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Driving Lessons in Penge
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Penge instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Penge 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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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 Penge 🙏
See why our learners in Penge love Rated Driving ♥️
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Unforgettable Driving Journey in Penge
Rated Driving in Penge made learning to drive a breeze. The instructor helped me stay calm and focused, and I passed first time. Great service!
Grace N
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Top-Notch Driving Lessons in Penge
My experience with Rated Driving in Penge was incredible. The lessons were structured, and my instructor made learning fun. I passed on my first try!
Freya A
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Stress-Free Driving Lessons in Penge
Rated Driving in Penge made learning to drive a breeze. The instructor helped me stay calm and focused, and I passed first time. Great service!
Emily B
Learning to drive in Penge
Penge 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 Penge, 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 Southeast London, Penge offers an ideal environment to master the roads, combining convenience with a diverse range of driving conditions. Rated Driving provides comprehensive driving lessons in Penge, ensuring you gain the confidence and skills needed to pass your test and drive safely for life.
Penge is a fantastic place to learn due to its varied road network. You’ll get to experience everything from the bustling High Street, with its active flow of traffic and pedestrian crossings, to quieter residential streets like those around Thicket Road and Anerley Park, perfect for practicing manoeuvres such as parallel parking and three-point turns. Navigating the local roundabouts, such as those connecting to the A212, will also become second nature, preparing you for more complex junctions you’ll encounter on your driving test and beyond. The convenience of Penge’s location, with excellent transport links, means it’s easily accessible for lessons, fitting seamlessly into your schedule.
Beyond the practicalities of learning, Penge boasts a rich history and several appealing attractions that can make your driving journey even more enjoyable. Imagine finishing a successful lesson and then taking a stroll through Betts Park, a lovely green space that even contains a remnant of the old Croydon Canal. Or perhaps you’d prefer to explore the unique Crystal Palace Dinosaurs in Crystal Palace Park, located just on the Penge side. For those with a green thumb, Alexandra Nurseries in Parish Lane offers a charming garden centre with a café, perfect for a post-lesson treat. You could also visit the historic Royal Watermen’s and Lightermen’s Almshouses, beautiful Victorian buildings that add to Penge’s unique character.
When it comes to taking your practical driving test, the nearest centre to Penge is the Bromley Driving Test Centre, located at 121 Burnt Ash Lane, Bromley, BR1 5AB. This centre is easily accessible from Penge and offers a good range of road conditions to test your abilities. You can find more information about booking your practical test on the official GOV.UK website. Book your driving test. For your theory test, the closest centre is the Croydon Theory Test Centre, situated in Central House, close to St Georges Walk. You can book your theory test and find more details on the GOV.UK website. Find a theory test centre.
Choosing to learn with Rated Driving in Penge means you’ll benefit from local expertise and a tailored approach to your driving education. Our instructors are familiar with the specific challenges and nuances of driving in Penge, ensuring you receive the most relevant and effective training. With its convenient location, diverse roads, and charming local attractions, Penge truly is an excellent place to begin your driving journey. Don’t delay your independence any longer; take the wheel and book your driving lessons in Penge with Rated Driving today.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Penge
Hither Green (London) Driving Test Centre
42-44 Ennersdale Road, Lewisham, Hither Green, Greater London, SE13 6JD
Mitcham (London) Driving Test Centre
Redhouse Road, Merton, Mitcham, Greater London, CR0 3AQ
Croydon (London) Driving Test Centre
111 Canterbury Road, Croydon, Greater London, CR0 3HH
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 Penge for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Penge, public transport offers convenient access. Penge has two main stations: Penge East and Penge West, both in Travelcard Zone 4.
If you’re coming from areas served by Southeastern, such as Bromley South, you can take a direct train to Penge East. Services from London Victoria also frequently arrive at Penge East, with journey times around 18 minutes.
For those travelling from areas connected by London Overground, Penge West is your destination. Direct services from London Bridge reach Penge West in approximately 21 minutes. London Overground also connects Penge West to Highbury & Islington.
To ensure a smooth journey to Penge, aim for Off-Peak travel, typically outside weekday rush hours (7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM). Weekends generally offer a more relaxed travel experience to Penge. You can book train tickets via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Penge, public transport offers convenient access. From Bromley, the 227 bus route provides a direct service to Penge High Street and Penge West Station. If you’re coming from Croydon, the 197 bus will take you to Penge, stopping at locations like Penge Pawleyne Arms. Alternatively, the 75 bus connects Lewisham and Catford to Penge.
To avoid traffic, aim to travel to Penge during off-peak hours. Weekdays between 9 AM and 3 PM, and after 6 PM, are generally quieter. Weekends before 11 AM and after 6 PM also offer a more relaxed journey to Penge. Avoid the weekday morning peak (7 AM – 9 AM) and evening peak (4 PM – 7 PM) for smoother travel to Penge.
For bus tickets, you can purchase them directly from the bus operator or use an Oyster card or contactless payment. You can also explore bus ticket options on Trainline, Arriva UK Bus, Stagecoach, National Express, or FlixBus.
Fun Fact About Penge
Penge, mentioned in a 957 AD Saxon document, boasts one of London’s few original Celtic place names, meaning “edge of the wood.” This area was once part of the Great North Wood, where wild boar roamed freely. For a time, Penge was even a detached hamlet of Battersea, despite being miles away! Learn more about Penge.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Penge. 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 Penge driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Penge 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 Penge’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 Penge?
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 Penge’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 Penge, Canning Town, Mill Meads & Upton.
- 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 Penge? 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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1600+ DVSA-Registered Driving Instructors
Excellent Learner Driver Reviews
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WHAT CAN I GET
Penge 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 Penge
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Penge who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Penge
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Penge who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Penge
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Penge ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Penge.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Penge today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover Near Penge, 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 Penge FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions like in Penge?
Penge, located within the London Borough of Bromley, offers a varied environment for learning to drive. You’ll encounter busy main roads like the A213, A214, and A234, as well as quieter residential streets, providing a comprehensive learning experience. Our instructors are highly familiar with these local conditions, ensuring you gain confidence in diverse traffic scenarios.
Which driving test centres are most convenient for learners in Penge?
For learners in Penge, nearby practical driving test centres include Hither Green, the new Bromley test centre (Bromley Court), and West Wickham. Your Rated Driving instructor will help you become familiar with the specific routes and challenges associated with these centres.
How do I book driving lessons in Penge with Rated Driving?
Booking driving lessons in Penge with Rated Driving is straightforward. You can easily book online or call us to get started in as little as 10 minutes. We offer flexible scheduling and match you with a local, DVSA-registered instructor.
What advice do you have for beginner drivers in Penge?
For beginners in Penge, our instructors focus on building foundational skills in various environments, from navigating the main roads and thoroughfares to perfecting manoeuvres in quieter residential areas. You’ll also gain experience on dual carriageways and less-travelled routes to boost your confidence.
What is Rated Driving’s refund policy for lessons in Penge?
Rated Driving offers a “100% Money Back Guarantee” covering the first hour of your initial driving lesson. If you’re not satisfied after this first lesson, contact us within 24 hours for a full refund and we can help rebook you with a new instructor.
Can I change my driving instructor in Penge if needed?
Yes, you can request a change of instructor if there’s a material issue, as judged by Rated Driving. If a material issue is determined, we will do our best to connect you with a replacement instructor.
What payment options are available for driving lessons in Penge?
Rated Driving offers flexible payment options for your driving lessons in Penge. There is no deposit or upfront cost required for standard lessons, and you can pay as you go. Learners can also save up to £110 by purchasing lessons in bulk.
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].
