Apply Now

Enter your info and create your driver profile.

Reservation Form
Driving School

Driving Lessons in Thanet, Kent

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.

Smart Drive UK is one of the leading driving schools in the Thanet area. In the years we have been in business, we have transformed many people from learners into 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. You have found the home of reliable driving instructors in the Thanet area. All our instructors are fully trained and DVSA approved.

Smart Drive UK

Awards

Enterprise-Awards-Logo

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 choose to be picked up and dropped off at specific locations?

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. One of the things that sets us apart from the crowd is the fact that our instructors have no problem with picking you up for classes from anywhere you want, and will also drop you off at any location of your choosing. 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. To find out how we can help you with this service, get in touch with us immediately.

Developing your confidence

There is nothing wrong with feeling scared the first time you get behind 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. When you go through our driving classes here at Smart Drive UK, the fear and doubts associated with driving will be properly dealt with. Over the years, we’ve developed a system that can help reduce nervousness as you develop your driving skills. We have instructors that understand how to keep you relaxed and calm during the learning experience. 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.

First time pass almost guaranteed

Most learner drivers think it is normal to fail a driving test on the first attempt. The number of people that fail their driving test may be high, but the number that passes the test the first time is also high. 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 Thanet, because we have developed a curriculum that ensures an even higher chance of 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 Thanet?

Smart Drive UK should be your first choice if you are looking for a fun and inexpensive way to truly learn to drive. This belief has informed our pricing policy since inception. Rest assured you’ll get nothing but competitive pricing when you choose us. It’s possible you might find a cheaper driving school around Thanet, 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. You can always get great deals from us, irrespective of how you book.

Driving Lessons and Courses Prices

Beginner’s packages

We have different driving lesson packages at Smart Drive UK for different types of clients. We have packages for learners with some previous driving knowledge. We also have programmes for people who have no knowledge whatsoever about driving Whatever it is you require, rest assured we have a suitable package to match it.

Smart Drive UK

Driving Lesson Prices In Thanet

5 Lesson Beginner Starter Package (Manual Only) £ 105.00

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%) £15.00
1 hour £ 30.00
10 Hour block booking £ 280.00
1 Hour Motorway £ 34.00
Intensive Driving Courses Available: PASS WITHIN ONE WEEK
15 Hours ( Previous experience 25/30 hours ) £ 405.00
20 Hours ( Previous experience 20/25 hours ) £ 540.00
25 Hours ( Previous experience 15/20 hours ) £ 675.00
30 Hours ( Previous experience 10/15 hours ) £ 810.00
35 Hours ( Previous experience 5/15 hours ) £ 945.00
45 Hours ( No previous experience ) £ 1185.00
Pass Plus – Six Hours £ 204.00

Please read terms & conditions

Prices may vary due to location and are subject to change

Automatic Lessons

£31 –  per hour

£290 – 10 Hour Block

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?

We have students who only want to learn how to drive in automatic vehicles, just as there are others who prefer to learn in only manual vehicles. We can cater to both groups, so the choice ultimately comes down to you. Whatever option you choose to go with, you will be in good company, as there are lots of manual and automatic drivers in the UK. 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). We are waiting by the phone for you.

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

Many people will tell you it’s better to pass the theory test before taking practical driving lessons. That thought process isn’t entirely wrong, as this method will give you adequate background knowledge on using a car before you actually get in the driver’s seat. As experts in the industry, however, we know that it is best to combine both theoretical and practical training. This way, you can bring what you learnt in theory practice and see how it works practically. Also, you will be better prepared for the theory test when you have started your driving lessons.

Useful Links

How long will it take to complete a lesson?

We know it is important for you to know the duration of each lesson, so as to better plan your day. The length of time spent on each lesson will depend on your learning ability, and the teaching methods deployed by the instructor. However, with our instructors, and our carefully crafted training system, you can expect to spend an average of 2 hours on each lesson. If you’d like a faster instruction programme, get in touch with us to discuss your preferences.

Smart Drive UK

How often should I have my driving lessons?

Everyone’s schedule differs. However, if you can get at least two hours of driving training every week, it will be sufficient. 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. 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?

Many individuals prefer driving lessons being received in their own car. If you intend on using your car for the driving test, we believe practicing with your own car could be a great idea. It’s also possible that you just got the car and are looking 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 we cannot provide this service if your vehicle isn’t deemed roadworthy, or if it is uninsured and unregistered. An inspection of your car to verify its valid registration, and a call to your insurance company to inform them your car will be used for driving lessons will be carried out 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. This is thanks to our flexible and fixed schedules that can accommodate you, regardless your circumstance. If you prefer a shorter training and practice programme that involves multiple driving lessons every week, we can arrange it. 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. The first time pass rate of our students is a clear indication you are in good hands when you choose Smart Drive UK.

Booking a driving lesson Thanet

Are you looking for the best place to take driving lessons? Congratulations, because you’ve struck gold. At Smart Drive UK in Thanet, learning how to drive is as simple as just booking. 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

Are you interested in manual driving lessons? We’ve got experts for 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. By the conclusion of your manual driving lesson, you’ll be able to safely change gears, control the clutch, and confidently manoeuvre through 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 our manual driving lessons cover both vehicle types

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. Thankfully, Smart Drive UK can be there to turn you into a more mature and confident driver once you successfully conclude your driving test. Your initial training will get you familiar with most major road conditions, but Pass Plus training will allow you to leave your immediate vicinity to experience the roads first hand. Do you have any questions? Call us now for more on our Pass Plus scheme.

Smart Drive UK

New Hazard Perception Test

One of the tests you’ll have to undergo before passing the UK driving test is the Hazard Perception Test. You cannot be issued a full driver’s license without passing the Hazard Perception test. You will be shown a series of videos during the test that detail regular road scenes, as well as a developing hazard. Responding appropriately to the developing hazard will determine if you pass the test. To ensure you progress to the practical driving test at the DVLA, we offer our students comprehensive preparation for the Hazard Perception test, which is a precursor. At Smart Drive UK, you’ll have access to our Hazard Perception video collection, as well as a series of revision questions.

Does Smart Drive UK offer refresher driving courses?

If it’s it been a long time since you last drove, and are in need of a short refresher course, you’re on the right website. 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. Our refresher course can, within a short while, have you confidently seated behind the wheel of a car on any major road. Need more information? Call us today.

Does Smart Drive UK offer intensive driving courses?

Would you like intensive driving lessons? It could be to prepare yourself for an interesting job position that requires driving. There could be other special reasons why you need a quick intensive driving training programme. Regardless of your reason, our skilled instructors can tailor an intensive programme to meet your unique needs. Take our intensive programme and turn yourself into a skilled, fully confident, and licensed driver fast.

Does Smart Drive UK offer advanced driving courses?

Are you looking to improve your driving skills? You probably took driving lessons or initially taught yourself how to drive. Regardless of your circumstances, we’ve got the expertise, experience, and patience to develop you into an expert driver. We have hundreds of highly-qualified drivers who have improved through our advanced driving courses to become the wonderful drivers they are today. For more information, please contact us via email or phone.

Book in bulk, save more

At Smart Drive UK, we excel at meeting the expectations of our customers because we understand their needs. For this reason, you get to pay less 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? Let us know the size of your group and what your requirements are by sending us an email.

How to make a payment for your driving lessons

Before anything else, we want to make sure our customers enjoy our services conveniently. We do this by ensuring ease of payment. You can easily write a cheque direct to the driving instructor, or you can pay electronically to the driving instructor’s account. If you prefer, you can pay in cash for each lesson you attend. As long as you have a system that works for you, we are content.

Get your license after passing these tests

Theory Test Practice

If you’re worried about passing your driving test, don’t be, as we’ve made it easy for you. Smart Drive UK makes provisions for mock theory test practice modelled after the DVLA driving exam. Pass our mock test and the DVLA theory practice test will be a breeze, as will the actual theory test that comes afterward.

Qualify for your driving license in Thanet

To qualify for a driver’s license, you will have to take 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.

Make a test booking

What do I have to do to book a test?

It’s recommended you book the driving test via the official Gov.UK website. It is more cost-effective to avoid booking through a third-party website. Before booking the driving test, you must first have passed the hazard perception test and theory test. Sound confusing? It’s not as complicated as it sounds, you’ll have Smart Drive UK instructors to guide you from day one until you get your license.

How long do the tests take?

For the driving test to be completed, you have to complete five steps, including vehicle reversing, independent driving, safety questions, driving ability, and an eyesight check. Both automatic and manual transmission is given the same treatment during testing. It only takes about 40 minutes to complete the driving test.

What you should expect on the day of the test.

Before anything else, you will show your theory test and provisional license and then prove you have good eyesight by reading a number plate from a distance. Next, you will have to demonstrate your knowledge by answering a series of show and tell questions, but only if you pass the eye test. Following this, you will have to prove your skills as a driver and let the examiner know that you are capable of reversing a vehicle and driving on different types of roads effectively and safely. The test includes 20 minutes of independent driving, possibly with an emergency stop. You can expect to spend about 40 minutes on the driving test. It is perfectly normal to be nervous during the practical driving test, but there is really nothing to it because everything you will have to do, you have already done through the course of your driving lessons.

So you have completed the test

What to expect before obtaining your full driving license

Great job acing that practical driving test. The next step is to apply for a full driving a license. Your license will be processed by the DVLA once the results of the practical driving test are in. Your driving license should be ready within about 21 days of completing the practical driving test. 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 are not done until you have been licensed as a qualified driver.

Smart Drive UK

Post-test motorway driving lessons in Thanet

The true challenge of driving begins after you’ve passed the test. You will have to deal with the reality of driving at night, in the rain and snow, and having to deal with real traffic. Not to worry, you don’t have to deal with it alone. You can familiarise yourself with motorway driving in and around Thanet with help from our series of post-test driving lessons. Get in touch with our team to learn more.

Advanced Driver courses in Thanet

Are you based in or around Thanet? Have you been off the road for a long time and are looking to brush up your driving skills? We can help you there. The team at Smart Drive UK is responsible for helping hundreds of people brush up their driving skills. Call our Thanet office today and you’ll soon brush up your driving skills and boost your confidence. You can also email or text us to find out how we can help improve your driving.

Refresher Driving Courses

You may need to boost your skills with a short refresher driving course. With our refresher driving course series, you’ll get back on the road in no time. 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.

Online Contact Form