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Driving Lessons in Chilworth
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Chilworth instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Chilworth 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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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 Chilworth 🙏
See why our learners in Chilworth love Rated Driving ♥️
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Unforgettable Driving Journey in Chilworth
I never thought I’d enjoy driving, but Rated Driving in Chilworth changed that. Great instructor, great tips, and a big confidence boost – I passed with ease!
Mason L
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Stress-Free Driving Lessons in Chilworth
Rated Driving in Chilworth made learning to drive a breeze. The instructor helped me stay calm and focused, and I passed first time. Great service!
Mason P
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My Experience Learning to Drive in Chilworth
Learning to drive in Chilworth with Rated Driving was the best decision. I felt safe and supported throughout. Highly recommend them to anyone wanting to pass with confidence!
Noah J
Learning to drive in Chilworth
Chilworth 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 Chilworth, so you’ll know what to expect and how to handle each section without second guessing.
Chilworth, a charming village nestled in the Test Valley district of Hampshire, offers an exceptional environment for learning to drive. With its blend of quiet residential streets and accessible main roads, Chilworth provides the perfect backdrop for new drivers to gain confidence and master essential skills. Rated Driving is proud to offer comprehensive driving lessons in Chilworth, tailored to help you navigate the local roads with ease and prepare you for your driving test.
Taking driving lessons in Chilworth comes with numerous benefits. The village’s tranquil atmosphere means less traffic congestion, allowing learners to focus on developing their car control and understanding road rules without feeling overwhelmed. As you progress, your Rated Driving instructor will guide you through various local driving conditions. You’ll gain experience on quieter residential roads within Chilworth Old Village, perfect for practicing manoeuvres like parallel parking and three-point turns. For those ready to tackle busier routes, lessons will extend to main roads such as the Southampton to Romsey road, which runs through modern Chilworth, helping you build confidence in higher traffic situations and at junctions.
Beyond the practicalities of learning to drive, Chilworth boasts several appealing attractions that make it a delightful place to spend time. After a successful driving lesson in Chilworth, you could unwind with a stroll through the beautiful grounds of Chilworth Manor, now a hotel and conference venue, or enjoy a refreshing drink at The Chilworth Arms, a local public house. For those interested in local history, the Anglican Church of St Denys in Chilworth Old Village, with its ancient bells, offers a glimpse into the past. The University of Southampton Science Park, also located in Chilworth, adds a modern dimension to the area.
When you’re ready for your practical driving test, the nearest centre to Chilworth is the Guildford Practical Driving Test Centre, located at Slyfield Industrial Estate, off Moorfield Road, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 1SA. Your Rated Driving instructor will ensure you are well-prepared for the specific challenges of this test centre, including familiarising you with potential test routes in and around Guildford. You can find more information about the Guildford test centre on the official GOV.UK website: Find a driving test centre.
Before you can take your practical test, you’ll need to pass your theory test. The nearest theory test centre to Chilworth is the Guildford Theory Test Centre, situated at Pearson Professional Centre, The Old Magistrates Court, 71 North Street, Guildford, GU1 4AW. This central location is easily accessible and your Rated Driving instructor can offer guidance and resources to help you prepare for this crucial step. You can book your theory test and find further details on the GOV.UK website: Find a theory test centre.
Learning to drive in Chilworth with Rated Driving means receiving expert, patient instruction in a location that offers diverse driving conditions, from quiet village lanes to busier main roads. This hyperlocal approach ensures you gain the comprehensive skills and confidence needed to pass your test and become a safe, independent driver. Don’t delay your journey to driving freedom. Book your driving lessons in Chilworth with Rated Driving today and take the first step towards confidently navigating the roads of Hampshire and beyond.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Chilworth
Guildford Driving Test Centre
Slyfield Industrial Estate, Off Moorfield Road, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 1SA
Farnborough Driving Test Centre
35 Hercules Way, Aerospace Boulevard, Unit C1, Cirrus, Farnborough, Hampshire, GU14 6UU
Chertsey (London) Driving Test Centre
Unit 4, The Forum, Hanworth Lane, Chertsey, Surrey, KT16 9JX
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 Chilworth for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Chilworth for lessons, navigating public transport is straightforward. Chilworth station, located in Surrey, is on the North Downs Line and is operated by Great Western Railway (GWR).
If you’re coming from Guildford, direct GWR trains to Chilworth are frequent, with journeys as short as 6 minutes. From Reading, GWR offers direct services to Chilworth, typically taking around 55 minutes. For those travelling from London, specifically London Waterloo, you can reach Chilworth with one change, usually at Guildford, with a total journey time of approximately 50 minutes to 1 hour 29 minutes.
The typical off-peak service to Chilworth is one train every two hours in each direction between Reading and Gatwick Airport. During peak hours, the service increases to one train per hour. To avoid busier periods, aim for off-peak travel, generally outside Monday-Friday rush hours (7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM) and anytime on weekends. Chilworth station does not have a ticket office, so it’s essential to purchase tickets online in advance.
You can book your train tickets to Chilworth via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Chilworth, public transport offers convenient access. From Southampton, the Bluestar Line 1 bus provides a direct service to Chilworth, departing from Above Bar and arriving at Birch Road, with a journey time of approximately 19 minutes. This service runs every 15 minutes daily. Alternatively, from Southampton Central Station, the Bluestar Line 1 bus from Cenotaph also reaches Birch Road in about 17 minutes.
If you’re travelling to Chilworth from Guildford, the Compass Travel bus route 32 is a good option, departing from Millbrook and arriving at Blacksmith Lane or Chilworth Railway Station. This bus journey to Chilworth takes around 10-11 minutes and operates every two hours.
For those coming from Winchester, the Bluestar Line 1 bus from Jewry Street offers a direct route to Birch Road in Chilworth, taking about 35 minutes and departing hourly. Another option is the Stagecoach South Line 46 bus from Winchester Railway Station to Misslebrook Lane, which runs twice daily on weekdays and takes around 36 minutes.
To avoid potential delays when travelling to Chilworth, it’s generally best to steer clear of peak morning and evening rush hours, typically 7 AM – 10 AM and 4 PM – 7 PM on weekdays. You can book bus tickets directly with the bus operators or explore options on Trainline or Arriva UK Bus.
Fun Fact About Chilworth
Chilworth, Surrey, boasts a rich industrial past, notably its historic Gunpowder Mills established in 1626 by the East India Company. These mills were so significant that they were the sole legal producer of gunpowder for the King until 1641. A fun fact: the innovative “Chilworth mounds,” earth banks designed to contain explosions, were developed here and adopted by other explosives manufacturers. Learn more about Chilworth.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Chilworth. 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 Chilworth driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Chilworth 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 Chilworth’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 Chilworth?
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 Chilworth’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 Chilworth, Thames Ditton, Long Ditton & Tolworth.
- 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 Chilworth? 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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- 🥳 97% of people pass using the app
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- Theory test questions
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Start studying now, Download today.
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WHAT CAN I GET
Chilworth 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 Chilworth
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Chilworth who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Chilworth
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Chilworth who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Chilworth
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Chilworth ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Chilworth.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Chilworth today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Driving lessons in Chilworth FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions like in Chilworth?
Chilworth, located on the northern edge of Southampton, offers a varied environment for driving lessons. You’ll experience both modern roads and older routes, such as those around Chilworth Old Village, which can help you master different road types. Our instructors are familiar with the local traffic patterns and will guide you through residential areas for manoeuvres and main roads for building confidence in traffic.
Where are the nearest driving test centres to Chilworth?
For your practical driving test, nearby centres include Southampton (Forest Hills) and Southampton (Maybush). Your Rated Driving instructor will help you become familiar with the specific test routes and conditions around these centres, increasing your chances of a successful pass.
How do I book driving lessons in Chilworth with Rated Driving?
Booking driving lessons with Rated Driving in Chilworth is straightforward. You can easily book online through our website, choosing from flexible scheduling options and selecting an instructor that suits your preferences. We offer pay-as-you-go lessons, and there’s no deposit or upfront cost for standard lessons. You can also save up to £110 by purchasing lessons in bulk. http://www.rateddriving.com
What should I expect on my first driving lesson in Chilworth?
Your first driving lesson in Chilworth will typically involve getting comfortable with the car’s controls, such as the pedals, steering, and mirrors, in a quiet area. Your instructor will guide you through the cockpit drill (DSSSM: Doors, Seat, Steering, Seatbelt, Mirrors) and help you practice basic movements like starting and stopping.
What is Rated Driving’s refund policy for lessons in Chilworth?
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 subsequent lessons, refunds for payments made within the last 30 days are processed based on the agreed number of hours between you and your instructor.
Can I change my driving instructor in Chilworth if needed?
While it’s generally not possible to change instructors once allocated, Rated Driving will endeavour to rebook you with a new instructor if there’s a material issue, as judged by us. Examples of material issues include an instructor repeatedly not attending lessons or conducting them incompetently.
Are there any specific local road challenges in Chilworth that Rated Driving instructors help with?
Chilworth’s roads offer diverse training opportunities. Our instructors will help you navigate the main roads and thoroughfares, perfect your manoeuvres in quieter residential areas, and gain confidence on dual carriageways, preparing you for various driving scenarios.
Does Rated Driving offer intensive driving courses in Chilworth?
Yes, our independent driving instructors in Chilworth can arrange intensive driving courses tailored to your individual needs if you’re looking to pass your test more quickly. These courses typically involve more hours per week over a shorter period.
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].
