Fast-Track Driving Crash Courses
Intensive Driving Courses in Gateshead
Pass Your Test in Weeks, Not Months.
Need to pass quickly? Your intensive driving course in Gateshead 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 Gateshead? 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
Rated Driving operates as an agent by connecting you with DVSA-approved driving instructors.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 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 Gateshead for your intensive driving course.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Gateshead for an intensive driving course, public transport offers excellent connectivity. If you’re travelling from towns like Hexham or Carlisle, Northern Rail services frequently arrive at Newcastle Central Station. From there, Gateshead is easily accessible via the Tyne and Wear Metro, with direct services to Gateshead Metro Station in just 4 minutes. Alternatively, numerous bus services, such as the Go North East 56, connect Newcastle city centre to Gateshead.
For those coming from Sunderland, Northern Rail trains offer a direct route to Newcastle in approximately 19 minutes, or you can take the Metro directly to Gateshead. If you’re arriving at Newcastle Airport, the Metro provides a direct link to Gateshead in about 30 minutes.
The best times to travel to Gateshead are generally during off-peak hours, avoiding weekday rush hours (typically 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM) to ensure a smoother journey to Gateshead. You can book train tickets via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.

Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Gateshead for their intensive driving course, public transport offers excellent connectivity. Gateshead Interchange is a central hub for bus services.
From surrounding towns and villages, Go North East and Arriva North East are the primary bus operators serving Gateshead. For instance, the Go North East X1 and X1A services connect Gateshead with areas like Washington, Houghton-le-Spring, and Peterlee. The Go North East 21 service runs from Durham to Gateshead via Chester-le-Street. If you’re coming from Sunderland, FlixBus operates frequent services to Gateshead. The Go North East 52 service provides a circular route within Gateshead, connecting areas like Wrekenton and Heworth. From Newcastle upon Tyne, numerous Go North East services, including the 27, 56, 57, and 58, offer direct routes to Gateshead Interchange.
To avoid traffic and peak hours in Gateshead, aim to travel outside of weekday mornings (7 AM – 10 AM) and evenings (4 PM – 7 PM). Early mornings or late mornings are generally best for smoother journeys into Gateshead.
You can purchase bus tickets directly from the bus operator or explore options on their websites. For Go North East tickets, visit Go North East Fares and Tickets. For Arriva North East, check Arriva UK Bus.
Driving Crash Courses in Gateshead
At Rated Driving, we specialise in arranging intensive driving courses in Gateshead, 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 Gateshead 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 Gateshead Driving Instructors
We’ve built a trusted team of local DVSA-approved instructors - from Gateshead 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 Gateshead? 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.”

Master the Roads in Gateshead - And Pass With Confidence
Master the Roads of Gateshead with an Intensive Driving Course
Are you eager to gain your independence and navigate the vibrant streets of Gateshead with confidence? An intensive driving course in Gateshead could be your fast track to success. Rated Driving offers comprehensive intensive driving courses designed to get you test-ready efficiently, allowing you to embrace the freedom of the open road sooner.
Choosing an intensive driving course in Gateshead provides numerous benefits. The convenience of focused, daily lessons means you build skills rapidly, without long gaps between sessions where knowledge might fade. This concentrated approach is particularly effective for retaining information and developing muscle memory, crucial for safe and confident driving. Gateshead’s diverse road network offers an ideal learning environment. You’ll gain experience on bustling main roads like the A1 and A184, mastering lane discipline and navigating busy junctions. For honing your manoeuvres and building confidence in quieter settings, residential streets in areas like Dunston and Low Fell provide the perfect backdrop. You’ll also tackle challenging roundabouts, such as those found near the MetroCentre, ensuring you’re prepared for various traffic scenarios.
Beyond the practicalities of learning to drive, Gateshead boasts a wealth of attractions that make it a truly appealing place to undertake your intensive driving course. Imagine finishing a successful driving lesson and then taking a well-deserved break to explore. You could marvel at the iconic Angel of the North, a towering sculpture that has become a symbol of the North East. Or perhaps take a stroll across the impressive Gateshead Millennium Bridge, the world’s first and only tilting bridge, offering stunning views of the River Tyne. For art enthusiasts, the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, housed in a converted flour mill on the Quayside, offers a constantly changing array of contemporary exhibitions. If you prefer green spaces, Saltwell Park, a beautiful Victorian park, provides a tranquil escape with its stunning gardens, lake, and even a pets’ corner.
When it comes to your practical test, the local test centre is the Gateshead Driving Test Centre, conveniently located at Waterside Drive, Dunston, NE11 9HU. This location is easily accessible, being close to the A1. For your theory test, the nearest centre is the Gateshead Theory Test Centre. You can find more information and book your theory test via the official GOV.UK website.
An intensive driving course with Rated Driving in Gateshead is more than just lessons; it’s an immersive experience designed to equip you with the skills and confidence needed to pass your test and become a safe, independent driver. Our expert instructors are familiar with the local roads and test routes, providing invaluable insights and tailored guidance. Don’t let the dream of driving remain a dream. Take the wheel and embark on your driving journey in Gateshead today.
Ready to get on the road? Contact Rated Driving to book your intensive driving course in Gateshead and start your journey towards driving independence.

Ready To Pass Your Driving Test?
Every review tells the same story: supportive instructors who show up, build confidence, and get results.
Patient and very helpful instructor
16/07/2024
I learned with Sergiu. He is patient and very helpful instructor. Passed first time.
Sergiu is an amazing instructor!
16/07/2024
Shoutout to Sergiu, the Behind-the-Scenes Hero! This wouldn’t have been possible without Sergiu’s incredible guidance and support. Sergiu is an amazing instructor, his expertise undoubtedly played a huge role in my success. Finding the right instructor can make all the difference, and Sergiu goes above and beyond to ensure his students are confident and prepared for their tests. Thanks, Sergiu, for helping me. This is a true testament to your dedication as an instructor. Looking to get your license? Look no further than Sergiu – you won’t regret it!
Sergiu is an incredible driving instructor.
16/07/2024
Sergiu is an incredible driving instructor. He is always professional, an excellent teacher and has a calm demeanour which helped to put my nerves at ease and built up my confidence as a driver. He’s always punctual, and has a structured approach to lessons which are tailored towards the learner’s specific needs/areas of difficulty. He teaches at a very high standard and his prices are affordable, excellent value for money! I was able to pass my driving test on my first attempt thanks to Sergiu. I would recommend him to anyone.

Practical Driving Test Centres Near Gateshead
Your test centre isn’t just a location - it’s the final step in the journey.
Gateshead Driving Test Centre
Waterside Drive, Dunston, Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, NE11 9HU
Elswick Driving Test Centre
Unit 2 Sirius House, Asama Court, Amethyst Road, Elswick, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Tyne and Wear, NE4 7YL
Gosforth Driving Test Centre
Sandy Lane, Gosforth, Newcastle Upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear, NE3 5HB

Fun Fact About Gateshead
Gateshead, located on the River Tyne’s southern bank, has been a settlement since Roman times, with its first recorded mention in 623 AD. Historically part of County Durham, it became a major urban centre during the Industrial Revolution due to coal and iron industries. A fun fact: Sir Joseph Swan, inventor of the electric light bulb, lived in Gateshead, and his house was the first in the world to be wired for domestic electric light. Learn more about Gateshead.
Intensive Driving Course FAQ's in Gateshead
What are the local driving conditions like in Gateshead for an intensive driving course?
Gateshead offers a diverse range of driving conditions, perfect for an intensive course. You’ll experience urban roads with varying speed limits, including busy A-roads like Askew Road and Durham Road (A167), as well as quieter residential streets in areas like Dunston Hill. Your instructor will also guide you through complex junctions and multi-lane roundabouts, such as those near the Metrocentre, to ensure you’re confident in all scenarios.
Where is the nearest driving test centre in Gateshead, and what can I expect on the test routes?
The primary driving test centre in Gateshead is located at Waterside Drive, Dunston, NE11 9HU. Test routes often include a mix of residential streets, challenging roundabouts, and dual carriageways. You might encounter areas with 20 mph zones in terraced grids through Dunston Hill or five-arm filtering at Tyne Dock roundabout. Your intensive course will cover these local routes to familiarise you with potential test scenarios.
How do I book an intensive driving course in Gateshead with Rated Driving?
Booking your intensive driving course in Gateshead with Rated Driving is straightforward. You can secure your course with a deposit via our website: https://www.rateddriving.com/intensive-driving-course/booking/. Once booked, we will connect you with a local DVSA-approved driving instructor in Gateshead to begin your tailored intensive training.
What unique Gateshead landmarks or areas might I drive past during my lessons?
During your intensive driving course in Gateshead, your lessons may take you past iconic local landmarks. You could practise navigating near the impressive Angel of the North sculpture, visible from the A1, or drive across the famous Tyne Bridge, linking Gateshead with Newcastle upon Tyne. You might also experience driving around the bustling Metrocentre area, one of the largest shopping centres in the UK.
What happens if Rated Driving cannot connect me with a local instructor in Gateshead?
We aim to connect you with a local driving instructor in Gateshead 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 course fee. We prioritise ensuring you get started on your intensive driving journey promptly.
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 post-lesson activities are available in Gateshead after my intensive driving sessions?
After your intensive driving lessons, Gateshead offers various activities to help you unwind. You could visit the Metrocentre for shopping or a meal, or explore the cultural attractions along the Quayside, such as the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art or The Glasshouse International Centre for Music. These local amenities provide excellent opportunities to relax and reflect on your progress.
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 Gateshead 🙏
See why our learners in Gateshead love Rated Driving ♥️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My Gateshead Instructor Was Incredible
I signed up for an intensive course in Gateshead and it was the best decision. My instructor made everything so clear and I passed first time!
Layla R
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Passed First Time in Gateshead So Worth It!
Incredible experience from start to finish in Gateshead. The course flew by and I’m now fully licensed!
Violet E
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Amazing Driving Journey in Gateshead
If you’re in Gateshead, go with Rated Driving. Their intensive course helped me pass with just 1 minor!
Emma T
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













































