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Driving School

Driving Lessons in Thatcham, Berkshire

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.

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Motorway Driving Lessons

Motorway confidence building lessons from £28 per hour.

Welcome to Smart Drive UK driving school in Thatcham. Over the years, we’ve helped hundreds of successful learners pass their driving test and go on to become highly-skilled drivers.

It can be a herculean task to pick a driving school to work with in the UK, due to the sheer number of options available to you. At Smart Drive UK, you can be certain of working with a range of highly-skilled driving tutors who know what it takes to prepare a student for, not just passing a driving test, but also for life as a regular and high-functioning driver. If you’re looking for a patient, reliable driving instructor, then your search ends here. When you choose us for your driving training, you are choosing a driving school completely manned by DVSA approved professionals.

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

Can I be picked up and dropped off in a different place?

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. 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. Want to discuss how we can help you with this? Get in touch with us immediately.

Enhancing your confidence

There is nothing wrong with feeling scared the first time you get behind the wheel. The most experienced drivers also feel nervous from time to time. 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. Today, we have developed a system that is focused on helping you to develop your driving skills while tackling your nervousness. All through the driving classes, our instructors will have you feeling calm, relaxed, and comfortable, three things you will carry with you for the rest of your driving life. Do you have a question? There is always someone available to answer your questions and explain how we can be of help. You can reach us on 07760 767170.

Excellent first time pass rate

Many learner drivers believe that it is perfectly fine to fail the driving test the first time. The fact is, there is no guarantee that you will fail your first test, because many people have also passed. 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 one of the leading names in the driving school niche in Thatcham, because we have developed a curriculum that ensures an even higher chance of a first time pass. We are delighted with the fact that we have some of the best pass rates in 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 Thatcham?

When learning to drive with Smart Drive UK, not only is it affordable, it’s also interesting and fun. A customer-friendly pricing policy is one of the hallmarks of our firm. Rest assured you’ll get nothing but competitive pricing when you choose us. It’s possible you might find a cheaper driving school around Thatcham, 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. Smart Drive UK offers a great deal regardless of how you book.

Driving Lessons and Courses Prices

Beginner’s packages

At Smart Drive UK, we have several driving lesson packages to suit any situation. We’ve got something for learners with some driving experience. We’ve also got something for learners starting from scratch. Regardless of what your needs are, we’ve got a suitable package for you.

Smart Drive UK

Driving Lesson Prices In Thatcham

5 Lesson Beginner Starter Package (Manual Only) £ 150.00

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%) £19.50
1 hour £ 39.00
10 Hour block booking £ 370.00
1 Hour Motorway £ 45.00
Intensive Driving Courses Available: PASS WITHIN ONE WEEK
15 Hours ( Previous experience 25/30 hours ) £ 555.00
20 Hours ( Previous experience 20/25 hours ) £ 740.00
25 Hours ( Previous experience 15/20 hours ) £ 925.00
30 Hours ( Previous experience 10/15 hours ) £ 1110.00
35 Hours ( Previous experience 5/15 hours ) £ 1295.00
45 Hours ( No previous experience ) £ 1630.00
Pass Plus – Six Hours £ 270.00

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 type of cars do you have for learners?

Over the years, we have seen people who prefer to only learn in automatic vehicles, and we have also seen people that love the manual stick. We can cater to both groups, so the choice ultimately comes down to you. Your choice will work well, regardless of what you need it for, because both manual cars and automatic are common on UK roads. 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.

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

Generally, you will be advised to pass the theory test before you go for your practical driving lessons. This system has it benefits, as you will then know enough about using a car before getting behind the wheel. However, at Smart Drive UK, we believe it’s better to combine both theoretical and practical training. This combination means you can quickly see how the theoretical concepts are applicable in real life. In addition, someone that is already experienced in driving lessons will have a higher chance of success when it is time for the theory test.

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What is the length of time for each lesson?

You probably combine a variety of activities over your day, so you’ll want to find out how long it will take to complete a lesson. The length of time it will take to complete one lesson is dependent on your learning ability and how the teacher chooses to deliver the lesson. However, with our instructors, and our carefully crafted training system, you can expect to spend an average of 2 hours on each lesson. 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 are well aware that your schedule is likely different from everyone else’s. Nonetheless, if you are a learner driver, at least two hours of driving training per week can be very beneficial. If you like, you can choose to maintain this schedule. If, however, you want a more flexible schedule, we are always willing to accommodate you. If you prefer back to back training each day, this can speed up your learning process, and help you prepare for the driving test that little bit 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?

Many individuals prefer driving lessons being received in 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. It might also be the case of you owning a new car and trying to familiarise yourself with it. Regardless of your reason, you can count on Smart Drive UK for driving lessons and practice 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. This will be verified through an inspection of your papers by our instructors, and after your insurance company has been notified that the car will be used for driving lessons.

Smart Drive UK

Can I have more than one lesson a week?

If your schedule allows for more than one lesson a week, then there’s no reason not to take advantage. Our Smart Drive UK fixed and flexible schedule plans can be personalised to suit even the busiest individual’s schedule. If you prefer a shorter training and practice programme that involves multiple driving lessons every week, we can arrange it. Our priority is that you learn at a pace you are most comfortable with and are prepared in time to take and pass your driving test on the first try. We have a very impressive first time pass rate, so you’re in reliable hands no matter your schedule or learning speed.

Booking a driving lesson Thatcham

Have you been searching for the perfect place for driving lessons? Congratulations, because you’ve struck gold. If you are in Thatcham, learning how to drive is as easy as signing up with Smart Drive UK. To get started on booking for lessons that best suit your schedule, or for any other enquiries, call us now for a friendly chat, or send us an email via our website.

Manual Driving Lessons

Are manual driving lessons what you are interested in? We can take care of that. When working with our skilled and experienced instructors, manual driving lessons become easy and enjoyable. Every one of our instructors is an experienced professional who will take the time to share with you important details concerning driving a manual car. By the conclusion of your manual driving lesson, you’ll be able to safely change gears, control the clutch, and confidently manoeuvre through traffic. 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. Our manual driving lessons will instruct you on both vehicle types.

What is Pass Plus?

Pass Plus is targeted to benefit UK drivers who have just recently passed their driving test. Many new drivers face the challenge of building up their confidence to drive on public roads. Fortunately, once your driving test has been passed, Smart Drive UK can be there for you by providing you everything you need to be a safe and confident driver on any road. Pass Plus training lets you leave your usual roads to experience other roads first hand, after your initial training has familiarised you with major road conditions. Do you have any questions? Find out more about our Pass Plus scheme and how it can help you by calling us now.

Smart Drive UK

New Hazard Perception Test

You can’t pass the UK driving test without passing the Hazard Perception Test. The test is mandatory and will determine if you are qualified for a full driver’s license This test involves a series of videos, detailing everyday road scenes and, in one case, a developing hazard. Your reactions are what determine whether you pass or fail. As part of our training at Smart Drive UK, we offer comprehensive preparation to all our students for the Hazard Perception Test, which comes before 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 it has been a while since you had the opportunity to drive and would like a refresher course, we’ve got you covered. 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. Many drivers have, over the years, benefited from our short refresher course and you can too. Have any questions? Contact us now on 07760 767170.

Does Smart Drive UK offer intensive driving courses?

Looking for intensive driving lessons? Maybe you have an upcoming interview for a job that requires you to drive. Perhaps you have another reason for quickly wanting to learn to drive. Regardless of what your reason is, we can help. In no time, we can train you to be a skilful, fully confident, and licensed driver.

Does Smart Drive UK offer advanced driving courses?

Are you looking to improve your driving skills? Maybe you took basic driving lessons or you learnt to drive at home. Whatever your reasons, at Smart Drive UK, we have the skills, experience and patience to help you build your knowledge and confidence, to the point where you’re considered an expert driver. In ThatchamX, we’ve recorded great success at upgrading the basic skills of many drivers to advanced levels. Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.

Book in bulk, save more

At Smart Drive UK, we excel at meeting the expectations of our customers because we understand their needs. One of the ways we meet your needs is to offer packages that let you pay less, like our discounted bundle for block bookings. Our package is right for you, whether your school would like to provide a driving course for eligible students, or your company needs to provide driving lessons for staff. Would you like to learn more about our block booking offer? Let us know the size of your group and what your requirements are by sending us an email.

Ready to pay for driving lessons?

We strive to make every step of the process as convenient as possible for our customers, much like everything else we do. It is for this reason that we ensure that paying for lessons is super easy. You can easily write a cheque direct to the driving instructor, or you can pay electronically to the driving instructor’s account. 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

Why worry about passing your driving test when we have a solution to make it as easy as can be. With Smart Drive UK, you can practice before the DVLA driving exam in order to ensure you are prepared. Pass our mock test and the DVLA theory practice test will be a breeze, as will the actual theory test that comes afterward.

Driving Test Thatcham

The driving test is the official DVLA test you have to take before obtaining your driver’s license. Taking any of our driving courses is certain to equip you with the knowledge required to sail through the test the first time. Our customers have proven that our courses are likely to result in a first time pass.

Booking your driving test

Where do I go to book a test?

The best way to book your driving test is to do so through the official Gov.UK website. We recommend this because you may end up having to pay more if you use third-party websites. You should only book your driving test if you have already passed the hazard perception test and the theory test. Not clear enough? 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?

The practical driving test is broken into five parts: an eyesight check, safety questions, driving ability, vehicle reversing, and independent driving. You will have to complete the steps in the same manner, whether you are working with automatic or manual transmission. You will only have to spare about 40 minutes to complete the driving test.

It’s test day, now what?

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. The next stage involves proving that you can successfully reverse a car and drive without issue on different types of roads. The examiner will ask you to drive on your own for about 20 minutes and, along the way, may ask you to complete 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.

What follows after the test?

Obtaining a full driving license

Well done, you have successfully completed your practical driving test. This means you are now qualified 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. Within three weeks of completing the practical test, you should receive your license. In order to ensure you have all the assistance you need, we at Smart Drive UK are always available to guide you through the process of obtaining a driving license. We will only have carried out our mandate when you have become a qualified and licensed driver.

Smart Drive UK

Thatcham post-test motorway driving lessons

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 don’t have to handle this on your own. At Smart Drive UK, we have a series of post-test driving lessons in and around Thatcham that will help you become familiar with motorway driving. Find out all you need to know when you contact us today for more information.

Courses for advanced driving in Thatcham

Are you in Thatcham? Do your driving skills need a bit of brushing up? We can help you there. Hundreds of drivers have improved their skills within a short period of time by taking driving lessons at Smart Drive UK. Call our Thatcham office today and you’ll soon brush up your driving skills and boost your confidence. Other channels of communication are also open to you, including text and email.

Booster Driving Courses

Taking a short refresher course may be the right move for you. With our refresher driving course series, you’ll get back on the road in no time. Call us today for more information.

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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