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Choosing a driving school in Durham
We get that you’re looking for a driving school who:
- Makes you feel confident
- Makes the whole experience fun
- Won’t cost an arm and a leg!
For that reason, here are 4 easy steps to make sure you choose the right driving school in Durham
1. Check reviews online
Reviewing an instructors online reviews is a great way to get afeel for what to expect from the driving schools in Durham. Be sure to select your review sites carefully - some can be a bit dodgy. Make sure you are reading reviews from legitimate customers.
2. Beware of terms and conditions
If you’re like most people, the chances are you usually tick the box to say you’ve read the terms and conditions even if you haven’t. But in this scenario, it’s important that you read them carefully. Some driving schools have hidden policies, like making your driving lessons expire if you don’t use them all within a short timeframe. Don’t get caught out!
3. Ensure you are able switch instructors
Getting stuck with an instructor you don't get on with can be rough. Check that your driving school in Durhamcan match you with a new instructor easily if you decide you want to swap. Not all schools will have enough instructors to facilitate this, so don’t book until you’re sure.
4. Avoid long waiting times
The last thing you want is to book your driving lessons and then find out that you can’t get started for another few weeks! Many driving schools in Durhamwill avoid sharing this unless asked. Make sure you do to avoid disappointment.
Local driving test centres
When the time is right, you’ll need to choose a driving test centre. A good local instructor in Durham will give you a hand choosing the test centre that’s right for you, and then introduce you to the routes that could crop up on test day.
To see more test centres near you, enter your postcode on the DVSA website.
Top driving test tips from instructors in Durham
Local driving instructors in Durham have let us in on their secrets for passing the driving test first time in the area.
1. Practise driving on rural roads
Our driving instructors in Durham say that rural roads can be difficult because usually, you’re permitted to drive on them at the national speed limit, but that’s not always an appropriate speed.
Take extra time to practise judging a sensible speed when on a country road.
2. Drive defensively
When you’re driving in urban settings you need to be aware that not all drivers will drive well, or even follow the highway code! Make sure that you anticipate the behaviour of other drivers and adapt your own driving accordingly.
3. Directions aren’t the be all and end all.
You’ll receive directions from both the examiner and a sat nav at different points in your driving test. If you realise you’re in the wrong lane at the last minute, it might be dangerous to correct yourself. If that’s the case, it’s fine to make a wrong turn - it’s more important to drive safely than to follow directions accurately, and our local driving instructors say that you’re unlikely to be penalised.
Manual or automatic lessons?
Are you ready to learn to drive? The first step is to choose between manual and automatic driving lessons.
With an automatic licence, you’re qualified to drive automatic cars, whereas with a manual driving licence, you’re qualified to drive both manuals and automatics. This can make buying a car an easier task as you can drive both transmissions.
Manual lessons are often cheaper as automatic instructors are few and far between. Plus, driving a manual car gives you a greater sense of control, which many people prefer in rural areas or on longer-distance journeys along motorways and dual carriageways.
That said, automatic cars are easier to get your head around - there’s no clutch to get the hang of! This means you may be able to pass faster by taking automatic driving lessons. Driving in heavy traffic can also be more straightforward as there's no clutch and gear changes to worry about. So if you're after a motor to drive about Durhams busy roads, an automatic may be for you.
Both transmissions come with their pros and cons, so think carefully before making your decision!
Where can I find driving lessons in Durham
Regardless of where you live in Durhamor the surrounding areas, our driving instructors have got you covered.
Enter your postcode to see driving lesson prices near you.