Fast-Track Driving Crash Courses
Intensive Driving Courses in Darlington
Pass Your Test in Weeks, Not Months.
Need to pass quickly? Your intensive driving course in Darlington 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 Darlington? 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 Darlington for your intensive driving course.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Darlington for an intensive driving course, arriving by train is a convenient option. Darlington railway station is centrally located.
If you’re travelling to Darlington from nearby towns and villages, several direct train services are available. From Durham, London North Eastern Railway (LNER) and CrossCountry offer frequent direct trains to Darlington, with journeys taking around 17-20 minutes. From Middlesbrough, Northern trains provide direct services to Darlington in approximately 27-30 minutes. For those coming from Northallerton, LNER and TransPennine Express operate direct trains to Darlington, with a quick journey time of about 10-14 minutes. Towns along the Bishop Line, such as Bishop Auckland, Shildon, and Newton Aycliffe, have direct Northern services to Darlington. The journey from Bishop Auckland to Darlington takes around 26-27 minutes, from Shildon about 20-21 minutes, and from Newton Aycliffe approximately 16-17 minutes.
For the best fares to Darlington, book your train tickets in advance and consider travelling during Off-Peak hours (outside Monday-Friday rush hours and anytime on weekends). Peak times, generally 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on weekdays, can be busier. You can book train tickets via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.

Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Darlington, public transport offers convenient access. From Stockton, the Stagecoach North East service 6 and 6A buses provide direct routes into Darlington, stopping at key locations like High Street Stand D in Stockton and arriving at Town Hall, Darlington. Arriva also operates the X66 and X67 services from Middlesbrough to Darlington, via Stockton, offering frequent connections. If you’re coming from Durham, the Arriva service 7 runs regularly to Darlington, with a journey time of approximately 35 minutes. For those in Peterlee, the Arriva X21 service connects directly to Darlington.
To avoid peak traffic, aim to travel outside of weekday morning (around 7 AM – 9 AM) and evening (around 4 PM – 6 PM) rush hours, as these times can experience increased delays. Mid-morning or early afternoon journeys typically offer a smoother ride into Darlington. You can purchase bus tickets directly from the bus operator or consider a PlusBus ticket if combining with train travel for unlimited bus use within Darlington. For booking bus tickets, explore options on Arriva UK Bus or Stagecoach Bus.
Driving Crash Courses in Darlington
At Rated Driving, we specialise in arranging intensive driving courses in Darlington, 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 Darlington 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 Darlington Driving Instructors
We’ve built a trusted team of local DVSA-approved instructors - from Darlington 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 Darlington? 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 Darlington - And Pass With Confidence
Master the Roads of Darlington with an Intensive Driving Course
Are you eager to gain your driving independence in Darlington? An intensive driving course with Rated Driving could be your fast track to success. Darlington, a vibrant market town in County Durham, offers an ideal environment for learning to drive, combining diverse road conditions with convenient accessibility.
Opting for an intensive driving course in Darlington provides numerous benefits. Instead of drawn-out weekly lessons, you’ll immerse yourself in daily training, covering essential skills in a condensed timeframe. This focused approach can significantly reduce the time it takes to become test-ready, saving you both time and money in the long run. Rated Driving ensures that your intensive course in Darlington is tailored to your needs, with one-to-one tuition and flexible scheduling options.
During your intensive driving course in Darlington, you’ll gain invaluable experience on a variety of local roads. You’ll navigate the bustling town centre, including areas near Duke Street and Bondgate, learning to handle stop-and-go traffic and complex junctions with confidence. Expect to practice on main roads like Yarm Road (A67), McMullen Road, and Haughton Road, which are often part of the practical test routes. You’ll also tackle multi-lane roundabouts, such as those on the A66 near Morton Park, and gain proficiency on quieter residential streets in areas like Whinfield or Harrowgate Hill, perfect for mastering manoeuvres like pulling up on the right or emergency stops.
Beyond the practicalities of learning, Darlington offers a welcoming backdrop for your driving journey. After a productive lesson, you could unwind with a stroll through the picturesque South Park, Darlington’s oldest park, featuring beautiful gardens and a lake. History enthusiasts might enjoy a visit to the Head of Steam Darlington Railway Museum, located where the world’s first steam-powered passenger railway began, offering a fascinating glimpse into the town’s rich railway heritage. The iconic Brick Train sculpture, visible from the A66, is another unique local landmark.
When it comes to your tests, Darlington is well-equipped. The local practical driving test centre is the Darlington Driving Test Centre, conveniently located at High Point Business Park, Yarm Road, Darlington, DL1 4PW. You can find more information about this centre on the official GOV.UK website: Darlington Driving Test Centre. For your theory test, the nearest centre is the Darlington Theory Test Centre. You can book your theory test and find more details on the GOV.UK website: Darlington Theory Test Centre.
With Rated Driving, you’ll benefit from expert local instructors who know the roads of Darlington inside out, providing you with the best possible preparation for your driving test. Our intensive driving courses in Darlington are designed to get you on the road safely and confidently. Don’t delay your driving dreams any longer; take the wheel and book your intensive driving course in Darlington today.

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 Darlington
Your test centre isn’t just a location - it’s the final step in the journey.
Darlington Practical Driving Test Centre
DVSA High Point Business Park, Yarm Road, Darlington, County Durham, DL1 4PW
Durham Practical Driving Test Centre
1st Floor Enna House, Whitfield Court Industrial Estate, St Johns Rd, Meadowfield, Durham, DH7 8XL
Middlesbrough Practical Driving Test Centre
Maxwell Road, Cleveland, Middlesbrough, TS3 8TE

Fun Fact About Darlington
Darlington, an Anglo-Saxon settlement, became globally significant in 1825 with the opening of the Stockton and Darlington Railway, the world’s first public railway to use steam locomotives. A fun fact: the town’s name, “Darlington,” might derive from “Dearthington,” meaning “the settlement of Deornoth’s people,” or “town of the deer,” reflected in its coat of arms featuring three deer. Learn more about Darlington.
Intensive Driving Course FAQ's in Darlington
What are the typical driving conditions in Darlington for an intensive course?
Darlington offers a varied environment for intensive driving courses, combining urban roads with rural routes. You’ll navigate town centre traffic, roundabouts like Morton Park and the A66 Neasham Road roundabout, and complex junctions, while also experiencing quieter rural roads for higher speed practice.
Where is the nearest driving test centre in Darlington?
The primary driving test centre in Darlington is located at High Point Business Park, Yarm Road, Darlington, DL1 4PW. This centre offers good access from the A66 dual carriageway and features amenities like parking and disabled access.
How do I book an intensive driving course in Darlington with Rated Driving?
Booking your intensive driving course with Rated Driving in Darlington is straightforward. You can book online with a deposit, and we will connect you with a local DVSA-approved driving instructor in Darlington. Visit Rated Driving’s booking page to get started.
What happens if Rated Driving cannot find me an instructor in Darlington?
We aim to connect you with a local driving instructor in Darlington within 14 business days of your booking. If, for any reason, we are unable to do so within this timeframe, you will receive a full refund of your deposit.
What can I do in Darlington after completing my intensive driving course?
Once you’ve passed your test, Darlington offers several attractions to explore with your new licence. You could visit the Head of Steam (Darlington Railway Museum) to learn about the town’s rich railway heritage, or enjoy the tranquility of Thornton Hall Gardens. Raby Castle, a famous castle in the Northeast, is also about 10 miles away.
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 Darlington?
Rated Driving offers a “100% Money Back Guarantee” for the first hour of your initial lesson if you’re not satisfied, provided you contact us within 24 hours. For other refunds, payments made within 30 days are eligible based on agreed hours and value between the learner and 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

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Learner Driver Reviews in Darlington 🙏
See why our learners in Darlington love Rated Driving ♥️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
From Nervous to Confident in Darlington
I didn’t think I’d pass first time, but the course in Darlington was exactly what I needed!
Amelia J
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Amazing Driving Journey in Darlington
I signed up for an intensive course in Darlington and it was the best decision. My instructor made everything so clear and I passed first time!
Ruby Z
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fast-Track to Freedom in Darlington
If you’re in Darlington, go with Rated Driving. Their intensive course helped me pass with just 1 minor!
Freya H
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














































