Driving Lessons in Rochdale

View other guides: Driving Lessons in London, Driving Lessons in Birmingham, Driving Lessons in Manchester.

Deciding on a driving instructor in Rochdale

When looking for a driving instructor; you need someone who:

• Builds your driving ability
• Makes learning to drive enjoyable
• Is affordable

For that reason, here are 4 easy steps to make sure you choose the right driving school in Rochdale

1. Compare reviews

Reading reviews is a great way to anticipate what your experience will be like with the driving schools in Rochdale. Be sure to select your review sites carefully - some can be a bit dodgy. Make sure you are reading reviews from legitimate customers.

2. Read the terms and conditions

Let's face it - most of us never read the terms and conditions but it’s important that you do read them carefully when booking lessons. Local driving schools can often have hidden policies especially around expiry dates for unused driving lessons so don’t get caught out!

3. Make sure you can switch instructors

Check that your driving school in Rochdalecan 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 Rochdalewill avoid sharing this unless asked. Make sure you do to avoid disappointment.

Choosing your test centre

As soon as you're ready to start thinking about your test, you'll need to find a local test centre.Your driving instructor in Rochdale 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.

Test tips from driving instructors in Rochdale

Driving instructors in Rochdale have given us the lowdown on passing the driving test first time.

1. Practise driving on rural roads

Our driving instructors in Rochdale 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.

Choosing between manual and automatic

One question you'll need to answer before you begin your lessons is: Do I want to take manual or automatic driving lessons?.

Manual licence holders are able to drive both manual and automatic cars, however, automatic drivers are stuck with automatic cars only.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. A manual offers the driver a bit more control over the vehicle - especially on windy rural roads where a gear change can help you navigate twists, turns and hill climbs more effectively.

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 Rochdale town centre, you may well prefer an automatic.

Both transmissions come with their pros and cons, so think carefully before making your decision!

Where can I find driving lessons in Rochdale

Regardless of where you live in Rochdaleor the surrounding areas, our top quality driving instructors can help get you on the road.