Fast-Track Driving Crash Courses
Intensive Driving Courses in Barnstaple
Pass Your Test in Weeks, Not Months.
Need to pass quickly? Your intensive driving course in Barnstaple 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.
Recent Passes 🎉
Ready to start your intensive driving course in Barnstaple? 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
BLACK FRIDAY
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
BLACK FRIDAY
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
BLACK FRIDAY
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
BLACK FRIDAY
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
BLACK FRIDAY
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
BLACK FRIDAY
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
BLACK FRIDAY
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
BLACK FRIDAY
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 Barnstaple for your intensive driving course.
Travelling by Train
For your intensive driving course in Barnstaple, arriving by train is straightforward. Barnstaple is the northern terminus of the scenic Tarka Line.
If you’re coming from towns and villages across Devon, the Great Western Railway (GWR) operates services to Barnstaple from Exeter Central and Exeter St Davids. This route, known as the Tarka Line, offers hourly trains seven days a week, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from Exeter. Key stops on this line include Crediton, Eggesford, and Umberleigh before reaching Barnstaple.
For the best travel experience to Barnstaple, aim for Off-Peak hours, typically outside weekday rush hours (7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM) and anytime on weekends. This avoids busier services and can offer better fares for your journey to Barnstaple. You can book train tickets via Trainline or Great Western Railway.

Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Barnstaple for an intensive driving course, public transport is a convenient option. Stagecoach South West operates numerous routes into Barnstaple Bus Station, a central hub in Barnstaple.
From coastal towns, the Stagecoach 21 service connects Westward Ho! and Bideford to Barnstaple, while the 21A serves Appledore, and the 21B links Ilfracombe to Barnstaple. The 21C also runs from Croyde Bay and Georgeham into Barnstaple. For those travelling from South Molton, direct bus services to Barnstaple are available.
To avoid traffic congestion in Barnstaple, particularly around areas like Pilton Causeway and Cedars Roundabout, it’s best to travel outside of peak hours, which are generally 7 AM – 10 AM and 4 PM – 7 PM on weekdays. Early mornings or late mornings are usually ideal for smoother journeys into Barnstaple.
You can purchase bus tickets directly from the bus driver, via the Stagecoach app, or online. For planning your journey and tracking buses in real-time, download the Stagecoach Bus App. You can also explore ticket options on Busbud or Omio.
Driving Crash Courses in Barnstaple
At Rated Driving, we specialise in arranging intensive driving courses in Barnstaple, 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 Barnstaple 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 Barnstaple Driving Instructors
We’ve built a trusted team of local DVSA-approved instructors - from Barnstaple 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 Barnstaple? 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 Barnstaple - And Pass With Confidence
Master the Roads of Barnstaple with an Intensive Driving Course
Dreaming of gaining your independence and navigating the charming streets of Barnstaple with confidence? An intensive driving course could be your fast track to success, and with Rated Driving, you’re in expert hands. Barnstaple, with its unique blend of urban and rural roads, offers an ideal environment for comprehensive driving instruction, allowing you to quickly become a skilled and safe driver.
Opting for an intensive driving course in Barnstaple provides numerous benefits. Instead of spreading lessons out over months, you condense your learning into a shorter, focused period, which can significantly boost your retention and build confidence rapidly. This concentrated approach means you’re consistently engaged with driving concepts and practical skills, leading to a more efficient learning process. Plus, with local instructors who know Barnstaple inside out, you’ll gain invaluable experience on the very roads you’ll encounter daily.
Your intensive driving course in Barnstaple will expose you to a diverse range of road conditions. You’ll master the bustling town centre, navigating complex junctions and pedestrian crossings. Expect to tackle challenging roundabouts, such as the large and busy Roundswell Roundabout, where solid lane discipline is key. You’ll also gain experience on faster roads like the A361 Link Road, a dual carriageway perfect for practicing high-speed merging and lane changes. Quieter residential streets in areas like Sticklepath, Newport, and Whiddon Valley will provide opportunities to refine your manoeuvres and hazard perception. Furthermore, the surrounding rural roads and narrow lanes will test your control and awareness, preparing you for all types of driving scenarios.
Beyond the practicalities of learning to drive, Barnstaple offers a delightful backdrop for your intensive course. After a productive lesson, you could unwind with a stroll through the historic Barnstaple Pannier Market, a beautiful Victorian building with a high glass and timber roof. Or perhaps explore the remnants of Barnstaple Castle, offering lovely views across the Taw Valley. For a breath of fresh air, the scenic Tarka Trail, popular with cyclists and walkers, is easily accessible from Barnstaple. These local attractions provide perfect opportunities to relax and recharge between your intensive driving sessions.
When it comes to taking your practical driving test, the nearest centre is the Barnstaple Driving Test Centre, conveniently located at Unit 1a, Benning Court (off Riverside Road), Pottington Industrial Estate, Barnstaple, Devon, EX31 1AB. You can find more information about this test centre on the general GOV.UK practical test centre finder page: Find a driving test centre. Before you even get to the practical, you’ll need to pass your theory test. The Barnstaple Theory Test Centre is situated at Unit 1, Riverside Court Offices, Castle Street, Barnstaple, EX31 1DR. You can book your theory test or find more details on the GOV.UK theory test centre finder page: Find a theory test centre.
Learning to drive in Barnstaple with an intensive course from Rated Driving means you’re not just learning to pass a test; you’re gaining the skills and confidence to navigate the diverse roads of North Devon and beyond. Our dedicated instructors are committed to providing a supportive and effective learning experience, tailored to help you achieve your driving goals quickly.
Ready to take the wheel and experience the freedom of driving in Barnstaple? Don’t delay your journey to independence. Book your intensive driving course in Barnstaple with Rated Driving today and get ready to hit the road!

Ready To Pass Your Driving Test?
Every review tells the same story: supportive instructors who show up, build confidence, and get results.
Sergiu is a brilliant instructor with a natural talent for teaching
16/07/2024
Sergiu is a brilliant instructor with a natural talent for teaching. He can explain different manoeuvres and rules of the road in simple terms that are easy to understand and remember. Sergiu cares about his learners and is always determined to make you drive at a high standard and pass your test the first time. I would recommend him to anyone who wants to have a very high chance at passing the test (his pass rate is extremely impressive) and become a great driver!
Serg is an absolute hero, great teacher
16/07/2024
Serg is an absolute hero, great teacher. patient and understanding and will get you not only to the skill level required to pass your test but to make you a safe and confident driver. I couldn’t recommend him highly enough, he’s a fantastic teacher. I passed first time under his instruction
Sergiu helped me to pass my driving test first time!
16/07/2024
Sergiu helped me to pass my driving test first time. He’s a great instructor and very professional. I highly recommend him.

Practical Driving Test Centres Near Barnstaple
Your test centre isn’t just a location - it’s the final step in the journey.
Barnstaple Driving Test Centre
Unit 1A, Benning Court (off Riverside Road), Pottington Industrial Estate, Barnstaple, Devon, EX31 1AB
Exeter Driving Test Centre
Thorverton Road, Marsh Barton, Exeter, Devon, EX2 8FS
Taunton Driving Test Centre
Unit L2, Acres Hill Business Park, Off Venture Way, Taunton, Somerset, TA2 8RX

Fun Fact About Barnstaple
Barnstaple, in North Devon, is reputedly England’s oldest borough, receiving a charter in 930 AD. A fun fact: during an 1800s excavation, fossils of rare straight-tusked elephants were discovered in the town, with some remains now in the local museum. Learn more about Barnstaple.
Intensive Driving Course FAQ's in Barnstaple
What are the typical driving conditions in Barnstaple for an intensive course?
Barnstaple offers a diverse range of driving conditions, ideal for intensive courses. You’ll encounter urban challenges in the town centre with complex junctions and busy roundabouts like those on Eastern Avenue, as well as quieter residential areas. The A361 North Devon Link Road and the A39 Atlantic Highway provide experience with dual carriageways and higher speed limits, while country lanes around areas like Landkey will test your control on narrower roads with sharp bends.
Where is the local driving test centre in Barnstaple, and what should I expect on my test?
The Barnstaple Driving Test Centre is located at Unit 1A, Benning Court (off Riverside Road), Pottington Industrial Estate, Barnstaple, EX31 1AB. On your test, expect a mix of road types, including residential streets, dual carriageways, and challenging roundabouts such as Roundswell Roundabout. You’ll also likely perform one reversing manoeuvre and have 20 minutes of independent driving, either following a sat-nav or road signs.
How do I book an intensive driving course in Barnstaple with Rated Driving?
Booking your intensive driving course in Barnstaple with Rated Driving is straightforward. You can secure your course with a deposit via our website: http://www.rateddriving.com/intensive-driving-course/booking/. We will then connect you with a local DVSA-approved driving instructor in Barnstaple within 14 business days.
What can I do in Barnstaple between my intensive driving lessons?
Between your intensive driving lessons in Barnstaple, you can explore various local attractions. Consider visiting the historic Barnstaple Castle mound for views across the Taw Valley, or wander through the vibrant Pannier Market. For some fresh air, you could cycle or walk along sections of the Tarka Trail, which is easily accessible from Barnstaple.
What happens if Rated Driving cannot find me an instructor in Barnstaple within 14 business days?
We aim to connect you with a local driving instructor in Barnstaple as quickly as possible. In the unlikely event that we are unable to do so within 14 business days of your booking, you will receive a full refund of your deposit.
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.
What is Rated Driving’s refund policy for intensive courses in Barnstaple?
Rated Driving offers a “100% Money Back Guarantee” covering the first hour of your initial driving lesson. If you are not satisfied after this first hour, you can contact us within 24 hours for a full refund and we will endeavour to rebook you with a new instructor. For other refunds, payments made within the last 30 days are eligible based on the agreed number of hours and value between you and your instructor.
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

🏆 Pass Guarantee
Pass first time or they will refund you your £23! See test fee back! T&Cs apply
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Learner Driver Reviews in Barnstaple 🙏
See why our learners in Barnstaple love Rated Driving ♥️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Couldn’t Believe I Passed So Quickly in Barnstaple
Doing an intensive in Barnstaple was perfect for my busy schedule. I felt test-ready in no time.
Yasmin E
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fast-Track to Freedom in Barnstaple
If you’re in Barnstaple, go with Rated Driving. Their intensive course helped me pass with just 1 minor!
Caleb O
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
5-Star Experience with Rated Driving in Barnstaple
I signed up for an intensive course in Barnstaple and it was the best decision. My instructor made everything so clear and I passed first time!
Caleb J
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









































