington was incredible. The lessons were structured, and my instructor made learning fun. I passed on my first try!
Sophie A
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Top-Notch Driving Lessons in Islington
I never thought I’d enjoy driving, but Rated Driving in Islington changed that. Great instructor, great tips, and a big confidence boost – I passed with ease!
Freya K
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Confident Behind the Wheel in Islington
Rated Driving in Islington made learning to drive a breeze. The instructor helped me stay calm and focused, and I passed first time. Great service!
Ethan P
1600+ DVSA-Registered Driving Instructors
Excellent Learner Driver Reviews
Money-Back Guarantee Policy
WHAT CAN I GET
Islington 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 Islington
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Islington who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Islington
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Islington who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Islington
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Islington ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Islington.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Islington today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover Near Islington, 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 Islington FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions like in Islington?
Islington’s roads present a varied and engaging environment for learning to drive. You’ll encounter busy main roads and thoroughfares, such as the A1 (Upper Street) and A501 (Pentonville Road), which are excellent for building confidence in traffic. Quieter residential areas like around Arlington Square are ideal for mastering manoeuvres and basic car control.
Which driving test centres are most convenient for learners in Islington?
Learners in Islington typically use nearby driving test centres such as Wood Green, Tottenham, Hendon, and Mill Hill. Your Rated Driving instructor will have local knowledge of these test routes, helping you prepare effectively for your practical test.
How can I book driving lessons in Islington with Rated Driving?
Booking driving lessons with Rated Driving in Islington is straightforward. You can book online 24/7 or call us to get started in as little as 10 minutes. We offer flexible scheduling and will match you with a DVSA-registered instructor in your local area.
What advice do you have for beginner drivers in Islington?
For beginners in Islington, your lessons will typically start on quieter back roads to help you gain confidence with steering and basic car control. As you progress, your instructor will introduce you to more challenging conditions, including dual carriageways and navigating junctions. Rated Driving aims to help learners become test-ready within 35 hours.
What are Rated Driving’s payment options for lessons in Islington?
Rated Driving offers flexible payment options for driving lessons in Islington, including pay-as-you-go rates. There is no deposit or upfront cost required for standard driving lessons. You can also save up to £110 by purchasing lessons in bulk.
What is Rated Driving’s policy on refunds or changing instructors in Islington?
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. While changing instructors is generally not possible once allocated, Rated Driving will endeavour to rebook you with a new instructor if there’s a material issue.
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].
