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Driving School

Driving Lessons in Canterbury, Kent

driving instructor teaching student learner driver

5 Hour Starter

Save up to 25% with Our 5 hour Driving Lessons Starter Package.

Student on wheel of car in driving lesson with her teacher learning to drive

10 hours Package

Save up to 10% by booking 10 hours of Driving Lessons or more.

Driving school - driving instructor and student drivers look at a tempo thirty Road sign, in the background are traffic signs

Motorway Driving Lessons

Motorway confidence building lessons from £28 per hour.

Welcome to Smart Drive UK driving school in Canterbury. Since our inception, we have quickly become the go-to solution for people looking to join the hundreds we have helped to become skilful drivers.

Given the large number of driving schools in the UK, it can be difficult to choose the right one. Smart Drive UK is, without a doubt, valuable to your learning, and you will find exceptional tutors, capable of getting you ready to ace any driving test, as well helping you to become a skilled driver permanently. You have found the home of reliable driving instructors in the Canterbury area. All our instructors are fully trained and DVSA approved, so you can be sure of the best possible service.

Smart Drive UK

Awards

Enterprise-Awards-Logo

Smart Drive UK Driving School – Awarded 2018/2019/2020

Most Trusted Non-Commercial Driver Trainer School 2020

Driving School of the Year 2019

Best for Class B Driver Training Services 2018 & Best for Promoting Road Safety by Influencing Driver Behaviour

Google Reviews

Can I choose to be picked up and dropped off at specific locations?

If convenience and flexibility is your major criteria for choosing a driving school, you will love our service. As part of our great value services and benefits, our instructors are willing and ready to go out of their way to pick you up at one point and drop you off at another, after your driving lesson. For instance, you could be picked up at work and dropped off at home after your day’s training, as long as it is in a similar area. To find out how we can help you with this service, get in touch with us immediately.

Improving your confidence

It’s only natural to feel scared the first time you’re behind the wheel. The most experienced drivers still feel nervous every now and then. There are several things that can go wrong while driving, so it is normal to feel anxious. This is why our driving lessons, here at Smart Drive UK, are heavily focused on tackling the fear and doubt associated with driving. Over the years, we have been able to craft a lesson outline that addresses your driving fears while focusing on the improvement of your driving skills. We have instructors that understand how to keep you relaxed and calm during the learning experience. Do you have a question? There is always someone available to answer your questions and explain how we can be of help. Give us a call on 07760 767170.

High chance of first time pass

If you are like most learner drivers, then you probably believe that it is normal to fail a driving test the first time. Although many people fail their first test, many more people pass. It’s been statistically proven that you actually stand a better chance of passing your driving test the first time round. When you fail a test, the emotional and financial commitment that went into the process makes it all the more disappointing. Smart Drive UK is the place to go if you are after a driving school that has the best lessons to prepare you for a first time pass. We are happy to note that we have some of the best pass rates across the UK.

Give us a call right away for the advice you need.

Please fill free to call us on 08450 179 778 or Text/Call on 07760 767170.

Smart Drive UK

How much do driving lessons cost in Canterbury?

When learning to drive with Smart Drive UK, not only is it affordable, it’s also interesting and fun. Our pricing policy has always been customer-friendly. Expect nothing less than competitive prices when you choose our service. It’s possible you might find a cheaper driving school around Canterbury, but you likely won’t enjoy the experience as much as you would with Smart Drive UK. What’s the cheapest way of booking my driving lessons? Have you been searching for a more cost effective way to book driving lessons? Our platform makes it easy to book, and you’ll have the choice to enquire online, here on our website, or call our office to do so in person. You’re guaranteed a good deal, regardless of the method you choose.

Driving Lessons and Courses Prices

Beginner’s packages

You can choose from any of our diverse driving lesson packages at Smart Drive UK to suit your unique needs. We’ve got something for learners with some driving experience. Perhaps you’re a looking to learn how to drive from scratch. Regardless of what your needs are, we’ve got a suitable package for you.

Smart Drive UK

Driving Lesson Prices In Canterbury

5 Lesson Beginner Starter Package (Manual Only) £ 105.00

Beginner Starter packages are for learners who have had no previous experience. Please Note 1 Lesson is the equivalent to 1 hour.

Manual Driving Lessons – Prices

First lesson (Saving up to 50%) £15.00
1 hour £ 30.00
10 Hour block booking £ 280.00
1 Hour Motorway £ 34.00
Intensive Driving Courses Available: PASS WITHIN ONE WEEK
15 Hours ( Previous experience 25/30 hours ) £ 405.00
20 Hours ( Previous experience 20/25 hours ) £ 540.00
25 Hours ( Previous experience 15/20 hours ) £ 675.00
30 Hours ( Previous experience 10/15 hours ) £ 810.00
35 Hours ( Previous experience 5/15 hours ) £ 945.00
45 Hours ( No previous experience ) £ 1185.00
Pass Plus – Six Hours £ 204.00

Please read terms & conditions

Prices may vary due to location and are subject to change

Automatic Lessons

£31 –  per hour

£290 – 10 Hour Block

Learn to drive with a Professional with a proven track record.

Please fill free to call us on 08450 179 778 or Text/Call on 07760 767170.

What type of car will I be learning in?

We know that there are many students that want to learn how to drive in manual cars, and there are also those that prefer automatic transmission. We have both manual and automatic cars to learn in, so the choice of car comes down to you. Your choice of learning with manual or automatic will be a smart one regardless, as both variants can be found all across the UK. If you don’t understand how each type of car fits into your specific needs and requirements, you can give us a call today and we will help you (please note automatic cars are subject to availability). You are just a phone call away from getting expert advice.

Should I begin my driving lessons before I have passed the theory test?

Many people will think about passing the theory test before taking practical driving lessons. This approach isn’t wrong, as it is sensible to first understand how a car works before you begin to drive. However, at Smart Drive UK, we believe it’s better to combine both theoretical and practical training. The combination creates a synergy which makes it easier to grasp both elements of driving training at the same time. Another advantage to starting your driving test right away, is that you will be better prepared for the theory test.

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What is the length of time for each lesson?

We know it is important for you to know the duration of each lesson, so as to better plan your day. Your assimilation speed and how the teacher chooses to deliver the lesson are the major determinants in the duration of each lesson. With our system of training, and the way we have structured our courses, however, you can expect to spend around two hours in a session. Want a quicker or slower training schedule? Call us right away to discuss your options.

Smart Drive UK

How often should I have my driving lessons?

We all have different schedules. Nonetheless, if you are a learner driver, at least two hours of driving training per week can be very beneficial. Depending on your situation, you can decide to keep this schedule. But if you’d prefer a more flexible schedule, we can arrange something for you. Such as back to back trainings each day, that will get you prepared for your driving test in shorter time. No matter what type of schedule you have, we can arrange something suitable for you.

Learn to drive with a Professional with a proven track record.

Please fill free to call us on 08450 179 778 or Text/Call on 07760 767170.

Can I have lessons in my own car?

Under certain circumstances, you might want to receive driving lessons in your car. If you intend on using your car for the driving test, we believe practicing with your own car could be a great idea. It could also be that you have a new car and want to get familiar with it. Regardless of your reason, you can count on Smart Drive UK for driving lessons and practice in your own car. But we cannot provide this service if your vehicle isn’t deemed roadworthy, or if it is uninsured and unregistered. One of our instructors will notify your car insurance company that your vehicle will be used for driving lessons, and will also inspect your car to verify its valid registration.

Smart Drive UK

Can I have more than one lesson a week?

We can provide you multiple lessons per week if your busy schedule permits it. At Smart Drive UK, we have both fixed and flexible schedule plans available that can accommodate even your busy schedule. If your plan is to speed up the learning process by having multiple lessons in a week, we can arrange that. At the end of the day, what matters is that you’re able to grasp what is being taught and can pass the driving test the first time. The first time pass rate of our students is a clear indication you are in good hands when you choose Smart Drive UK.

Booking a driving lesson Canterbury

Are you looking for the best place to take driving lessons? Congratulations! You’re on the right website. We are the trusted professionals in Canterbury that can turn you into a roadworthy driver with zero hassle. To arrange for driving lessons that best suit your unique needs, or to ask any questions, contact us via phone, or send us an email on our website.

Manual Driving Lessons

Would you prefer learning how to drive a manual gear shift? We’ve got experts for that. Smart Drive UK’s skilled and experienced instructors make manual driving lessons interesting and enjoyable. Aside from driving, our instructors will take the time to teach you about how manual vehicles work. Safe changing of gears, controlling the clutch, and confidently manoeuvring through traffic are just a few of the crucial things you’ll learn during your manual driving lesson. One of the best parts of learning how to drive a manual car is you don’t have to learn to drive an automatic separately. This is because our manual training programme covers both types.

What is Pass Plus?

Pass Plus is aimed at assisting drivers in the UK who’ve recently successfully concluded their driving test. A lot of new drivers lack the confidence to drive on roads with actual traffic. Once you’ve passed your driving test, our next job at Smart Drive UK is to help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to make you a safer and more confident driver. The Pass Plus training scheme will further help by giving you an opportunity behind the wheel to explore major roads outside your regular vicinity. Would you like to find out more? Call us now for more on our Pass Plus scheme.

Smart Drive UK

New Hazard Perception Test

You can’t pass the UK driving test without passing the Hazard Perception Test. You cannot be issued a full driver’s license without passing the Hazard Perception test. A series of videos will be shown during the test, depicting everyday road scenes and a developing hazard. Your reactions are what determine whether you pass or fail. At Smart Drive UK, we make sure every one of our learner drivers are put through their paces in preparation for the Hazard Perception Test, which is a precursor to the practical driving test at the DVLA. We will provide you access to various revision questions, as well as our collection of Hazard Perception videos.

Does Smart Drive UK offer refresher driving courses?

If you believe your driving skills have grown rusty, and are in need of a refresher course, we can help with that. Refresher courses for people who haven’t driven in a while, and would like their skills updated, are part of our programmes at Smart Drive UK. Our refresher course can, within a short while, have you confidently seated behind the wheel of a car on any major road. Have any questions? Contact us now on 07760 767170.

Does Smart Drive UK offer intensive driving courses?

Would you like intensive driving lessons? Maybe to quickly acquire the necessary skills for a job position you like that requires driving. Perhaps you have another reason for quickly wanting to learn to drive. Regardless of your motivation, Smart Drive UK has got you covered. A short time into our programme and you’ll suddenly realise we’ve turned you into a confident, skilled, and licensed driver.

Does Smart Drive UK offer advanced driving courses?

Want to take your driving skills to a higher level? Maybe you took basic driving lessons or you learnt to drive at home. Whatever your reason might be, Smart Dive UK has the competence and experience to patiently groom you into a professional road user. We have hundreds of highly-qualified drivers who have improved through our advanced driving courses to become the wonderful drivers they are today. For more information, please contact us via email or phone.

Discount on block bookings

One of the benefits of working with us at Smart Drive UK is that we understand our customers and try to meet their expectations. This is why we offer a discount package for block bookings. So, if you are an organisation looking to give your staff driving lessons, or a school looking to give a set of eligible students a beginner’s course in driving, Smart Drive UK is the right place to go. Need more information on how our block booking works? Send us an email with your requirements and the number of individuals in your group.

Paying for driving lessons

Before anything else, we want to make sure our customers enjoy our services conveniently. We do this by ensuring ease of payment. If electronic payment is convenient, you can pay into the driving instructor’s account that way or write a cheque instead. You also have the option of paying in cash in every lesson. Whichever option you choose, we are satisfied, as long as it works for you.

What tests do I need to pass before I get my license?

Practice to pass

Passing your driving test gets easier with us, as we have made provision for you to practice. Smart Drive UK makes provisions for mock theory test practice modelled after the DVLA driving exam. In order to qualify for the actual theory test, you need to pass the DVLA theory practice test and passing our mock test means you can do it.

Take your driving test in Canterbury

You can only get your driver’s license after you have taken the official DVLA test. We have little doubt that you will be able to ace the test after completing one of our driving courses. So many of our customers have passed the test the first time that we are confident you can achieve similar results.

Booking your Test

What is the process of booking a test like?

First, we suggest that you make your booking via the official Gov.UK website. You may lose money if you decide to book via a third-party website instead. Before booking the driving test, you must first have passed the hazard perception test and theory test. Sound confusing? It’s not as complicated as it sounds, you’ll have Smart Drive UK instructors to guide you from day one until you get your license.

How long are the tests?

There are five parts to the practical driving test, including independent driving, vehicle reversing, an eyesight check, safety questions, and driving ability. It is the same process for automatic transmission as it is for manual transmission. You’ll only spend about 40 minutes taking the actual driving test.

What can I expect on test day?

The first stage will test your eyesight by making you read from a number plate, but before that, you will have to show your theory test certificate and your provisional license. Next, you will have to demonstrate your knowledge by answering a series of show and tell questions, but only if you pass the eye test. The next stage involves proving that you can successfully reverse a car and drive without issue on different types of roads. The test includes 20 minutes of independent driving, possibly with an emergency stop. Approximately 40 minutes will be sufficient for you to complete the driving test. Although taking the practical driving test can be a nerve-racking experience, it’s important to remember that everything you will encounter during the process is something you have performed several times during the course of your driving lessons.

After the test

Obtaining a full driving license

Well done on getting through your practical driving test. The next step is to apply for a full driving a license. Your license will be processed by the DVLA once the results of the practical driving test are in. Within three weeks of completing the practical test, you should receive your license. At Smart Drive UK, we are always available to guide you through the process up until you receive your driving license. Until you have been officially licensed as a qualified driver, our job is not done.

Smart Drive UK

Driving lessons after the test in Canterbury

While the test may have seemed tough, driving on the actual motorway is the real challenge. You will have to deal with the reality of driving at night, in the rain and snow, and having to deal with real traffic. You can get help, instead of doing it on your own. At Smart Drive UK, we have a series of post-test driving lessons in and around Canterbury that will help you become familiar with motorway driving. Call us today for more information.

Advanced Driver courses in Canterbury

Are you based in or around Canterbury? Are you looking to brush up your driving skills? Then look no further. At Smart Drive UK, we’ve helped hundreds of individuals become better drivers in very little time. Get in touch with our Canterbury office if you would like to brush up your driving skills and boost your confidence on the road. Text and email are other channels by which you can reach us to learn how we can help boost your driving skills.

Drive Better with a Refresher Course

A short refresher driving course may be what you need most. With our refresher driving course series, you’ll get back on the road in no time. Learn more by getting in touch with us now.

Learn to drive with a Professional with a proven track record.

Please fill free to call us on 08450 179 778 or Text/Call on 07760 767170.

FAQs

Can I be picked up at a location that I choose?

We are one of the leading driving schools with regards to pick-up time flexibility. We believe it’s important to offer you flexibility when it comes to the meet up than you, and so we can pick you up at a location that fits your schedule and drop you off at another point. For instance, if you need an arrangement where you were picked up at a certain location and drop to him at the end of the day, we can help as long as it is a reasonable distance from your normal pickup point.

Do you have the right variety of cars that I can learn with?

You have a great deal of flexibility on the car you choose to drive, as we have a wide range of learner manual cars.

Need some guidance on choosing a car to learn to drive in?

We can help you decide if you would like to give us a call.

Is it sensible to do driving lessons before passing the theory test?

Often students are told by other companies that practical driving lessons shouldn’t be started until the theory test has been completed. It does make sense to understand driving and cars better before commencing practical driving lessons. Smart Drive UK takes a slightly different approach; we believe that the combination of theoretical and practical training at the same time can be more beneficial. The combination creates a synergy that makes it easier to grasp elements of driver training at the same time. Those that start practical driving lessons and then take the theory test tend to pass more easily.

How long should I expect driving lessons to last?

We understand it’s important to plan your driving lessons around your other daily activities. The length of lessons will be decided based on your aptitude and the instructor you work with. The training system that we use, and the structures of the courses we run, mean that most lessons tend to be around two hours. Give us a call if you would like lesson schedules that can get you to your goal faster over a longer period.

How frequently should my driving lessons be done?

We are well aware that your schedule is likely different from everyone else’s. However, progression as you learn to drive is best if you do a minimum of two hours per week. You need to work out whether this works for you. So, tailor the effort to fit two hours a week. You can opt for a more flexible schedule, which will be more than happy to accommodate. We can arrange driving lessons on several days in a row to speed your progress toward your practical driving test. No matter what your daily schedule looks like, we have you covered.

Is it possible to learn to drive in my car?

If you have your car you may feel more comfortable during driving lessons in it. This is not only understandable but also a great idea, especially if you plan to use the car for your driving test. If you have a new car that you are trying to get used to then this can make even more sense. We’re more than happy for you to use your vehicle for driving lessons and for practicing driving at Smart Drive UK.

However, this is only possible if the car is roadworthy, registered and comprehensively insured. Will verify that your car is right for your lessons by inspecting your papers, and your insurance company will have to be notified about the driving lessons in the car. We suggest you move lessons and your vehicle only when it is safe to do so, and we normally recommend that you begin lessons in a dual-controlled car and by your driving instructor.

Are all vehicles dual controlled?

Smart Drive UK driving instructors teach in dual control cars.

Will the driving training fit around my work and family commitments?

Yes. The training program is very flexible and Fitchett will fit around your work and family commitments subject to availability

What else can I do to help me pass my driving tests?

Your driving instructor will guide you and provide feedback, and as long as you take it on board you will have a good chance of passing your driving test. By taking notes after lessons on the feedback provided you can enhance your chances of taking on board the information. Then you can go into each new lesson having assimilated the information from the previous one. Your driver training process can also be improved by watching additional resources and your driving instructor can advise you on what to watch.

How do you know when you are ready for your practical driving test?

Your driving instructor will advise you when you are ready to book/take your practical driving test based on your progress level within your driving lessons. They understand what you will need to be able to do to partial test and will be continually assessing you against these levels

Can I do my practical driving test in the same car as my lessons?

Any fully insured car can be used for your driving test. Our guidance is that you choose to do your driving test in your driving instructor’s car, as that is what you have become familiar with.

Will my instructor be in the car during my driving test?

It is possible for driving instructors to come on the test with you [subject to COVID-19 rules]. Your driving test examiner will probably ask you if you would like your instructor to accompany you on the test. You can discuss the test with your driving instructor to decide whether it is a good idea or not. It is normally the case that automatic cars are easier and faster to learn than learning to drive a manual car.

Can a pregnant woman take driving lessons?

Pregnancy shouldn’t stop you from taking driving lessons. Talk to your doctor or medical professional if you are concerned about any aspect of driving when pregnant.

Does Smart Drive UK offer intensive driving courses?

On the lookout for driving lessons on an intensive basis

Are you looking to start a driving job?

People choose to learn to drive fast for a variety of reasons. Irrespective of your reasons, to get you through your exam, Smart Drive UK will work for you. You’ll soon be a competent, confident, and comfortable driver.

Do you want to develop advanced driving skills?

You might want this if you taught yourself how to drive or received only basic training. We can develop you into an expert driver by taking you through the advanced driving course, providing you with the skills and knowledge that you need. Many drivers in London have grown into advanced drivers thanks to our advanced driving courses. If you want to find out more information about our advanced driving courses then get in touch with our advisors today.

Are there any costs I need to plan for?

The driving lessons form the biggest cost for most people when looking to pass the driving test. You also have to budget for the test fees. Click the link below to see what the current test fees are.

Www.golf.uk/driving-test-cost

brand Private in-car lessons

As the leading driving school in the United Kingdom, Smart Drive UK offers fully personalised lessons tailored to your goals, whether you want to pass your exam quickly or take your time getting used to being behind the wheel. All of our lessons follow the Drivers Standards Agency guidelines and offer the highest standards of safety, allowing you to relax knowing that our experienced instructors can handle any situation.

brand Great Experience

Our courses are designed to build experience and confidence in all of our learner drivers at a pace that suits you. Smart Drive UK offers unique pre-lesson learning sessions ensure that once you’re in the car, you’ll spend as much time driving as possible – not talking to the instructor about driving. This approach ensures not only that you’ll progress quickly – but also that you’ll get the absolute most from your money.

brand Personal instruction

At Smart Drive UK you get to choose the time and length of your lessons so they fit perfectly into your schedule. Our instructors will take your previous knowledge and goals into account, making our programme perfect for both experienced and novice drivers alike and letting you progress at the pace that works for you. Whether you want to slowly build confidence or quickly pass your test, you can’t go wrong with Smart Drive UK!

Learn to drive with a Professional with a proven track record.

Please fill free to call us on 08450 179 778 or Text/Call on 07760 767170.

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