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Driving School

Driving Lessons in Cowes, Isle-of-Wight

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 Cowes. We have years of experience transforming complete rookies into not just people that can pass driving tests, but master drivers.

There are lots of driving schools in the UK today, which is why it can be hard to differentiate the valuable ones from the rest. However, with Smart Drive UK, you are guaranteed qualified and highly-skilled instructors, who will put you through your paces and get you ready for your driving test, as well as making sure you become a skilled and perfect driver in the process. This is the place to be if you are looking for reliable driving instructors. All our instructors are fully trained and DVSA approved, so you can be sure of the best possible service.

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?

Our service is for you, if you are looking for a driving school that can work around your busy schedule, instead of disrupting it. 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. 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. Like to find out more about this service? Get in touch with us right away.

Confidence building

It is absolutely normal to feel scared the first time you are behind a wheel. Even when you are experienced, you may still feel nervous from time to time. There are a number of reasons to feel anxious whilst driving, after all, there are a number of things that can go wrong. With us, at Smart Drive UK, the emphasis is always on helping you to overcome the fear and doubts that are connected to 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. 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. Give us a call on 07760 767170.

One of the highest first time pass rates

Most learner drivers think it is normal to fail a driving test on the first attempt. 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. Failing a driving test will leave you feeling very disappointed, when you factor in the mental stress and finances that went into the training. If you want to get the training that truly prepares you for a first time pass, Smart Drive UK is the place to be. 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 Cowes?

At Smart Drive UK, we go the extra mile to ensure learning to drive for you is an interesting and affordable venture. Our pricing policy has always been customer-friendly. Expect nothing less than competitive prices when you choose our service. No doubt, it’s possible to find a cheaper driving school in Cowes, but the quality of the experience will likely be less than what our experts at Smart Drive UK can offer. What’s the cheapest way of booking my driving lessons? Looking for the cheapest way to book your driving lessons? Aside from contacting us via phone, you can take advantage of our convenient and inexpensive option of booking online on our website. You can always get great deals from us, irrespective of how you book.

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. Maybe you started learning to drive somewhere else and didn’t finish, or you learnt elsewhere and didn’t pass the first time. We’ve also got something for learners starting from scratch. Regardless of what your driving goal is, we’ve got a suitable package to help you achieve it

Smart Drive UK

Driving Lesson Prices In Cowes

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%) £17.00
1 hour £ 34.00
10 Hour block booking £ 320.00
1 Hour Motorway £ 38.00
Intensive Driving Courses Available: PASS WITHIN ONE WEEK
15 Hours ( Previous experience 25/30 hours ) £ 480.00
20 Hours ( Previous experience 20/25 hours ) £ 640.00
25 Hours ( Previous experience 15/20 hours ) £ 800.00
30 Hours ( Previous experience 10/15 hours ) £ 960.00
35 Hours ( Previous experience 5/15 hours ) £ 1120.00
45 Hours ( No previous experience ) £ 1405.00
Pass Plus – Six Hours £ 228.00

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 car will I be learning in?

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. Ultimately, you will determine the choice of car in which you’ll be learning. Both manual and automatic cars are common on UK roads, and either choice will work well for whatever you need it for. 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). Call us right away to get started.

Should I begin 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 is nothing wrong with this, as it makes sense to understand how a car works before you get into the driver’s seat. As experts in the industry, however, we know that it is best to combine both theoretical and practical training. This combination means you can quickly see how the theoretical concepts are applicable in real life. 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 duration of each lesson?

We know you’d like to find out how long it will take you to complete a lesson, so you can better plan your day. 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, 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?

We all have different schedules. However, if you can get at least two hours of driving training every week, it will be sufficient. If it suits your needs, you can continue your training following this schedule. If, however, you want a more flexible schedule, we are always willing to accommodate you. For example, we could arrange for back to back training every day that will speed up your training and have you prepared for your driving test faster. Whatever your schedule is, we’ve got you covered.

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. Regardless of what your motive might be, Smart Drive UK can deliver driving lessons 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 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. Our impressive first time pass rate is a clear sign of our capability to make you a roadworthy driver within your preferred time frame.

Booking a driving lesson Cowes

Do you need a friendly professional to help you pass your driving test the first time? Congratulations! You’ve found it. If you are in Cowes, learning how to drive is as easy as signing up with Smart Drive UK. 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

Are you interested in manual driving lessons? We can take care of that. Our experienced and professional instructors at Smart Drive UK make learning to drive manual not just easy, but also enjoyable. Aside from driving, your assigned instructor will share with you crucial knowledge about manual vehicles, that will positively impact your future driving experience. You’ll learn from the experts how to safely change gears, control the clutch, and confidently drive in traffic. The best thing about manual driving lessons is that you don’t need to learn how to drive 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. 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. 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. Interested in more information? 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

The Hazard Perception Test is essential for UK learner drivers looking to pass the driving theory exam. It is a compulsory test that has to be passed before you can be granted a full driver’s license. You will be shown a series of videos during the test that detail regular road scenes, as well as a developing hazard. You have to provide appropriate responses to the developing hazard in order to 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. Rest assured you’ll be fully prepared, especially after practicing with our collection of Hazard Perception videos and revision questions.

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 provides refresher courses to individuals who haven’t had the chance to drive for a long time and have lost confidence in their driving ability. We have several satisfied skilful drivers who were once in your shoes, but became experts in driving after taking our short refresher course. Want to know more? Call our office today.

Does Smart Drive UK offer intensive driving courses?

Are you looking to take intensive driving lessons? It could be to prepare yourself for an interesting job position that requires driving. 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. In no time, we can train you to be a skilful, fully confident, and licensed driver.

Does Smart Drive UK offer advanced driving courses?

Looking to advance 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 CowesX, we’ve recorded great success at upgrading the basic skills of many drivers to advanced levels. For more information, please contact us via email or phone.

Enjoy savings on block bookings

Knowing our customers and what their expectations are is at the core of what we do here at Smart Drive UK. 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. Would you like to learn more about our block booking offer? All you have to do is shoot us an email with the number of people who need driving lessons, as well as any special requirements they may have.

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. Whether you would like to pay electronically or prefer to write a cheque, you are free to make payments whichever way is easier for you. You are also permitted to make cash payments in each lesson. As long as you have a system that works for you, we are content.

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

Mock theory test

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. As long as you can pass this, you can pass the DVLA theory practice test, which is required before you can take the actual theory test. 

Take your driving test in Cowes

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. We have an excellent first time pass rate that can be affirmed by hundreds of our satisfied customers.

Booking your Test

How do I book a test?

It is best to book your driving test directly via 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. Sound complicated? Don’t worry, our instructors at Smart Drive UK will be available to guide you through every stage of the process.

How long will I have to wait to complete the test?

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’ll only spend about 40 minutes taking the actual driving test.

What you should expect on the day of the test.

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. If you pass this stage, you will be asked a series of ‘show and tell’ questions by the examiner to demonstrate your knowledge. 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. 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. The driving test will last around 40 minutes. Remember that while the practical driving test can be nerve-racking, all you will be asked to do has already been covered as you went through your driving course.

What to do after the test

What to expect before obtaining your full driving license

Congratulations on passing your practical driving test. You can now proceed to the next step, which is to apply for a proper driving license. The examiner will send the results of your practical driving test to the DVLA, who will process your license. Within three weeks of completing the practical test, you should receive your license. From day one, to the day you get your driving license, Smart Drive UK is always ready to guide you through the process. It is only when you have become a licensed and qualified driver that we can dust our hands.

Smart Drive UK

Cowes post-test motorway driving lessons

Passing the test is the easy part, the real challenge is when you start driving. The traffic, night driving, and driving in rain and snow are now a reality. 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 Cowes. Call us today for more information.

Further driving courses for advanced drivers in Cowes

Do you intend to drive in or around Cowes? Do your driving skills need a bit of brushing up? Let’s help you brush them up. Within a short timeframe, hundreds of drivers have gotten better on the road by taking Smart Drive UK courses. Get in touch with our Cowes office if you would like to brush up your driving skills and boost your confidence on the road. Other channels of communication are also open to you, including text and email.

Driving Courses to Refresh Your Knowledge

You may need to take a short refresher driving course. We have designed refresher driving courses to help you get back on the road. Discover our refresher courses and more when you call us today.

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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