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Driving Lessons in Caterham
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Caterham instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Caterham 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 Caterham 🙏
See why our learners in Caterham love Rated Driving ♥️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Friendly and Professional Instructors in Caterham
From the first lesson in Caterham, I knew I was in good hands. My instructor was so helpful and gave me all the tools to succeed. I passed first time!
Liam Y
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why I Recommend Driving Lessons in Caterham
I took my driving lessons with Rated Driving in Caterham. The instructor was brilliant – calm, clear, and super supportive. I felt completely ready by the time my test came around and passed with just 1 minor!
Sophie G
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Confident Behind the Wheel in Caterham
I never thought I’d enjoy driving, but Rated Driving in Caterham changed that. Great instructor, great tips, and a big confidence boost – I passed with ease!
Isla X
Learning to drive in Caterham
Caterham 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 Caterham, 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. Caterham, with its unique blend of urban and semi-rural roads, offers an ideal environment for new drivers to gain confidence and master essential skills. Rated Driving is your go-to provider for driving lessons in Caterham, offering expert instruction tailored to the local area.
One of the key benefits of taking driving lessons in Caterham is the sheer variety of road conditions you’ll encounter. From the quieter residential streets of Caterham on the Hill, perfect for practicing your manoeuvres and getting comfortable with basic car control, to the busier main roads like the A22, which runs close to the town, you’ll experience a comprehensive range of driving scenarios. This exposure ensures you’re well-prepared for anything the road throws at you, building a robust foundation for safe and confident driving. Navigating the local roundabouts and junctions, which can vary in complexity, will also become second nature with the guidance of a Rated Driving instructor who knows Caterham like the back of their hand.
Beyond the practicalities of learning, Caterham offers a charming backdrop to your driving journey. Imagine finishing a successful lesson and being able to relax at a local spot. You could take a stroll through the beautiful Harestone Valley, or perhaps visit the historic St. Lawrence Church, which dates back to around 1095. For those interested in local history, the East Surrey Museum is another fascinating attraction in Caterham. These local landmarks and green spaces provide a pleasant contrast to the focused environment of your driving lessons, making your time learning in Caterham even more enjoyable.
When it comes to the practical driving test, while Caterham doesn’t have its own test centre, the nearest one is the Redhill Aerodrome Driving Test Centre. Located at First Floor, Redhill Aerodrome Business Centre, Kings Mill Lane, Redhill, Surrey, RH1 5JZ, your Rated Driving instructor will ensure you are familiar with the types of roads and junctions you might encounter on the test routes in and around Redhill. You can find more information about this test centre on the GOV.UK website: Redhill Aerodrome Driving Test Centre.
For your theory test, the nearest centre to Caterham is the Croydon Theory Test Centre. Situated in Central House, 27 Park Street, Croydon, CR0 1YD, it’s easily accessible and offers a convenient location for taking this crucial first step. You can find details about the Croydon Theory Test Centre and book your test via the GOV.UK website: Croydon Theory Test Centre.
Choosing Rated Driving for your lessons in Caterham means you’re not just learning to pass a test; you’re gaining the skills and confidence to drive safely and independently in a diverse and engaging local environment. Our instructors are dedicated to providing a supportive and effective learning experience, ensuring you become a competent driver ready for the roads of Caterham and beyond.
Ready to embark on your driving adventure in Caterham? Don’t delay your journey to independence. Book your driving lessons in Caterham with Rated Driving today and take the first step towards gaining your full driving licence.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Caterham
Redhill Aerodrome Driving Test Centre
First Floor, Redhill Aerodrome Business Centre, Kings Mill Lane, Redhill, Surrey, RH1 5JZ
Mitcham (London) Driving Test Centre
Redhouse Road, Mitcham, Surrey, CR0 3AQ
Croydon (London) Driving Test Centre
111 Canterbury Road, Croydon, Greater London, CR0 4XZ
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 Caterham for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
To reach Caterham for your driving lessons, public transport is straightforward. If you’re coming from areas like Croydon, Purley, or East Croydon, direct Southern services frequently run to Caterham. The Caterham railway station is the terminus of its branch line, making it easy to navigate.
For those travelling from further afield, such as London Victoria or London Bridge, direct Southern trains will take you to Caterham, typically via East Croydon and Purley. The journey to Caterham from London Victoria usually takes around 50 minutes, and from London Bridge, about 55 minutes.
For the best experience travelling to Caterham, aim for off-peak hours. Generally, off-peak times are weekdays from 09:30 to 16:00 and after 19:00, and all day on weekends and bank holidays. Avoid peak times, which are typically Monday to Friday, 06:30 to 09:30 and 16:00 to 19:00, as trains to Caterham will be busier and fares higher. You can book your train tickets to Caterham via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Caterham, several bus routes offer convenient access from surrounding areas. From Godstone, the Metrobus 400 service provides a direct link to Caterham station, taking approximately 7 minutes and departing every 30 minutes. If you’re coming from Whyteleafe, the Metrobus 409 bus is a good option, reaching Caterham on the Hill in about 6 minutes from Whyteleafe Tavern. Alternatively, the 407 bus from St Luke’s Road in Whyteleafe also serves Caterham Valley, with services every 15 minutes. From Warlingham, the Metrobus 409 bus offers a direct route to Caterham station, taking around 23 minutes from The Green. The 411 bus also connects Warlingham to Caterham. For those travelling from Oxted, the Metrobus 611 bus runs to Caterham station, with a journey time of about 26 minutes.
To avoid traffic congestion in Caterham, particularly around peak hours (generally 7-10 AM and 4-7 PM on weekdays), consider travelling outside these times. You can purchase bus tickets directly from the bus operator or explore options on Trainline or Arriva UK Bus.
Fun Fact About Caterham
Caterham, Surrey, transformed from a small village of 477 residents in the early 1800s to a bustling Victorian town after the railway arrived in 1856. A fun fact: the well-known London jeweller Charles Asprey donated Caterham’s first streetlight, the Asprey Fountain, in 1890. Learn more about Caterham.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Caterham. 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 Caterham driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Caterham 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 Caterham’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 Caterham?
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 Caterham’s roads inside out - so you can learn faster and pass with confidence.
- Local Experts, Ready to Go:
Over 141 DVSA-registered driving instructors across Surrey including Caterham, Lightwater, Hindhead & Peasmarsh.
- 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 Caterham? 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
Money-Back Guarantee Policy
WHAT CAN I GET
Caterham 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 Caterham
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Caterham who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Caterham
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Caterham who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Caterham
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Caterham ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Caterham.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Caterham today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Driving lessons in Caterham FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions like in Caterham?
Caterham offers a varied environment for learning to drive, from the main roads and thoroughfares in Caterham Valley to quieter residential areas in Caterham on the Hill. You’ll gain experience navigating town centre traffic, perfecting manoeuvres in residential streets, and building confidence on dual carriageways like the A22 (Godstone Road / Caterham Bypass) which links to the M25.
Where are the nearest driving test centres to Caterham?
Caterham does not have its own driving test centre. Learners typically travel to nearby test centres in towns such as Croydon or Crawley. Your Rated Driving instructor will ensure you are familiar with the routes and conditions around these test centres.
How do I book driving lessons in Caterham with Rated Driving?
Booking driving lessons with Rated Driving in Caterham is straightforward. You can book online anytime or call us to get started quickly. We offer flexible scheduling and match you with a DVSA-registered instructor in your local area.
What advice do you have for beginner drivers in Caterham?
For beginners in Caterham, it’s beneficial to practice on a variety of roads to build experience. Your Rated Driving instructor will guide you through essential skills like cockpit drills, safety checks, moving away and stopping, and road positioning. We aim to help learners become test-ready efficiently.
What is Rated Driving’s cancellation policy for lessons in Caterham?
While each independent instructor has their own cancellation policy, the standard requires at least 48 hours’ notice directly to your instructor to cancel or rearrange lessons. Failure to provide sufficient notice may result in forfeiture of the lesson without a refund.
Can I change my driving instructor if I’m not happy?
Rated Driving aims for all learners to have a great experience. While it’s generally not possible to change instructors once allocated, if there’s a material issue, as judged by Rated Driving, we will do our best to connect you with a replacement instructor.
What payment options are available for driving lessons in Caterham?
All payments for driving lessons with Rated Driving must be made through the Rated Driving app. We offer flexible pay-as-you-go options, and you can save up to £110 by purchasing lessons in bulk. There is no deposit or upfront cost required for standard driving lessons.
What is Rated Driving’s refund policy?
Rated Driving offers a “100% Money Back Guarantee” covering the first hour of your initial driving lesson if you are not satisfied. For other refunds, payments made within the last 30 days will be refunded based on the agreed hours and value between you and your instructor. After 30 days, no refund is due, and credits expire if lessons aren’t taken within 60 days of purchase.
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].
