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Driving Lessons in Guildford
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Guildford instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Guildford with DVSA-approved instructors who know local test routes inside out. Whether you’re a beginner or refreshing your skills, Rated Driving connects you with trusted instructors for flexible, affordable driving lessons.
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Ready to join the learners passing their driving tests with Rated Driving?
Autumn Savings Are Here!
Autumn Sale!
This autumn, we're offering fantastic deals to help you hit the road:
- Save up to £110 on driving lessons when you book a 40-hour block.
- Earn £10 cashback for every paying friend you refer, directly to your bank or PayPal.
- Enjoy a 4.5% discount when you book 30 hours or more.
Take advantage of these seasonal savings and start your journey today!
Learner Driver Reviews in Guildford 🙏
See why our learners in Guildford love Rated Driving ♥️
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Stress-Free Driving Lessons in Guildford
From the first lesson in Guildford, 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 H
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My Experience Learning to Drive in Guildford
I took my driving lessons with Rated Driving in Guildford. 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!
Ethan T
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Top-Notch Driving Lessons in Guildford
I never thought I’d enjoy driving, but Rated Driving in Guildford changed that. Great instructor, great tips, and a big confidence boost – I passed with ease!
Mason M
Learning to drive in Guildford
Guildford 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 Guildford, so you’ll know what to expect and how to handle each section without second guessing.
Learning to drive in Guildford offers a unique and advantageous experience, perfectly blending urban challenges with quieter residential areas, making it an ideal location to gain comprehensive driving skills. Rated Driving provides exceptional driving lessons in Guildford, ensuring you become a confident and capable driver ready for any road.
Guildford’s diverse road network is a significant benefit for learner drivers. You’ll have the opportunity to practice on busy main roads like the A3 and A31, mastering lane changes and navigating higher speeds. The town centre, with its one-way systems and various junctions, provides excellent practice for urban driving and developing strong observational skills. For honing specific manoeuvres, quieter residential streets in areas like Onslow Village and Compton are often used, allowing you to perfect parallel parking and bay parking in a less pressured environment. Challenging roundabouts, such as the Dennis Roundabout and those around Stoke Interchange, are also frequently encountered on test routes, preparing you for complex traffic situations.
Beyond the practicalities of learning, Guildford offers a vibrant backdrop to your driving journey. Imagine taking a break from your lessons and exploring the historic Guildford Castle, with its beautiful grounds and panoramic views across the town. You could also visit the stunning Guildford Cathedral, a striking example of 20th-century architecture perched on Stag Hill. For a relaxing post-lesson activity, the Stoke Park offers expansive green spaces, or you could even enjoy a swim at the Guildford Lido, one of the last remaining 1930s lidos. These local attractions not only make Guildford an appealing place to learn but also provide familiar landmarks that can help you orient yourself during your lessons.
When you’re ready to take your practical driving test, the nearest centre is the Guildford Driving Test Centre, located at Slyfield Industrial Estate, off Moorfield Road, Guildford, GU1 1SA. You can find more information about this centre on the GOV.UK website. For your theory test, the Guildford Theory Test Centre is conveniently situated at The Old Magistrates Court, 71 North Street, Guildford, GU1 4AW. Details for booking your theory test can also be found on the GOV.UK website.
Choosing to learn with Rated Driving in Guildford means you’ll benefit from instructors who possess intricate local knowledge, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the specific challenges and nuances of driving in Guildford. Their structured lessons are tailored to individual needs, providing a supportive and effective learning environment. With Guildford’s varied roads and Rated Driving’s expert tuition, you’ll be well on your way to passing your test and enjoying the freedom of the open road.
Ready to start your driving journey in Guildford? Book your driving lessons with Rated Driving today and take the first step towards gaining your independence on the roads of Guildford.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Guildford
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 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 Guildford for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Guildford, train travel is efficient. From towns like Woking, frequent South Western Railway services reach Guildford in about 8 minutes. If you’re coming from London Waterloo, South Western Railway offers direct trains to Guildford, typically taking 30-45 minutes. For those travelling from Reading, Great Western Railway provides direct services to Guildford, with journeys around 35 minutes.
To ensure a smooth journey to Guildford, aim for Off-Peak hours. These are generally after 9:30 AM on weekdays and anytime on weekends and bank holidays. Avoid weekday Peak times, usually 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, as trains to Guildford will be busier and fares higher. You can book your train tickets to Guildford in advance via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Guildford, public transport offers convenient access to the town’s Friary Bus Station, the main hub for all routes into Guildford.
From Godalming, the Stagecoach South route 46 provides frequent services to Guildford, taking approximately 21 minutes from Flambard Way. If you’re coming from Farnham, the Stagecoach South route 65 runs hourly, reaching Guildford’s Friary Bus Station in about 25 minutes from The Borough. For those in Cranleigh, the Stagecoach South route 53 offers a direct bus to Guildford, with a journey time of around 36 minutes from New Park Road. From Aldershot, the Stagecoach South route 20 connects to Guildford’s Friary Bus Station every 15 minutes, with a journey time of approximately 48 minutes from Wellington Centre. Woking also has bus connections to Guildford, with services like the RA2 from Woking Railway Station Southside taking about 36 minutes.
To avoid heavy traffic into Guildford, especially on busy roads like Worplesdon Road, consider travelling outside of typical peak hours, which are generally 7 AM – 9 AM and 4 PM – 7 PM on weekdays. School holidays can also see quieter roads.
For bus tickets to Guildford, you can often purchase them directly from the bus operator, or explore options on the Stagecoach Bus App. You can also check Omio or Busbud for booking options.
Fun Fact About Guildford
Guildford, a historic town in Surrey, boasts a rich past dating back to Saxon times, even appearing in King Alfred the Great’s will around 880 AD. A fun fact: despite having a cathedral and a university, Guildford is not officially a city!
Learn more about Guildford.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Guildford. 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 Guildford driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Guildford 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 Guildford’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 Guildford?
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 Guildford’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 Guildford, East Horsley, Effingham & Little Bookham.
- 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 Guildford? 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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Excellent Learner Driver Reviews
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WHAT CAN I GET
Guildford 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 Guildford
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Guildford who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Guildford
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Guildford who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Guildford
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Guildford ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Guildford.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Guildford today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Driving lessons in Guildford FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions in Guildford?
Guildford offers a diverse range of driving conditions, perfect for learning. You’ll experience navigating the busy town centre, quieter residential streets for perfecting manoeuvres, and dual carriageways like the A3 and A31 for building confidence at higher speeds.
Where is the nearest driving test centre to Guildford?
The primary driving test centre for Guildford is located at Slyfield Industrial Estate, off Moorfield Road, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 1SA. Rated Driving instructors are familiar with the local test routes to help you prepare effectively.
How do I book driving lessons in Guildford with Rated Driving?
Booking driving lessons with Rated Driving in Guildford is straightforward. You can book online anytime or call 0330 043 9896 to get started quickly. We offer flexible scheduling and local instructor matching to suit your needs.
What should I expect on my first driving lesson in Guildford?
Your first driving lesson in Guildford will focus on getting you comfortable with the car’s basic controls, such as steering, braking, and acceleration. Your instructor will likely take you to a quiet area to begin, helping you to safely start and stop the car.
What is Rated Driving’s refund policy for driving lessons in Guildford?
Rated Driving offers a “100% Money Back Guarantee” for the first hour of your initial driving lesson if you’re not satisfied, provided you contact them within 24 hours. For other refunds, payments made within the last 30 days are eligible, and lessons not taken within 60 days of purchase may be nullified.
Can I change my driving instructor with Rated Driving in Guildford?
Yes, you can request to change your driving instructor if there’s a material issue, as judged by Rated Driving. While it’s not possible to change instructors for non-material issues, Rated Driving will endeavour to connect you with a replacement if a material issue is determined.
How do I pay for my driving lessons with Rated Driving in Guildford?
All payments for driving lessons with Rated Driving must be made through the Rated Driving app. We have a strict non-circumvention policy, meaning cash payments are not accepted by instructors. You can also save up to £110 by purchasing lessons in bulk.
What are some common challenges for learner drivers in Guildford?
Learners in Guildford often find multi-lane roundabouts, such as those on the A3 or near Dennis Roundabout and Egerton Road, challenging. Mastering clutch control and hill starts can also be tricky, especially on Guildford’s varied terrain.
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].
