Rated 'Excellent' on Trustpilot
Driving Lessons in Kingston upon Thames
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Kingston upon Thames instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Kingston upon Thames 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 Kingston upon Thames 🙏
See why our learners in Kingston upon Thames love Rated Driving ♥️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Confident Behind the Wheel in Kingston upon Thames
From the first lesson in Kingston upon Thames, I knew I was in good hands. My instructor was so helpful and gave me all the tools to succeed. I passed first time!
Leo S
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Unforgettable Driving Journey in Kingston upon Thames
Learning to drive in Kingston upon Thames with Rated Driving was the best decision. I felt safe and supported throughout. Highly recommend them to anyone wanting to pass with confidence!
Ethan W
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Friendly and Professional Instructors in Kingston upon Thames
I never thought I’d enjoy driving, but Rated Driving in Kingston upon Thames changed that. Great instructor, great tips, and a big confidence boost – I passed with ease!
Amelia V
Learning to drive in Kingston upon Thames
Kingston upon Thames 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 Kingston upon Thames, so you’ll know what to expect and how to handle each section without second guessing.
Learning to drive is a significant milestone, and choosing the right location for your lessons can make all the difference. For those in South West London, Kingston upon Thames offers an ideal environment to master the roads. With its diverse road conditions and excellent accessibility, taking driving lessons in Kingston upon Thames provides a comprehensive learning experience.
Rated Driving is a leading provider of driving lessons in Kingston upon Thames, known for its tailored manual and automatic lessons delivered by top independent instructors. Their instructors are highly familiar with the local driving test routes, ensuring you receive relevant and effective training. The convenience of learning in Kingston upon Thames is a major benefit; instructors can pick you up from your home, work, or another convenient location, saving you time and stress.
Kingston upon Thames presents a varied landscape for learner drivers. You’ll encounter busy town centre traffic around Eden Street, perfect for developing your confidence in urban settings. Quieter residential areas in Norbiton and around Tudor Drive offer excellent opportunities to practice fundamental skills like parallel parking and three-point turns in a less pressured environment. For those looking to tackle more challenging scenarios, the mix of junctions along Kingston Hill and the various roundabouts near Kingston University provide invaluable practice. You’ll also gain experience on main roads like the A3, A307, A240, A308, and A310, including the Kingston Bypass, preparing you for higher-speed driving. The one-way system in Kingston can initially seem intimidating, but with expert guidance from your instructor, you’ll navigate it with ease.
Beyond the practicalities of learning to drive, Kingston upon Thames boasts a wealth of attractions that make it a vibrant and appealing place. After a productive driving lesson, you could unwind by exploring the historic Ancient Market Place, which has been a hub of activity for centuries., Take a stroll along the River Thames, or visit the iconic All Saints Church, a site where several Saxon kings were crowned.,,, Don’t miss the quirky “Out of Order” sculpture by David Mach, featuring twelve red telephone boxes leaning like dominoes on Old London Road., For a dose of history and art, the Kingston Museum and the Dorich House Museum at Kingston University are well worth a visit.
When you’re ready for your practical driving test, the nearest centre to Kingston upon Thames is the Tolworth Driving Test Centre, located at Douglas House, 1b Douglas Road, Tolworth, KT6 7RZ. You can find more information about this centre on the GOV.UK website: Find a driving test centre. For your theory test, the Kingston upon Thames Theory Test Centre is conveniently situated at Unit J, Ground Floor, Crown Arcade, Union St, Kingston upon Thames., This centre is easily accessible and close to several train stations., You can book your theory test via the GOV.UK website: Find a theory test centre.
Choosing to learn with Rated Driving in Kingston upon Thames means you’re not just learning to pass a test; you’re gaining the skills and confidence to navigate any road, anywhere. Their flexible learning options, including male or female instructors and manual or automatic lessons, cater to your individual needs. With a proven track record of over 20,000 learners passing their driving test, Rated Driving is committed to helping you achieve your driving goals.
Ready to embark on your driving journey in Kingston upon Thames? Take the wheel and book your driving lessons with Rated Driving today to experience expert instruction and a clear path to becoming a confident and safe driver.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Kingston upon Thames
Tolworth Driving Test Centre
Douglas House, 1b Douglas Road, Kingston Upon Thames, Tolworth, Greater London, KT6 7RZ
Morden Driving Test Centre
10 Tudor Drive, Merton, Morden, Greater London, SM4 4PE
Sutton Driving Test Centre
Helena House, 348 High Street, Sutton, Surrey, SM1 1PU
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 Kingston upon Thames for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Kingston upon Thames, public transport is a convenient option. South Western Railway operates all services to Kingston upon Thames station, which is in Travelcard Zone 6.
If you’re coming from areas like Surrey, you can take a South Western Railway train from stations such as Box Hill & Westhumble, changing at Raynes Park to reach Kingston upon Thames. From Ashford (Surrey), direct trains to Kingston upon Thames are not available, but services with one change typically take around 31-48 minutes. From Tooting, a train journey to Kingston upon Thames usually takes about 36 minutes with one change.
For those travelling from Central London, direct South Western Railway trains run frequently from London Waterloo to Kingston upon Thames, with journey times as quick as 25-27 minutes. Services from Vauxhall also offer direct trains to Kingston upon Thames, taking approximately 23 minutes.
The best times to travel to Kingston upon Thames 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, to avoid busier trains and potentially secure cheaper fares. You can book train tickets via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
Kingston upon Thames is easily accessible by bus for your driving lessons. From Surbiton, the K2 bus offers a direct route to Kingston town centre. If you’re coming from New Malden, the 131 bus provides a straightforward journey into Kingston upon Thames. For those in Teddington or Hampton Wick, the R68 bus is your best bet, taking you directly to Kingston upon Thames. Learners from Esher or Claygate can take the K3 bus, which terminates in Kingston. The 514 and 515 services connect areas like Thames Ditton and Long Ditton to Kingston upon Thames. From Chessington and Tolworth, the 71 and 465 buses offer convenient access to Kingston.
To avoid traffic congestion in Kingston upon Thames, aim to travel outside of peak hours, typically 7:00 AM to 9:30 AM and 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM on weekdays. Mid-mornings and early afternoons are generally the best times for a smoother journey into Kingston upon Thames. For bus tickets, you can purchase them directly from the driver or use an Oyster card/contactless payment. You can also explore bus ticket options on Transport for London or National Express. Plan your journey to Kingston upon Thames in advance for a stress-free start to your lesson.
Fun Fact About Kingston upon Thames
Kingston upon Thames is an ancient market town, notable as the place where several Saxon kings were crowned, with the Coronation Stone still visible today. A fun fact: from Medieval times until 1866, Kingston annually hosted “Shrovetide Football,” a chaotic game where inhabitants kicked balls around town, often boarding up shop windows beforehand!
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Kingston upon Thames. 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 Kingston upon Thames driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Kingston upon Thames 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 Kingston upon Thames’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 Kingston upon Thames?
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 Kingston upon Thames’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 Kingston upon Thames, Bayswater, Paddington & Kingsbury.
- 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 Kingston upon Thames? 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?
Master the questions and hazard perception to pass your theory test first time
Rated Driving has partnered with the UK's No.1 Theory Test app from Driving Test Success. With Theory Test 4 in 1 you can study from 85 interactive Hazard Perception video clips from The latest Highway Code 2025 Edition. Sit unlimited mock tests to pass first time!
- 🥳 97% of people pass using the app
- 🎉 Helped over 18+ million learners
- 🙏 FREE Pass Guarantee
- Theory test questions
- Road signs
- Hazard perception
- DVSA & Smart AI
Start studying now, Download today.
1600+ DVSA-Registered Driving Instructors
Excellent Learner Driver Reviews
Money-Back Guarantee Policy
WHAT CAN I GET
Kingston upon Thames 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 Kingston upon Thames
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Kingston upon Thames who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Kingston upon Thames
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Kingston upon Thames who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Kingston upon Thames
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Kingston upon Thames ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Kingston upon Thames.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Kingston upon Thames today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover Near Kingston-upon-thames, 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 Kingston upon Thames FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions in Kingston upon Thames?
Kingston upon Thames presents a varied driving environment, from the bustling town centre with its one-way system to quieter residential streets. You’ll encounter diverse traffic conditions, including busy urban intersections and suburban avenues, providing a comprehensive learning experience.
Where are the nearest driving test centres to Kingston upon Thames?
The primary practical driving test centre for learners in Kingston upon Thames is located in Tolworth at Douglas House, 1b Douglas Road, KT6 7RZ. For theory tests, the Kingston upon Thames theory test centre is at Drapers Court, Kingston Hall Road, KT1 2BQ.
How can I book driving lessons in Kingston upon Thames with Rated Driving?
Booking driving lessons with Rated Driving in Kingston upon Thames is straightforward. You can easily book online or call us to get started in as little as 10 minutes. We offer flexible scheduling to fit your lifestyle, including evenings and weekends.
What advice do you have for beginner drivers in Kingston upon Thames?
For beginners in Kingston upon Thames, focus on mastering basic car control in quieter areas before tackling busier roads like the A3 or the challenging one-way system. Your instructor will guide you through essential skills like setting up the car, steering techniques, and mirror checks.
What is Rated Driving’s cancellation policy for lessons in Kingston upon Thames?
Rated Driving understands that plans can change. You can easily cancel or reschedule your driving lessons in Kingston upon Thames through our app, provided you give at least 48 hours’ notice. Failure to do so may result in a charge for the missed lesson.
Can I get a refund for unused driving lessons with Rated Driving in Kingston upon Thames?
Yes, Rated Driving offers a money-back guarantee if you’re not satisfied after your first lesson. For any subsequent unused pre-paid lessons, you are entitled to a refund of the balance, subject to our terms and conditions.
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].
