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Driving Lessons in Sunbury-on-Thames
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Sunbury-on-Thames instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Sunbury-on-Thames 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 Sunbury-on-Thames 🙏
See why our learners in Sunbury-on-Thames love Rated Driving ♥️
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Why I Recommend Driving Lessons in Sunbury-on-Thames
I took my driving lessons with Rated Driving in Sunbury-on-Thames. 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!
Amelia U
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Passed First Time in Sunbury-on-Thames – Thanks to Rated Driving!
My experience with Rated Driving in Sunbury-on-Thames was incredible. The lessons were structured, and my instructor made learning fun. I passed on my first try!
Liam D
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Stress-Free Driving Lessons in Sunbury-on-Thames
My experience with Rated Driving in Sunbury-on-Thames was incredible. The lessons were structured, and my instructor made learning fun. I passed on my first try!
Grace Q
Learning to drive in Sunbury-on-Thames
Sunbury-on-Thames 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 Sunbury-on-Thames, so you’ll know what to expect and how to handle each section without second guessing.
Learning to drive in Sunbury-on-Thames offers a fantastic opportunity to gain confidence and essential skills on a diverse range of roads. Rated Driving is your go-to provider for driving lessons in this charming Surrey town, ensuring you receive expert tuition tailored to your individual needs. Our instructors possess in-depth local knowledge, making your learning experience in Sunbury-on-Thames both effective and enjoyable.
Sunbury-on-Thames provides an ideal environment for learner drivers, blending quieter residential streets with more challenging main roads. You’ll have the chance to master essential manoeuvres on peaceful roads like Maryland Way and Silverdale Drive, known for their low traffic density and wide spaces, perfect for beginners. As your confidence grows, your instructor will guide you onto busier routes such as the A308, also known as Staines Road East, which winds past Kempton Park Racecourse and through Sunbury-on-Thames. You’ll also gain valuable experience navigating the Sunbury Cross roundabout, a significant junction where the A308 meets Junction 1 of the M3 and the A316, preparing you for various traffic conditions you’ll encounter on your driving test and beyond.
Beyond the practicalities of learning to drive, Sunbury-on-Thames boasts several appealing attractions that make it a wonderful place to spend time. After a productive driving lesson, you could unwind with a stroll through Sunbury Park and the Walled Garden, a beautiful historic garden perfect for relaxation. You might also enjoy visiting Kempton Park Racecourse, a well-known venue that hosts horse racing and various events throughout the year. For a taste of local history and riverside charm, explore Sunbury Lock, a complex of locks on the River Thames, mentioned in Jerome K. Jerome’s “Three Men in a Boat.” The Sunbury Millennium Embroidery, housed in the Walled Garden, is another local gem, reflecting the town’s rich history.
When it comes to taking your practical driving test, the nearest centre to Sunbury-on-Thames is the Ashford (Middlesex) Driving Test Centre, located at 18/19 Fir Tree Place, Church Road, Ashford, TW15 2PH. For your theory test, the closest facility is the Kingston upon Thames Theory Test Centre, situated at Unit J, Ground Floor, Crown Arcade, Union St, Kingston upon Thames, KT1 2BZ.
Rated Driving is committed to helping you become a safe and confident driver in Sunbury-on-Thames. Our instructors are dedicated to providing a supportive and effective learning environment, ensuring you’re fully prepared for your driving test and a lifetime of safe driving. With our tailored lessons and focus on local driving conditions, you’ll gain the skills and confidence needed to navigate the roads of Sunbury-on-Thames with ease.
Ready to embark on your driving journey in Sunbury-on-Thames? Book your driving lessons with Rated Driving today and take the first step towards gaining your independence on the road.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Sunbury-on-Thames
Ashford (Middlesex) Driving Test Centre
18/19 Fir Tree Place, Church Road, Ashford, TW15 2PJ
Chertsey Driving Test Centre
Unit 4, The Forum, Hanworth Lane, Chertsey, Surrey, KT16 9JX
Tolworth Driving Test Centre
Douglas House, 1B Douglas Road, Tolworth, Greater London, KT6 7RZ
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 Sunbury-on-Thames for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Sunbury-on-Thames, public transport offers convenient access. South Western Railway is your primary operator for reaching Sunbury-on-Thames.
If you’re coming from nearby Shepperton, direct South Western Railway services to Sunbury-on-Thames take as little as 5 minutes. From Hampton (London), direct South Western Railway trains also reach Sunbury-on-Thames in about 4-5 minutes. Travellers from Hampton Wick can reach Sunbury-on-Thames in approximately 15 minutes via South Western Railway. From Walton-on-Thames, South Western Railway services to Sunbury-on-Thames typically take around 1 hour and 13 minutes, with some faster services at 56 minutes. Ashford (Surrey) to Sunbury-on-Thames by train takes about 40-56 minutes, also primarily with South Western Railway.
For the best fares to Sunbury-on-Thames, book your train tickets in advance and consider travelling during Off-Peak hours. Off-Peak times are generally outside weekday rush hours (typically before 06:30, between 09:30 and 16:00, and after 19:00). Avoid peak times, usually 06:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM on weekdays, as trains to Sunbury-on-Thames will be busier and tickets more expensive. You can book train tickets via Trainline or National Rail.
Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Sunbury-on-Thames, public transport is a convenient option. From Staines-upon-Thames, the 216 bus service runs frequently to Sunbury-on-Thames, stopping at key locations like Sunbury Cross Shopping Centre and Three Fishes. The journey from Staines to Sunbury-on-Thames on the 216 bus takes approximately 35-40 minutes.
If you’re coming from Walton-on-Thames, the 555 bus is a direct route to Sunbury-on-Thames, with stops including Green Way and Sunbury Cross. This bus journey typically takes around 23 minutes. From Shepperton, the 555 bus also provides a direct link to Sunbury-on-Thames, reaching Green Way in about 6-7 minutes. The 557 bus also connects Shepperton Station Approach to Sunbury Tesco.
For those in Hampton, the 216 bus offers a direct service to Sunbury-on-Thames, stopping at Church Street. This route takes approximately 9 minutes. From Ashford, the 216 bus will get you to Sunbury-on-Thames (Croysdale Avenue) in about 18 minutes. The 235 bus also serves Sunbury Village from areas like North Brentford Quarter and Hounslow.
To avoid traffic congestion in Sunbury-on-Thames, aim to travel during off-peak hours, such as mid-morning (9 AM – 11 AM) or early afternoon (1 PM – 3 PM), and late evening (7 PM – 10 PM). Weekday rush hours, particularly mornings (7 AM – 9 AM) and evenings (4 PM – 7 PM), can see increased traffic, especially on routes connecting to the M3.
You can purchase bus tickets directly from the bus operator or explore options on Trainline or Arriva UK Bus.
Fun Fact About Sunbury-on-Thames
Sunbury-on-Thames, historically part of Middlesex, became part of Surrey in 1965. This ancient village, mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, is home to the Sunbury Millennium Embroidery, a massive tapestry crafted by over 140 local volunteers. A fun fact: in 1889, music hall stars formed the Grand Order of Water Rats in the Magpie pub, named after a trotting pony! Learn more about Sunbury-on-Thames.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Sunbury-on-Thames. 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 Sunbury-on-Thames driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Sunbury-on-Thames 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 Sunbury-on-Thames’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 Sunbury-on-Thames?
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 Sunbury-on-Thames’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 Sunbury-on-Thames, New Haw, Addlestone & Byfleet.
- 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 Sunbury-on-Thames? 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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Sunbury-on-Thames Driving School Services
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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 Sunbury-on-Thames
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Sunbury-on-Thames who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Sunbury-on-Thames
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Sunbury-on-Thames who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Sunbury-on-Thames
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Sunbury-on-Thames ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Sunbury-on-Thames.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Sunbury-on-Thames today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Driving lessons in Sunbury-on-Thames FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions like in Sunbury-on-Thames?
Sunbury-on-Thames offers a varied environment for learning to drive, including quieter residential roads perfect for beginners, such as Maryland Way and Silverdale Drive. You’ll also gain experience on busier main roads and dual carriageways, preparing you for diverse traffic scenarios.
Where are the nearest driving test centres to Sunbury-on-Thames?
While there isn’t a test centre directly in Sunbury-on-Thames, nearby options include Ashford Driving Test Centre. Your Rated Driving instructor will be familiar with the routes and common challenges associated with these local test centres.
How do I book driving lessons in Sunbury-on-Thames with Rated Driving?
Booking is straightforward with Rated Driving. You can easily book online via our website or by calling us. We offer flexible scheduling to fit around your commitments, and you can choose between manual or automatic lessons with a local DVSA-registered instructor.
What advice do you have for beginner drivers in Sunbury-on-Thames?
For beginners in Sunbury-on-Thames, starting on quieter roads like Maryland Way is highly recommended to build confidence. Your instructor will guide you through essential skills, including navigating local junctions and roundabouts, such as the often-busy Sunbury Cross Roundabout.
What is Rated Driving’s refund policy for lessons in Sunbury-on-Thames?
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 us within 24 hours. For subsequent lessons, refunds for payments made within the last 30 days are processed based on agreed hours and value.
Can I change my driving instructor with Rated Driving in Sunbury-on-Thames?
Yes, you can request to change your instructor if there’s a material issue, as judged by Rated Driving. We aim to connect you with a replacement instructor if a material issue is determined.
What payment options are available for driving lessons in Sunbury-on-Thames?
Rated Driving offers flexible payment options, including pay-as-you-go for standard lessons with no upfront deposit. You can also save up to £110 by purchasing lessons in bulk. All payments are securely processed through the Rated Driving app.
Are there any specific local road challenges in Sunbury-on-Thames that Rated Driving instructors cover?
Our local instructors are well-versed in Sunbury-on-Thames’ specific road challenges, including navigating the multi-lane Sunbury Cross Roundabout and understanding the 20mph zones in areas like Lower Sunbury and along Thames Street. They will ensure you are confident in these conditions.
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].
