Fast-Track Driving Crash Courses
Intensive Driving Courses in Balham
Pass Your Test in Weeks, Not Months.
Need to pass quickly? Your intensive driving course in Balham is designed to do just that - without cutting corners. We’ll connect you with a DVSA-approved instructor, map out your plan, and keep things moving fast.
With expert support, flexible lessons, and fast-track test options, it’s possible to go from first lesson to full licence in weeks! Already booked your test? We’ll work around it and get you ready.
See PricesSecure Your PlaceRecent Passes 🎉
Ready to start your intensive driving course in Balham? Request a call back from a member of our friendly team or make a booking today!

Fast-Track Driving Crash Courses

Manual & Automatic Driving Lessons

Male & Female Driving Instructors

10-Hour Intensive Driving Course
INTENSIVE or SEMI-INTENSIVE
Perfect for learners who recently failed or need a short tune-up.
Total: £650 £700£50 off with promo code
FLASH SALE
Option to add fast-track test
Pay Deposit - £250Pay Deposit - £200Pay in Full - £700Request a Callback
- Pay in full with -
💸 100% Money-Back Guarantee if we can’t secure you an instructor within 14 days.

15-Hour Intensive Driving Course
INTENSIVE or SEMI-INTENSIVE
Ideal if you’ve had lessons and want to sharpen key skills.
Total: £875 £925£50 off with promo code
FLASH SALE
Option to add fast-track test
Pay Deposit - £250Pay Deposit - £200Pay in Full - £925Request a Callback
- Pay in full with -
💸 100% Money-Back Guarantee if we can’t secure you an instructor within 14 days.

Course Typically Completed Within:4 months

Typical Course Duration:
3-5 days

20-Hour Intensive Driving Course
INTENSIVE or SEMI-INTENSIVE
Ideal if you’ve done 20+ hours and need structure to pass.
Total: £1,100 £1,150£50 off with promo code
FLASH SALE
Option to add fast-track test
Pay Deposit - £250Pay Deposit - £200Pay in Full - £1,150Request a Callback
- Pay in full with -
💸 100% Money-Back Guarantee if we can’t secure you an instructor within 14 days.

25-Hour Intensive Driving Course
INTENSIVE or SEMI-INTENSIVE
Great if you’ve had lessons but still lack confidence.
Total: £1,325 £1,375£50 off with promo code
FLASH SALE
Option to add fast-track test
Pay Deposit - £250Pay Deposit - £200Pay in Full - £1,375Request a Callback
- Pay in full with -
💸 100% Money-Back Guarantee if we can’t secure you an instructor within 14 days.

30-Hour Intensive Driving Course
INTENSIVE or SEMI-INTENSIVE
Great if you’re new and want to get the basics right.
Total: £1,550 £1,600£50 off with promo code
FLASH SALE
Option to add fast-track test
Pay Deposit - £250Pay Deposit - £200Pay in Full - £1,600Request a Callback
- Pay in full with -
💸 100% Money-Back Guarantee if we can’t secure you an instructor within 14 days.

35-Hour Intensive Driving Course
🔥 MOST POPULAR
Ideal for nervous beginners who want extra support.
Total: £1,775 £1,825£50 off with promo code
FLASH SALE
Option to add fast-track test
Pay Deposit - £250Pay Deposit - £200Pay in Full - £1,825Request a Callback
- Pay in full with -
💸 100% Money-Back Guarantee if we can’t secure you an instructor within 14 days.

40-Hour Intensive Driving Course
INTENSIVE or SEMI-INTENSIVE
Best for first-timers building confidence at a steady pace.
Total: £2,000 £2,050£50 off with promo code
FLASH SALE
Option to add fast-track test
Pay Deposit - £250Pay Deposit - £200Pay in Full - £2,050Request a Callback
- Pay in full with -
💸 100% Money-Back Guarantee if we can’t secure you an instructor within 14 days.

45-Hour Intensive Driving Course
INTENSIVE or SEMI-INTENSIVE
Best for complete beginners who want max support.
Total: £2,225 £2,275£50 off with promo code
FLASH SALE
Option to add fast-track test
Pay Deposit - £250Pay Deposit - £200Pay in Full - £2,275Request a Callback
- Pay in full with -
💸 100% Money-Back Guarantee if we can’t secure you an instructor within 14 days.
Prefer a Call Back?
Fast-Track Driving Tests
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Ashleigh – Passed with 1 Minor
“I booked my crash course through Rated Driving and it has been nothing but exceptional! I had very limited availability, but Kevin and the team worked around everything to get it sorted. I started with no confidence and hardly any experience — and in just five weeks, I passed my first test with ONE minor! My instructor was absolutely amazing. I can’t fault a single thing. From nervous to fully confident and safe on the road in a matter of weeks — I’m so grateful!”
- 🗓️ Passed in just 5 weeks – with 1 minor
- 📍 Hadn’t driven in 8 years before starting
- ✅ Course arranged around limited availability
Public Transport Guidance
Getting to Balham for your intensive driving course.
Travelling by Train
For your intensive driving course in Balham, public transport offers excellent connectivity. If you’re coming from areas south of London, Southern Rail services frequently arrive directly at Balham station, which is conveniently located in central Balham. These services connect Balham to key stations like London Victoria, Epsom Downs, Dorking, West Croydon, and London Bridge.
For those travelling from other parts of London, the Northern Line of the London Underground provides direct access to Balham, with the station having entrances on both sides of Balham High Road.
To ensure a smooth journey to Balham, aim to travel during Off-Peak hours, typically outside of Monday-Friday rush hours (7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM). Peak times can be very busy on both National Rail and the Underground services to Balham. You can book train tickets via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.

Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Balham, public transport offers excellent connectivity. From Clapham Junction, take the 35 bus to Clapham Common Station, then the 155 bus directly to Balham Station. Alternatively, a direct train from Clapham Junction to Balham Rail takes just 10 minutes. If coming from Tooting, the 355 bus from Bickley Street or the 155 bus from St George’s Hospital will get you to Balham Station. From Streatham, the 315 bus from Woodfield Avenue or the 255 bus from Streatham Hill Station provide direct access to Balham. For those in Wandsworth, the G1 bus from Wandsworth Common to Oak Lodge School is a quick option to reach Balham.
To avoid peak hour congestion and higher fares, aim to travel to Balham on weekdays between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM, or after 7:00 PM. Weekends are generally quieter before noon and after 6:00 PM. You can purchase bus tickets directly from the bus operator, use a contactless payment card, or buy a Travelcard. For more information and to plan your journey to Balham, visit Transport for London or Omio for bus ticket options.
Driving Crash Courses in Balham
At Rated Driving, we specialise in arranging intensive driving courses in Balham, helping you get on the road quickly and confidently. Whether you're looking for a driving crash course or a structured intensive, we’ll match you with a trusted, DVSA-registered instructor to guide you through.
With a clear plan, local expertise, and nothing for you to coordinate, getting test-ready can happen in as little as one week.
Why Book an Intensive Driving Course in Balham Through Us?
We only work with DVSA-registered instructors who know the local area inside-out - including the roads you’ll most likely face on test day.
Once matched, your instructor can arrange pickups from home, school or work - whatever’s easiest for you. One less thing to think about.
Rated Driving acts as your booking agent. We handle the logistics, paperwork and pairing - the instructor delivers your lessons, and you stay focused on learning.
A Smooth Journey to Passing Your Test
We believe confidence is just as important as competence - so your instructor will build the course around your pace, your nerves, and your goals.
They’ll focus on what you need most, whether that’s junctions, parking or staying calm under pressure - so no time is wasted.
Throughout the process, our support team is here if you need us. From sign-up to test day, you’re never left figuring it out alone.
Our Balham Driving Instructors
We’ve built a trusted team of local DVSA-approved instructors - from Balham and beyond - each one handpicked to suit your learning style, schedule, and preferences.
Choose a male or female instructor you’ll feel comfortable with
Learn in a manual or automatic - whichever gets you confident faster
All instructors are fully DBS-checked and DVSA-approved
Many specialise in helping nervous learners feel at ease behind the wheel
Evening and weekend lessons available for tight schedules
Where to Start?
Looking to learn to drive in Balham? Whether you prefer automatic or manual, there are plenty of flexible lesson options available.
🤔 Wondering How Many Lessons It’ll Take?
You’ll hear numbers like 40 hours of lessons and 20 hours of private practice. But the truth? There’s no magic number.
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 faster everything clicks. And when you combine solid instructor lessons with regular private practice? That’s when real progress happens.
Your journey won’t look like anyone else’s. And that’s exactly how it should be.
🧐 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-approved 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.
Getting You Connected
Once your place is secured with a deposit, we’ll aim to match you with a DVSA-registered driving instructor within 14 days. If we can’t, we’ll refund you - no chasing, no questions.
Intensive Driving Course Delivery
- 10-Hour Intensive Driving Course (Typically Delivered in 5-10 Days)
- 15-Hour Intensive Driving Course (Typically Delivered in 2-3 Weeks)
- 20-Hour Intensive Driving Course (Typically Delivered in 2-4 Weeks)
- 25-Hour Intensive Driving Course (Typically Delivered in 3-5 Weeks)
- 30-Hour Intensive Driving Course (Typically Delivered in 3-6 Weeks)
- 35-Hour Intensive Driving Course (Typically Delivered in 3-7 Weeks)
- 40-Hour Intensive Driving Course (Typically Delivered in 4-8 Weeks)
- 45-Hour Intensive Driving Course (Typically Delivered in 4-10 Weeks)
Flexible Lesson Scheduling
Your intensive driving lessons will usually run on weekday mornings and afternoons - we’ll work with your availability as closely as possible. For larger courses, they typically stretch beyond one week depending on your instructor’s schedule.
Tailored Learning Experience
Whether you're confident or nervous, we’ll match you with an instructor who gets it. They’ll personalise the experience to help you get the most from every hour behind the wheel.
Pass First Time Confidence
While no one can guarantee a pass, we partner with instructors who know how to build your confidence and sharpen your skills - giving you the best shot at success on the day.
Top Tip for Intensive Driving Courses 👨🏫
“Intensive driving courses can be a great way to learn quickly, but they’re not a shortcut to safe driving. I always remind my pupils: it’s not about cramming—it’s about retaining. Make sure you’re still getting variety in your practice: different roads, weather, and traffic conditions.
Also, be honest with yourself. If you need a little more time to build confidence, take it. It’s better to be fully ready than to rush into a test. A well-paced intensive course, combined with structured learning, can help you pass faster—and drive smarter for life.”
Shorif Kazi – DVSA Approved Driving Instructor
Master the Roads in Balham - And Pass With Confidence
Learning to drive in Balham offers an excellent blend of urban and residential driving experiences, making it an ideal location for intensive driving courses. Rated Driving Instructors provide comprehensive intensive driving lessons throughout this vibrant South London district, helping learners master various road conditions quickly and efficiently.
Balham’s diverse road network presents perfect learning opportunities for new drivers. Trinity Road and Balham High Road offer experience with busy urban traffic and multiple junction types, while quieter residential streets around Ritherdon Road provide ideal conditions for practicing manoeuvres. The area around Balham Station presents valuable experience with pedestrian crossings and public transport interactions.
Students taking intensive courses in Balham benefit from exposure to various challenging scenarios, including the busy Balham Hill junction and the complex road system around Tooting Bec Common. After your lessons, you can unwind at the beautiful Wandsworth Common, just a short distance away, or enjoy the amenities at the historic Balham town centre.
For the practical driving test, learners can visit the nearby Morden Test Centre, which is easily accessible from Balham. The test routes frequently incorporate local roads that you’ll become familiar with during your intensive course. Theory tests can be taken at the Southwark Theory Test Centre, providing a convenient location for Balham residents.
The area’s mix of residential streets, busy shopping districts, and various road layouts makes Balham particularly suitable for intensive driving courses. Learners can quickly progress from basic skills to more challenging scenarios, all within a compact geographical area. The proximity to both the South Circular and A24 means students gain valuable experience on major roads while maintaining the confidence-building advantages of familiar local streets.
Rated Driving’s intensive courses in Balham are structured to help you progress rapidly while ensuring you develop safe, confident driving skills. The local knowledge of our instructors means you’ll learn the most efficient routes and gain experience with all the challenging aspects of South London driving.
Ready to start your driving journey in Balham? Contact Rated Driving today to book your intensive driving course and take advantage of learning in this ideal location. With our experienced instructors and carefully planned routes, you could be on the road to passing your test in just a matter of weeks.

Ready To Pass Your Driving Test?
Every review tells the same story: supportive instructors who show up, build confidence, and get results.
Dedicated and goal oriented driving instructor who has a passion in his job
16/07/2024
Dedicated and goal oriented driving instructor who has a passion in his job. Sergiu is patient and gives you confidence behind the wheel. He doesn’t only teach you how to pass the test but he also teaches you how to be a safe and confident driver on the road . Keep up the good work Sergiu.
Sergiu however, is a phenomenal instructor
16/07/2024
People say that a certain percentage of the human population is not able and suited for driving. I always thought that this was true and about me. Sergiu however, is a phenomenal instructor and under his tuition I was able to become a careful and considerate driver, who passed her practical driving exam from the first go. Sergiu understood my limitations and with lots of written material and practical repetition we were able to achieve the impossible. I strongly recommend Sergiu to anyone struggling with driving and to those who don’t struggle with it at all. He is not expensive and great value for money too.
Sergiu is absolutely brilliant at his job!
16/07/2024
Sergiu is absolutely brilliant at his job! He helped my friend Sofia from Cambridge to Pass her driving test first time. Sergiu is very experienced and passionate about his job. Extremely efficient and straight to the point, fixing issues and carefully building his knowledge and skills. My other friend Toma had refresher lessons with Sergiu and build up his confidence on the motorway and I now feel very comfortable with Toma in the car. On behalf of Sofia and Toma, Sergiu is the best Instructor they ever had. I absolutely recommend him.

Practical Driving Test Centres Near Balham
Your test centre isn’t just a location - it’s the final step in the journey.
Morden Driving Test Centre
10 Tudor Drive, Morden, Greater London, SM4 4PE
Tolworth Driving Test Centre
Douglas House, 1B Douglas Road, Tolworth, Greater London, KT6 7RZ
Sutton Driving Test Centre
Helena House, 348 High Street, Sutton, Surrey, SM1 1PU

Fun Fact About Balham
Balham, a vibrant South West London area, has roots dating back to Saxon times, even appearing in the Domesday Book as “Belgeham”. Its name likely means “homestead in a rounded enclosure”. A fun fact: Du Cane Court, a prominent Art Deco building, was reportedly spared bombing in WWII because the Luftwaffe supposedly intended to use it as officers’ quarters! Learn more about Balham.
Intensive Driving Course FAQ's in Balham
How quickly can I start my intensive driving course in Balham?
After booking your intensive course with Rated Driving and paying the deposit, we’ll connect you with a local Balham instructor within 14 days. Our instructors are familiar with local routes around Tooting Bec Common and Balham High Road, ensuring you get the most relevant training for the area.
Which test centres do Rated Driving instructors use for Balham learners?
Our Balham instructors typically use the Mitcham Test Centre or Morden Test Centre, both conveniently located near Balham. You’ll practice test routes through key areas like Bedford Hill and Ritherdon Road to build confidence for your test day.
What happens if Rated Driving can’t find me an instructor in Balham?
If we’re unable to match you with a suitable instructor in the Balham area within 14 days, we’ll provide a full refund of your deposit. We maintain a network of qualified instructors across SW12 to minimise this possibility.
Are there any challenging areas in Balham that I’ll practice during my intensive course?
Your instructor will ensure you master challenging spots like the Balham Station junction and the busy Balham High Road shopping area. You’ll also practice navigating the complex roundabout system at Tooting Bec Common.
How do I book an intensive driving course in Balham?
You can book your Balham intensive course through Rated Driving’s booking page with a deposit. The booking process is straightforward and only takes a few minutes to complete.
What makes Balham a good area for learning to drive intensively?
Balham offers an ideal mix of quiet residential streets around Boundaries Road for building initial confidence, while busier roads like Balham High Road provide real-world driving experience. The area’s varied road conditions help prepare you thoroughly for your driving test.
Can I change my driving instructor after I’ve started my intensive course?
Yes. If you decide after your very first lesson that you’d prefer a different instructor, we’ll arrange the change free of charge. If you’ve already taken more than one lesson, a £100 fee applies to cover the resources involved in sourcing an alternative instructor.
Can I change my driving test booking after I’ve agreed to it?
Driving test slots are in exceptionally high demand, so please be 100% sure before you confirm your date, time and location. If you need to amend your booking after it’s been confirmed, a £195 amendment fee applies. This fee is charged by the third-party provider and is not paid to Rated Driving. Let us know as soon as possible if you need to reschedule so we can help secure your new preferred slot.
Who provides the lessons?
Rated Driving acts as a booking agent. We arrange your intensive driving course by matching you with a DVSA-approved, independent driving instructor. While we manage the booking and coordination, all driving lessons are delivered directly by the instructor, not by Rated Driving.
Unsure Which Course is Right for You?
Find out which course is right for you based on how far you have come on you driving journey. If you still need help choosing the right course, speak to our team on the live chat or give us a call on 0330 043 9896 (the same number for our business WhatsApp)
Top Tips from our Experienced DVSA Approved Driving Instructor Experts

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Learner Driver Reviews in Balham 🙏
See why our learners in Balham love Rated Driving ♥️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Zero to Licence in Balham
Doing an intensive course in Balham helped me go from zero confidence to passing first time. Every session was packed with value Id 100% recommend it!
Hazel Q
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My 1-Week Course in Balham Was Amazing
The intensive format in Balham worked really well for me. No time wasted just smart, targeted driving lessons. I passed quickly and felt confident on the road.
Yasmin A
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why I Chose an Intensive Course in Balham
I needed my licence fast and Rated Driving in Balham delivered. The structure of the course was great and the instructor made sure every hour counted.
James L
Learner guide
Intensive Driving Courses Near You
Choose a Course Package
Option to add a fast-track test
10-Hour Course
Buy Now£700 total • £300 deposit
• £400 paid to instructor
15-Hour Course
Buy Now£940 total • £340 deposit
• £600 paid to instructor
20-Hour Course
Buy Now£1,180 total • £380 deposit
• £800 paid to instructor
25-Hour Course
Buy Now£1,480 total • £480 deposit
• £1,000 paid to instructor
30-Hour Course
Buy Now£1,800 total • £600 deposit
• £1,200 paid to instructor
35-Hour Course
Buy Now🔥 MOST POPULAR
£2,080 total • £680 deposit
• £1,400 paid to instructor
40-Hour Course
Buy Now£2,350 total • £750 deposit
• £1,600 paid to instructor
45-Hour Course
Buy Now£2,600 total • £800 deposit
• £1,800 paid to instructor














































