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Driving School

Driving Lessons in Southampton, Hampshire

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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.

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Motorway Driving Lessons

Motorway confidence building lessons from £28 per hour.

Smart Drive UK is one of the leading driving schools in the Southampton area. 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.

The number of options available to you, when it is time to choose a driving school, makes it difficult to make the right choice. Smart Drive UK is one of the schools you can trust, as you are guaranteed to work with fully-qualified instructors who know how to prepare you for your driving test, and ensure you are a true driver at the end of the day. This is the home of patient, and reliable driving instructors. All our instructors are fully trained and DVSA approved.

Smart Drive UK

Awards

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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

Will you pick me up and drop me off at a location of my choosing?

If you are looking for a driving school that is capable of working around your busy schedule, then Smart Drive UK is the place to be. We take pride in the flexibility we offer to our students, as we have instructors that are always willing to pick you up wherever you may be, and ensure you do not miss your classe. We understand the need for you to only want to focus on driving training, instead of how to get to the training location and back, so we are able to, for instance, pick you up at school and drop you off at home after the session. Are you interested in this service? Get in touch with us right away.

Improving your confidence

There is nothing wrong in feeling scared the first time you grab the wheel. Even the most experienced drivers still feel slightly nervous once in a while. There are several things that can go wrong while driving, so it is normal to feel anxious. Smart Drive UK driving lessons are designed to remove the fear and doubts that are connected with driving. Our experience over the years means we have been able to create a course that addresses your fears while focusing on the enhancement of your driving skills. Our instructors are skilled and patient, and know the best ways to help you feel relaxed as you drive. Do you have more questions about our driving school? Talk to us today. You can reach us on 07760 767170.

Excellent first time pass rate

Most learner drivers think it is normal to fail a driving test on the first attempt. Although it is true that some people fail, many more tend to pass. In reality, there is statistical evidence to show that the first test is the one you will most likely pass. 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 take pride in the fact that, as a driving school, our first time pass rates are among the highest 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 Southampton?

Receiving driving lessons at Smart Drive UK is an inexpensive, as well as fun, and interesting way to get your driver’s license. A customer-friendly pricing policy is one of the hallmarks of our firm. Expect nothing less than competitive prices when you choose our service. It’s possible you might find a cheaper driving school around Southampton, 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? Are you finding booking driving lessons to be too costly? 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

At Smart Drive UK, we have several driving lesson packages to suit any situation. If you were attending a different driving school before coming to us, we’ve got a package to help you finish your education. We also have programmes for people who have no knowledge whatsoever about driving We have the perfect package to suit your unique needs, regardless of what they are.

Smart Drive UK

Driving Lesson Prices In Southampton

5 Lesson Beginner Starter Package (Manual Only) £ 125.00

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%) £17.50
1 hour £ 35.00
10 Hour block booking £ 330.00
1 Hour Motorway £ 39.00
Intensive Driving Courses Available: PASS WITHIN ONE WEEK
15 Hours ( Previous experience 25/30 hours ) £ 495.00
20 Hours ( Previous experience 20/25 hours ) £ 660.00
25 Hours ( Previous experience 15/20 hours ) £ 825.00
30 Hours ( Previous experience 10/15 hours ) £ 990.00
35 Hours ( Previous experience 5/15 hours ) £ 1155.00
45 Hours ( No previous experience ) £ 1445.00
Pass Plus – Six Hours £ 234.00

Please read terms & conditions

Prices may vary due to location and are subject to change

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 are the types of cars available for people like me?

Some of our students prefer to learn with automatic transmission vehicles, while others prefer to learn with manual transmission vehicles. Ultimately, you will determine the choice of car in which you’ll be learning. Manual and automatic cars are equally popular across the UK, and your choice is completely to your wishes. If you’re not sure what type of car fits your unique requirements, don’t worry, our experienced staff can help you make the right choice.  (please note automatic cars are subject to availability). You are just a phone call away from getting expert advice.

Is it possible to start my driving lessons before I have passed the theory test?

The common belief with the general public is that you should pass the theory test before you set out to take practical driving classes. There are benefits to this advice, as it is in your best interest to, first and foremost, understand how a car works before you get into it. Here at Smart Drive UK, however, we understand that it is best to combine both theoretical and practical training. With this, you can immediately see how the things you have learnt in theory can work in practice. Additionally, starting your driving lessons will help you better prepare for the theory test.

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What is the duration of each lesson?

Many people have a lot to do to make up their day, so it’s no surprise that you’ll want to know how long each lesson will take. The duration of each lesson depends on your aptitude, and the instructor assigned to you. However, our skilled instructors, and well-packaged training system, is such that an average of two hours each day for instruction and practice is sufficient. If you’d like a lesson schedule that is faster or slower, simply call us to discuss what you need.

Smart Drive UK

How often should I have my driving lessons?

Everyone’s schedule differs. However, it’s recommended that learner drivers have at least two hours of training each week. You can decide to keep this schedule if it suits you. Or we could help you arrange a more flexible schedule that better suits your needs. Many of our clients that have the time prefer opting for back to back training every day, so they can be prepared for their driving test faster. 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?

Certain people prefer receiving their driving training behind the wheel of their own car. We are amenable to this because we believe training with your own car can be helpful if you intend on taking the driving test with that same car. Such an arrangement could also be beneficial if the car is a new one and you are trying to familiarise yourself with it. Whatever your motive is, our experts at Smart Drive UK can have you ready for your test with training in your own car. But such a service can only be offered if your vehicle is registered and deemed roadworthy, as well as possessing comprehensive insurance. A notification will be sent to your car insurance company concerning your vehicle being used for driving lessons, and verification of the valid registration of your car can be performed by one of our instructors.

Smart Drive UK

Can I have more than one lesson a week?

We are ready to accommodate you if you have the time for more than one lesson a week. At Smart Drive UK, we have both fixed and flexible schedules that can accommodate everyone. If you want a sped up training programme that consists of multiple lessons every week, we’ve got you covered. Our aim is to have you master driving at your own pace and be ready to ace your driving test the first time you take it. Our first time pass rate is stellar, which means you are in good hands regardless of the training programme you opt for.

Booking a driving lesson Southampton

Are you in search of a polite and friendly professional to help with driving lessons? Congratulations, because you’ve struck gold. We are the trusted professionals in Southampton that can turn you into a roadworthy driver with zero hassle. You can contact us for a friendly chat, or to get started with driving lessons by calling our office today or emailing us via the website.

Manual Driving Lessons

Would you prefer manual driving lessons? We can deliver. Our competent and friendly instructors at Smart Drive UK make learning to drive a manual car both easy and fun. Our instructors know what they’re doing, and will take time and be patient when teaching you how manual vehicles work. During your manual driving lesson, you’ll be taught how to expertly manoeuvre through traffic, safely change gears, and properly work the clutch. A key benefit of our manual driving lessons is once you complete the programme, you won’t have any trouble also driving an automatic car. This is because the skills provided by our manual driving lessons will also help you drive an automatic.

What is Pass Plus?

Pass Plus is targeted to benefit UK drivers who have just recently passed their driving test. Several new drivers shy away from driving on busy roads due to a lack of confidence. But Smart Drive UK can help you build up the confidence you need to become a master of the road once you pass your driving test. While your initial training familiarises you with major road conditions, Pass Plus training will let you experience the roads outside your immediate vicinity first hand. Need more information? Give us a call today to discover more about Smart Drive UK’s Pass Plus Scheme.

Smart Drive UK

New Hazard Perception Test

Passing the Hazard Perception Test is crucial to passing the UK theory test for learner drivers. 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. Responding appropriately to the developing hazard will determine if you pass the test. The Hazard Perception Test comes before the practical driving test at the DVLA, and we have all the materials and information you need to pass the Hazard Perception Test on your first try. After practicing with our collection of Hazard Perception videos and revision questions, you’ll be more than prepared for the test.

Does Smart Drive UK offer refresher driving courses?

If it’s been a while since you were behind the wheel of a car, and are in need of a refresher course, you’ve come to the right place. Smart Drive UK offers refresher courses to people like you whose driving skills have gone rusty due to lack of use. We have several satisfied skilful drivers who were once in your shoes, but became experts in driving after taking our short refresher course. Have any questions? Give us a call today for a friendly chat.

Does Smart Drive UK offer intensive driving courses?

Would you like intensive driving lessons? Maybe for an upcoming interview for a driver job. There could be a variety of other reasons why you want to learn to drive fast. Whatever the case, our experienced and skilful instructors know how to put an intensive course together. You’ll realise that you’ve become a skillful and confident driver in no time.

Does Smart Drive UK offer advanced driving courses?

Hoping to significantly improve your driving skills? Maybe you took basic driving lessons or you learnt to drive at home. No matter what your motivation is, Smart Drive UK has the skills, resources, and experience to patiently develop you into an expert driver. Several drivers in Southampton have been able to advance their skills thanks to our advanced driving courses. Please contact us via phone or email if you have any questions.

Pay less for 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. Therefore, we came up with solutions like our discount package for block bookings. Regardless of the nature of your organisation, as long as you need driving lessons for a group of people, there is no better choice to make than Smart Drive UK. Need more information on how our block booking works? We would like to learn more about what your needs are, and the size of your group, so please send us an email.

Paying for driving lessons

Like everything else we do, we believe in giving our customers the privilege of convenience. This is why we make it easy to pay for lessons in your own way. You have the option of paying to the driving instructor’s account electronically or writing a cheque. One other option that is available to you is to make cash payments in every lesson. We provide all these options to ensure that you can pay in the most convenient manner possible.

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

Increase your chances of passing the DVLA test

Passing your driving test has just been made easier, so don’t fret. At Smart Drive UK, our mock theory test practice is tailored to the DVLA driving exam. If you pass our mock exam, you can be assured that you won’t have any problems passing the DVLA theory practice test needed for you to qualify for the actual theory test.

Take your driving test in Southampton

You can only get your driver’s license after you have taken the official DVLA test. We are confident that after attending any of our driving courses, you’ll have what it takes to pass the test on the first attempt. So many of our customers have passed the test the first time that we are confident you can achieve similar results.

Booking your Test

How do I book a test?

Go to the official Gov.UK website to book your driving test. We recommend this because you may end up having to pay more if you use third-party websites. You need to have passed the theory test and hazard perception test before you book your driving test. Can’t quite wrap your head around it? Don’t worry, our instructors at Smart Drive UK will be available to guide you through every stage of the process.

How long will it take before the tests are completed?

You will have to pass through the five aspects of the practical driving test: driving ability, safety questions, an eyesight check, independent driving, and vehicle reversing. The process is the same for both manual and automatic transmission. You will only have to spare about 40 minutes to complete the driving test.

What happens on the designated 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. Once you have passed through this stage, the examiner will test your knowledge by asking a number of show and tell questions. Next, you will be made to prove to the examiner that you can drive safely and effectively no matter the terrain, as well as successfully reverse a vehicle. You will have to drive without guidance for about 20 minutes, in which the examiner may ask you to stop to test your ability to manage an emergency. Approximately 40 minutes will be sufficient for you to complete the driving test. Nothing you encounter during the practical driving test is beyond what you have already covered in your driving lessons, so while it may be nerve-racking, nothing will be entirely new.

After the test

Obtaining a full driving license

Well done on getting through your practical driving test. You can now proceed to the next step, which is to apply for a proper driving license. The results of your practical driving test will be sent to the DVLA, where your license will be processed. You should expect to receive this within three weeks of passing the practical driving test. Our representatives at Smart Drive UK are always ready to provide guidance throughout the process of getting a driving license. Our job is only complete when you are officially a qualified and licensed driver.

Smart Drive UK

Further lessons for after the test in Southampton

While the test may have seemed tough, driving on the actual motorway is the real challenge. You are now faced with real traffic, driving in the rain and snow, as well as driving at night. However, you don’t have to go at it by yourself. With our post-test driving lessons, Smart Drive UK can help you get used to motorway driving both in and around Southampton. Learn more when you call us today.

Southampton advanced driver courses

Do you reside in or around Southampton? Are you looking to brush up your driving skills? Then look no further. The team at Smart Drive UK is responsible for helping hundreds of people brush up their driving skills. Get in touch with our Southampton 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

You may need to take a short refresher driving course. 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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