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Driving Lessons in Esher
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🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Esher 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 Esher 🙏
See why our learners in Esher love Rated Driving ♥️
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Stress-Free Driving Lessons in Esher
I took my driving lessons with Rated Driving in Esher. 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!
Grace K
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Unforgettable Driving Journey in Esher
From the first lesson in Esher, I knew I was in good hands. My instructor was so helpful and gave me all the tools to succeed. I passed first time!
Noah B
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My Experience Learning to Drive in Esher
Learning to drive in Esher with Rated Driving was the best decision. I felt safe and supported throughout. Highly recommend them to anyone wanting to pass with confidence!
Liam Q
Learning to drive in Esher
Esher 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 Esher, 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. Esher, with its unique blend of suburban charm and accessible road networks, offers an ideal environment for new drivers to gain confidence and master their skills. Rated Driving provides comprehensive driving lessons in Esher, tailored to help you navigate the local roads with ease and prepare you thoroughly for your practical test.
One of the key benefits of taking driving lessons in Esher is the variety of local driving conditions you’ll encounter. From the quieter residential streets like Thistledene and Ennismore Gardens, perfect for getting to grips with basic car controls and initial manoeuvres, to the busier A307, historically the Portsmouth Road, which runs through the heart of Esher, you’ll experience a diverse range of traffic scenarios. Your instructor will guide you through the Esher one-way system and help you confidently tackle roundabouts, such as the challenging Scilly Isles double roundabout junction, which connects routes towards Hampton Court, Kingston-Upon-Thames, and the A3. For those ready to experience higher speeds, the A3 offers stretches where you can practice at 50mph and even 70mph, providing invaluable motorway experience.
Beyond the practicalities of learning, Esher boasts a wealth of attractions that make it a truly appealing place to spend your time. Imagine finishing a successful driving lesson and then unwinding at the stunning Claremont Landscape Garden, a National Trust property and one of the oldest surviving ornamental gardens in the UK. Or perhaps you’d prefer to catch an event at the renowned Sandown Park Racecourse, a famous venue for horse racing and other events. For a bit of local history, you could explore the area around Wayneflete Tower, the oldest building in Esher. These local landmarks not only add to Esher’s appeal but also provide familiar points of reference as you become more accustomed to driving around the town.
When it comes to your practical driving test, the nearest centre to Esher is the Tolworth Test Centre, located on Douglas Road in Tolworth, approximately 4 miles away. This centre offers a range of road types, ensuring you’ll be well-prepared for the conditions you might face on your test. Your Rated Driving instructor will be familiar with the Tolworth test routes, giving you the advantage of practicing on roads that could feature in your actual test. You can find more information about practical test centres on the GOV.UK website: Find a driving test centre. For your theory test, while there isn’t a dedicated theory test centre in Esher itself, the nearest options would typically be found in surrounding areas like Kingston or Guildford. You can locate your closest theory test centre and book your test via the official GOV.UK page: Find a theory test centre.
Learning to drive in Esher with Rated Driving means you’ll benefit from instructors who know the area intimately, providing you with the best possible foundation for a lifetime of safe driving. The convenience and accessibility of Esher, combined with its varied road conditions and charming local attractions, truly make it an ideal place to embark on your driving journey.
Ready to take the wheel in Esher? Book your driving lessons with Rated Driving today and start your journey towards driving independence.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Esher
Tolworth Driving Test Centre
Douglas House, 1B Douglas Road, Tolworth, Greater London, KT6 7RZ
Morden Driving Test Centre
10 Tudor Drive, Morden, Greater London, SM4 4PE
Chertsey 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 Esher for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Esher, convenient train connections are available from several nearby towns and villages. South Western Railway operates direct services to Esher.
From Surbiton, direct South Western Railway trains reach Esher in just 4 minutes, with services every 30 minutes. Woking offers direct South Western Railway trains to Esher, with an average journey time of 18-19 minutes. From Guildford, South Western Railway services to Esher typically take around 33-39 minutes, with some direct trains available. Claygate also connects to Esher via South Western Railway, though a change is usually required, with journeys taking around 15-31 minutes.
To ensure a smooth journey to Esher, aim for Off-Peak travel. These times are generally outside weekday morning commuting periods (before 6:00 AM and after 10:00 AM) and evening commuting periods (after 7:00 PM). Avoid weekday peak hours, typically 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, when trains to Esher can be busier. You can book your train tickets for Esher via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
Getting to Esher for your driving lessons is straightforward via local bus services. From Kingston upon Thames, the R68 bus provides a direct route to Esher, stopping conveniently near the town centre. If you’re coming from Hersham or Walton-on-Thames, the 515 bus service will bring you directly into Esher. For those in Cobham or Oxshott, the 515 also serves Esher, ensuring easy access. To avoid traffic, especially on the A3 and surrounding roads leading into Esher, aim to travel outside of weekday peak hours (7:30 AM – 9:30 AM and 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM). Mid-morning or early afternoon are ideal times for a smoother journey to Esher. You can purchase bus tickets directly from the driver or via mobile apps for local operators. For more information and to plan your journey to Esher, visit Arriva UK Bus or Bustimes.org.
Fun Fact About Esher
Esher, a historic Surrey town, was a significant stagecoach stop on the London-Portsmouth road. Famously, Cardinal Wolsey sought refuge at Esher Palace after falling from King Henry VIII’s favour in 1529. A fun fact: George Harrison of The Beatles owned a house in Esher in the 1960s, where the band often visited and used his home recording studio.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Esher. 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 Esher driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Esher 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 Esher’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 Esher?
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 Esher’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 Esher, Ashford, Frimley & Camberley.
- 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 Esher? 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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WHAT CAN I GET
Esher 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.
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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.
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Female driving instructors Esher
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Esher who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Esher
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Esher who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Esher
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Esher ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Esher.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Esher today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Driving lessons in Esher FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions like in Esher?
Esher presents a varied environment for learning to drive, from quieter residential streets like Thistledene and Ennismore Gardens near Thames Ditton Station, ideal for beginners to practice basic controls, to busier main roads. You’ll encounter the A307 leading to the Scilly Isles roundabout, and the A3 which can experience congestion, especially during peak times. Our local instructors are highly familiar with these conditions and will tailor your lessons to ensure you gain confidence across all road types in Esher.
Which driving test centres are most convenient for learners in Esher?
For learners in Esher, the most convenient driving test centres include Tolworth Test Centre on Douglas Road, approximately 4 miles away, and Morden Test Centre on Tudor Drive, about 6 miles from Esher. Your Rated Driving instructor will help you become familiar with the typical test routes and conditions around these centres, increasing your chances of a first-time pass.
How do I book driving lessons in Esher with Rated Driving?
Booking driving lessons with Rated Driving in Esher is straightforward. Simply visit our website, enter your postcode, and you can find and book lessons with a local DVSA-registered instructor. We offer flexible scheduling and pay-as-you-go options, with no deposit or upfront cost for standard lessons. You can also save up to £110 by purchasing lessons in bulk. https://www.rateddriving.com
What advice do you have for complete beginners starting driving lessons in Esher?
For complete beginners in Esher, we recommend starting in quieter areas such as Thistledene or the roads around The Drive, which are excellent for mastering basic car controls and initial manoeuvres. Your Rated Driving instructor will guide you through essential skills like the cockpit drill, mirror use, signalling, and smooth stopping and starting. It’s normal to feel nervous, so focus on staying calm and practicing regularly.
What is Rated Driving’s policy on refunds for driving lessons?
Rated Driving offers a “100% Money Back Guarantee” covering the first hour of your initial driving lesson if you are not satisfied; simply contact us within 24 hours for a full refund and rebooking with a new instructor. For subsequent lessons, refunds for unused hours are processed if agreed upon between you and your instructor, typically within 30 days of payment.
Can I change my driving instructor if I’m not happy with my lessons in Esher?
Yes, Rated Driving understands the importance of a good rapport with your instructor. While it’s not possible to change instructors once allocated unless there’s a material issue, as judged by Rated Driving, we will endeavour to rebook you with a replacement instructor if a material issue is determined. We aim to ensure you have a comfortable and effective learning experience.
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].
