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Driving Lessons in Southwark
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Southwark instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Southwark 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 Southwark 🙏
See why our learners in Southwark love Rated Driving ♥️
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Why I Recommend Driving Lessons in Southwark
From the first lesson in Southwark, I knew I was in good hands. My instructor was so helpful and gave me all the tools to succeed. I passed first time!
Isla A
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My Experience Learning to Drive in Southwark
Rated Driving in Southwark made learning to drive a breeze. The instructor helped me stay calm and focused, and I passed first time. Great service!
Liam G
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Passed First Time in Southwark – Thanks to Rated Driving!
Learning to drive in Southwark with Rated Driving was the best decision. I felt safe and supported throughout. Highly recommend them to anyone wanting to pass with confidence!
Amelia G
Learning to drive in Southwark
Southwark 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 Southwark, so you’ll know what to expect and how to handle each section without second guessing.
Learning to drive in Southwark offers a unique and advantageous experience for aspiring motorists. This vibrant district of Central London, situated on the south bank of the River Thames, provides a diverse range of driving conditions that are ideal for developing comprehensive driving skills. With Rated Driving, you’ll benefit from instructors who are intimately familiar with the local roads and traffic patterns, ensuring you gain confidence and expertise in a real-world setting.
Southwark’s blend of bustling main roads and quieter residential streets makes it an excellent location for driving lessons. You’ll have the opportunity to navigate the busy thoroughfares like Borough High Street and Walworth Road, mastering lane discipline and dealing with urban traffic. For developing fundamental car control and clutch skills, your instructor might guide you through the calmer residential areas around Burgess Park or the streets off Old Kent Road. This varied environment in Southwark ensures you’re well-prepared for any driving scenario you might encounter after passing your test.
Beyond the practical benefits, Southwark is rich in cultural landmarks and attractions, adding an appealing dimension to your learning journey. Imagine taking a break from your lesson and being just moments away from exploring the historic Borough Market, one of London’s oldest and most renowned food markets. Or perhaps you could unwind after a successful session with a stroll through Burgess Park, a large public park offering a peaceful escape. The iconic The Shard, the tallest building in the United Kingdom, is also a prominent feature of the Southwark skyline, providing a stunning backdrop to your driving adventures. Art enthusiasts might even consider a visit to the world-renowned Tate Modern, housed in a former power station on the Thames. For a dose of history, the Imperial War Museum, with its extensive collections, is also located in Southwark. These local attractions make Southwark not just a place to learn, but a place to enjoy and explore.
When it comes to the official tests, Southwark is conveniently served. The nearest practical driving test centre is the London (Southwark) Driving Test Centre, located in the general Southwark area. You can find more information about this and other test centres on the general GOV.UK practical test centre finder page: Find a driving test centre. For your theory test, the Southwark Theory Test Centre is centrally located at Ground Floor, 22 Shand Street, Southwark, London. It’s easily accessible, with Elephant & Castle tube and train stations nearby, and bus stops on Tooley Street. You can book your theory test and find more details on the GOV.UK theory test centre finder page: Find a theory test centre.
Choosing Rated Driving for your lessons in Southwark means choosing a tailored and effective learning experience. Our instructors are dedicated to helping you become a safe and confident driver, navigating the unique challenges and opportunities that Southwark’s roads present. Don’t delay your journey to independence. Book your driving lessons in Southwark with Rated Driving today and take the first step towards gaining your driving licence.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Southwark
Hither Green (London) Driving Test Centre
42-44 Ennersdale Road, Hither Green, London, SE13 6JD
Bromley (London) Driving Test Centre
121 Burnt Ash Lane, Bromley, BR1 5AB
Morden (London) Driving Test Centre
10 Tudor Drive, Morden, SM4 4PE
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 Southwark for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Southwark, public transport is your best bet. If you’re coming from areas served by Southeastern Railway, such as Kent and East Sussex, direct trains often arrive at London Charing Cross, London Cannon Street, or London Bridge. From London Charing Cross, you can take a Southeastern train to London Waterloo East, which has a direct connection to Southwark Underground Station via a concourse. Alternatively, from London Bridge, Southwark Underground Station is just one stop away on the Jubilee Line.
If your journey originates from Surrey, South Western Railway services will typically bring you into London Waterloo. From London Waterloo, Southwark Underground Station is easily accessible via the Jubilee Line, just one stop eastbound. For those travelling from further afield, like Tring, West Midlands Trains offer services to London Euston, from where you’ll need to connect to the Underground network to reach Southwark.
To avoid the busiest periods when travelling to Southwark, aim for off-peak hours. Weekday mornings between 7:30 AM and 9:00 AM and evenings from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM are generally the busiest on the Tube. Quieter times for your journey to Southwark are typically weekdays between 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM, and after 6:45 PM. Weekends are generally less crowded, especially before noon and after 6:15 PM. You can book train tickets via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Southwark, public transport is efficient. From nearby Peckham, the 136 bus route connects to Elephant & Castle, a major hub for Southwark. Alternatively, the 381 bus from Peckham Library offers a direct route to Southwark Station. If you’re coming from Bermondsey, the P12 bus route serves Southwark Park Road. From Walworth, numerous routes like the 12, 35, 40, and 68 buses provide access to Elephant & Castle, a gateway to Southwark.
To avoid traffic, aim to travel outside of peak hours, generally 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on weekdays, when fares are also higher. London buses are cashless, so use an Oyster card, Travelcard, or contactless payment. The Hopper fare allows unlimited bus journeys for £1.75 within one hour of touching in.
You can purchase bus tickets and top up your Oyster card at Oyster Ticket Stops, Tube stations, or via the TfL Go app. For more information or to plan your journey to Southwark, visit Transport for London (TfL) or consider booking through Omio or FlixBus for longer distances into London.
Fun Fact About Southwark
Southwark, London’s oldest part south of the Thames, was established by the Romans around 43 AD due to its ideal location for London Bridge. Historically, it was a hub for “disreputable” entertainment, including bear-baiting and brothels, due to being outside the City of London’s strict rules. This area also housed the infamous Clink Prison. Learn more about Southwark.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Southwark. 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 Southwark driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Southwark 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 Southwark’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 Southwark?
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 Southwark’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 Southwark, Barkingside, Aldborough Hatch & Loxford.
- 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 Southwark? Whether you prefer automatic or manual, there are plenty of flexible lesson options available. Simply type in your postcode and submit your enquiry to be matched with a expert local DVSA-registered driving instructor in your area.
🤔 How many driving lessons will I need?
The DVSA says most people need about 40 hours of professional lessons, plus private practice. We'll help tailor your schedule to build confidence efficiently.
- The DVSA recommends about 45 hours of professional lessons and 22 hours of private practice for most learners.
- Some learners feel confident sooner, others need more time.
- Your instructor will monitor your progress and advise when you’re test-ready.
- Practice regularly for the best results.
- Everyone learns at their own pace.
Some learners feel test-ready in 30 hours. Others need more time to build confidence behind the wheel. What really matters isn’t the total - it’s the consistency.
The more often you drive, the more natural it becomes. Combining quality instructor lessons with regular practice builds confidence quickly.
Every learner progresses at their own pace, and that’s perfectly normal. Your instructor will adapt to your comfort level and guide you through each step with patience.
🧐 How to prepare for your first driving lesson
Getting ready for your first driving lesson is an exciting step - and a bit of preparation can help you feel more confident and relaxed on the day. Here’s a simple guide to help you make the most of it:
1. Check Your Provisional Licence
Before your lesson, make sure you have a valid provisional driving licence. Your instructor will need to see it to confirm you’re legally allowed to drive.
2. Get Familiar with the Basics
Take a few minutes to learn the basic layout of a car - the pedals, gear stick, steering wheel, and mirrors. Watching a short video or reading a beginner’s guide can help you feel more prepared.
3. Choose Comfortable Clothing
Wear clothes that allow you to move freely and flat-soled shoes that give you good control of the pedals. Avoid anything bulky or restrictive.
4. Bring the Essentials
Have your provisional licence with you, along with glasses or contact lenses if you need them to drive. A bottle of water is also a good idea to stay hydrated.
5. Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Feeling well-rested will help you stay focused and alert throughout your lesson.
6. Brush Up on the Highway Code
A quick review of key road signs, speed limits, and basic driving rules can give you a boost in confidence before you get behind the wheel. [download The Highway Code 2025 PDF]
7. Keep Your Expectations Realistic
Your first lesson is all about getting familiar with the car and starting to build your skills. Don’t worry about getting everything perfect - take it one step at a time.
With the right preparation and a calm mindset, you’ll be off to a great start.
🙏 What to expect on your first driving lesson
Your first driving lesson is a key milestone - it's where everything begins. The goal is to help you feel comfortable, introduce you to the car, and give you your first taste of driving. Here’s what typically happens during your first session:
1. Meet Your Instructor
You’ll meet your DVSA-registered driving instructor, who will check your provisional licence and have a quick chat about any experience or knowledge you already have.
2. Go Through the Cockpit Drill (DSSSM)
Before driving, you'll go through a quick safety routine to get set up properly:
- Doors - Make sure all doors are securely closed.
- Seat - Adjust your seat so you can reach the pedals comfortably.
- Steering - Adjust the steering wheel to suit your position.
- Seatbelt - Buckle up for safety.
- Mirrors - Position your mirrors for a clear view around the car.
3. Learn the Basic Car Controls
Your instructor will show you the key controls, including:
- Accelerator, brake, and clutch (if you're learning in a manual)
- Gear stick, handbrake, and indicators
- Other essentials like lights and wipers
4. Practice Moving Off and Stopping
You’ll start with the basics:
- How to start the engine safely
- Checking mirrors and blind spots
- Moving off smoothly and bringing the car to a controlled stop
5. Drive on Quiet Roads
If you're ready, your instructor may take you to a quiet area to practice simple driving skills like steering, gear changes, and stopping calmly.
6. Feedback and Next Steps
At the end of the lesson, your instructor will talk you through what went well and what to work on next time. This feedback helps you build confidence and track your progress.
Top Tips from our Experienced DVSA Approved Driving Instructor Experts
Q: How do I handle roundabouts without panicking?
"Stay calm by following the MSPSL routine (Mirrors, Signal, Position, Speed, Look) and always look right on approach. Practice with mini roundabouts first, then build up to larger ones using diagrams and videos for support."
Reginos Theodotou
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor for 20 years.
Q: What’s the correct way to check mirrors and signal?
"Check your mirrors before any change in direction, speed, or overtaking - act safely on what you see. Only signal if necessary, and make sure it’s correctly timed and clear."
Mali Summers
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: How do I stay calm before and during my driving lessons?
"Take deep breaths, remind yourself it's okay to make mistakes, and trust your instructor."
Shorif Kazi
DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: Is it easier to pass your driving test in an automatic car?
"Yes it much easier to pass in an automatic than a manual car. It’s especially effective for nervous drivers."
Mari Wright
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: What's the best way to learn clutch control?
"Practice clutch control in a quiet area by finding the bite point in first gear with light gas, checking all around (including blind spots), then releasing the handbrake. Read More
Mali Summers
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: Why do some people choose automatic over manual?
"Some people choose automatic because it's quicker to learn, less stressful, and easier to practise if they have access to an automatic car.
Read More
Mari Wright
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: What should I do if I make a mistake while driving?
"Stay calm, don’t panic - your instructor is there to help. Just learn from it and keep going."
Shorif Kazi
DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: How do I stop stalling at junction and roundabout?
"To avoid stalling at junctions and roundabouts, plan ahead, use the correct gear and speed, and anticipate when you’ll need to move.Read More
Mali Summers
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: How do I handle roundabouts without panicking?
"Knowledge, understanding when to go and when to wait."
Graham Morgan
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor for 15 years.
Q: How can I build my confidence if I’m a nervous driver?
"Practice regularly, start in quiet areas, and focus on small wins each lesson."
Shorif Kazi
DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: What do most people fail their driving test on?
"Interactions with others, junctions, meeting and roundabouts."
Graham Morgan
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor for 15 years.
Q: How many lessons does it really take to pass?
"It depends on the person, but most people need around 40–50 hours with a qualified instructor I have achieved 32 to 36 hours"
Shorif Kazi
DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: Can I drive a manual car if I pass in an automatic?
"If you pass in an automatic, you CANNOT unfortunately drive a manual car."
Mari Wright
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: What’s the number one mistake learners make?
"Trying to hard to be perfect. Mistakes are part of life."
Graham Morgan
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor for 15 years.
🏆 Pass Guarantee
Pass first time or they will refund you your £23! See test fee back! T&Cs apply
HAVEN'T PASSED YOUR THEORY TEST YET?
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Start studying now, Download today.
1600+ DVSA-Registered Driving Instructors
Excellent Learner Driver Reviews
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WHAT CAN I GET
Southwark 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 Southwark
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Southwark who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Southwark
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Southwark who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Southwark
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Southwark ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Southwark.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Southwark today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover Near Southwark, 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 Southwark FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions like in Southwark for learners?
Southwark offers a diverse environment for learning to drive, from quieter residential streets perfect for mastering basic controls and manoeuvres, to busier main roads and dual carriageways like the A200, which help build confidence in traffic. Your Rated Driving instructor will tailor lessons to ensure you gain experience across all these conditions, including navigating junctions and roundabouts common in urban areas.
Where are the nearest driving test centres to Southwark?
While Southwark has a theory test centre at 9 Holyrood Street, practical driving test centres are located in nearby areas. Popular practical test centres accessible from Southwark include Hither Green and Morden. Your Rated Driving instructor will be familiar with the local test routes to help you prepare effectively.
How can I book driving lessons in Southwark with Rated Driving?
Booking driving lessons with Rated Driving in Southwark is straightforward. You can easily book online anytime 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 who knows the Southwark roads well.
What advice do you have for beginner drivers in Southwark?
For beginners in Southwark, it’s recommended to start on quieter back roads to build confidence with steering and basic car control before progressing to busier areas. Your Rated Driving instructor will guide you through essential skills like cockpit drills, safety checks, moving away and stopping, and navigating junctions.
What is Rated Driving’s refund policy for lessons in Southwark?
Rated Driving offers a “100% Money Back Guarantee” for the first hour of your initial driving lesson if you’re not satisfied; simply contact us within 24 hours for a full refund and rebooking with a new instructor. For other refunds, payments made within the last 30 days can be refunded based on the agreed number of hours between the learner and instructor.
Can I change my driving instructor with Rated Driving in Southwark?
Yes, you can request to change your driving instructor if there’s a material issue, as judged by Rated Driving. We aim to connect you with a replacement instructor to ensure your learning experience is positive and effective.
What payment options are available for driving lessons in Southwark with Rated Driving?
Rated Driving offers flexible payment options, including pay-as-you-go for standard lessons with no deposit or upfront cost required. You can also save up to £110 by purchasing lessons in bulk. All payments for your lessons are conveniently made through the Rated Driving app.
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].
