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Driving Lessons in Highbury
Book your Highbury driving lessons today – call 0330 0439896
Why Thousands of Learners Choose Rated Driving
1,600+ DVSA-Registered Instructors Nationwide
We’ll connect you with a local, male or female DVSA-registered expert in Highbury who knows your area and how to get you test-ready.
Matched in Minutes, Not Days
Tell us where you are and when you're free - we’ll match you with a local instructor in the Rated Driving app.
4.9/5 on Google & Trustpilot
Thousands of learners have already done it. Read their stories and picture yourself next.
Pass Your Test With The Best 🎉
Ready to join the learners passing their driving tests with Rated Driving?
Autumn Savings Are Here!
Autumn Sale!
This autumn, we're offering fantastic deals to help you hit the road:
- Save up to £110 on driving lessons when you book a 40-hour block.
- Earn £10 cashback for every paying friend you refer, directly to your bank or PayPal.
- Enjoy a 4.5% discount when you book 30 hours or more.
Take advantage of these seasonal savings and start your journey today!
Why Choose Rated Driving for Driving Lessons in Highbury?
Whether you're learning from scratch or helping someone else get started, finding the right instructor can feel overwhelming. That’s where we step in. At Rated Driving, we connect you with trusted DVSA-registered instructors who know Highbury’s roads inside out - so you can learn faster and pass with confidence.
- Local Experts, Ready to Go:
Over 341 DVSA-registered driving instructors across London including Highbury, West Kensington, West Ealing & West Acton.
- Pick What Works for You: Male or female instructors. Manual or automatic. You choose - we arrange.
- All Types of Lessons: Including Pass Plus & motorway driving lessons
- Reviews You Can Trust: Over 20,000 learners passed through us. Rated Excellent on Trustpilot (4.8/5) and Google (4.9/5).
- No Match? No Risk: We want all our learners to have a great experience with us, if you are not happy after your first lesson, let us know and we will refund you with our money-back guarantee. (T&C’s apply).
- Track Everything in the App: Use our award-winning app to manage bookings, log progress and prep for test day.
Our Highbury driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Highbury and surrounding areas, carefully selected to match your learning style, schedule, and preferences.
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Choose a male or female instructor you’ll feel comfortable with
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Local-route experts – every instructor knows Highbury’s test routes inside out
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Multi-language support – several instructors teach in additional languages
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Learn in a manual or automatic - whichever gets you confident faster
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All instructors are fully DBS-checked and DVSA-registered
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Many specialise in helping nervous learners feel at ease behind the wheel
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Evening and weekend lessons available for tight schedules
Where to start?
Looking to learn to drive in Highbury? Whether you prefer automatic or manual, there are plenty of flexible lesson options available. Simply type in your postcode and submit your enquiry to be matched with a expert local DVSA-registered driving instructor in your area.
🤔 How many driving lessons will I need?
The DVSA says most people need about 40 hours of professional lessons, plus private practice. We'll help tailor your schedule to build confidence efficiently.
- The DVSA recommends about 45 hours of professional lessons and 22 hours of private practice for most learners.
- Some learners feel confident sooner, others need more time.
- Your instructor will monitor your progress and advise when you’re test-ready.
- Practice regularly for the best results.
- Everyone learns at their own pace.
Some learners feel test-ready in 30 hours. Others need more time to build confidence behind the wheel. What really matters isn’t the total - it’s the consistency.
The more often you drive, the more natural it becomes. Combining quality instructor lessons with regular practice builds confidence quickly.
Every learner progresses at their own pace, and that’s perfectly normal. Your instructor will adapt to your comfort level and guide you through each step with patience.
🧐 How to prepare for your first driving lesson
Getting ready for your first driving lesson is an exciting step - and a bit of preparation can help you feel more confident and relaxed on the day. Here’s a simple guide to help you make the most of it:
1. Check Your Provisional Licence
Before your lesson, make sure you have a valid provisional driving licence. Your instructor will need to see it to confirm you’re legally allowed to drive.
2. Get Familiar with the Basics
Take a few minutes to learn the basic layout of a car - the pedals, gear stick, steering wheel, and mirrors. Watching a short video or reading a beginner’s guide can help you feel more prepared.
3. Choose Comfortable Clothing
Wear clothes that allow you to move freely and flat-soled shoes that give you good control of the pedals. Avoid anything bulky or restrictive.
4. Bring the Essentials
Have your provisional licence with you, along with glasses or contact lenses if you need them to drive. A bottle of water is also a good idea to stay hydrated.
5. Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Feeling well-rested will help you stay focused and alert throughout your lesson.
6. Brush Up on the Highway Code
A quick review of key road signs, speed limits, and basic driving rules can give you a boost in confidence before you get behind the wheel. [download The Highway Code 2025 PDF]
7. Keep Your Expectations Realistic
Your first lesson is all about getting familiar with the car and starting to build your skills. Don’t worry about getting everything perfect - take it one step at a time.
With the right preparation and a calm mindset, you’ll be off to a great start.
🙏 What to expect on your first driving lesson
Your first driving lesson is a key milestone - it's where everything begins. The goal is to help you feel comfortable, introduce you to the car, and give you your first taste of driving. Here’s what typically happens during your first session:
1. Meet Your Instructor
You’ll meet your DVSA-registered driving instructor, who will check your provisional licence and have a quick chat about any experience or knowledge you already have.
2. Go Through the Cockpit Drill (DSSSM)
Before driving, you'll go through a quick safety routine to get set up properly:
- Doors - Make sure all doors are securely closed.
- Seat - Adjust your seat so you can reach the pedals comfortably.
- Steering - Adjust the steering wheel to suit your position.
- Seatbelt - Buckle up for safety.
- Mirrors - Position your mirrors for a clear view around the car.
3. Learn the Basic Car Controls
Your instructor will show you the key controls, including:
- Accelerator, brake, and clutch (if you're learning in a manual)
- Gear stick, handbrake, and indicators
- Other essentials like lights and wipers
4. Practice Moving Off and Stopping
You’ll start with the basics:
- How to start the engine safely
- Checking mirrors and blind spots
- Moving off smoothly and bringing the car to a controlled stop
5. Drive on Quiet Roads
If you're ready, your instructor may take you to a quiet area to practice simple driving skills like steering, gear changes, and stopping calmly.
6. Feedback and Next Steps
At the end of the lesson, your instructor will talk you through what went well and what to work on next time. This feedback helps you build confidence and track your progress.
Learning to drive in Highbury
Highbury is ideal for learners. Quiet back roads build confidence, while busy town centres sharpen practical skills.
- Town Centre Navigation: Tackle busy high streets, junctions and roundabouts - ideal for building confidence and quick decision-making.
- Residential Skills: Hone your skills on clutch control tips by practicing on quiet residential roads for skill-building.
- Dual Carriageway Experience: Get used to faster roads and lane discipline - including how to join, exit and keep calm at speed.
- Rural Roads: Practice tight bends, blind spots and country lanes - all great for sharpening your awareness and reactions.
- Test Route Familiarity: Your instructor will help you cover local test routes in Highbury, so you’ll know what to expect and how to handle each section without second guessing.
Learning to drive is a significant milestone, and choosing the right location for your lessons can make all the difference. Highbury, with its unique blend of urban bustle and quieter residential pockets, offers an ideal environment for learner drivers to gain confidence and master essential skills. Rated Driving provides comprehensive driving lessons in Highbury, tailored to help you navigate the local roads with ease and prepare you thoroughly for your practical test.
One of the key benefits of taking driving lessons in Highbury is the sheer variety of driving conditions you’ll encounter. This diverse landscape ensures you’re well-prepared for anything the road throws at you. You’ll gain valuable experience on main thoroughfares like Holloway Road and St Paul’s Road, learning to handle traffic flow and complex junctions. For practicing manoeuvres and building confidence in quieter settings, your Rated Driving instructor will guide you through the charming residential streets around Highbury Barn and the areas surrounding Highbury Fields. While Highbury itself doesn’t have many large roundabouts or dual carriageways, your instructor will ensure you get practice on nearby examples to cover all aspects of the driving test syllabus.
Beyond the practicalities of learning, Highbury offers a vibrant backdrop to your driving journey. Imagine finishing a successful lesson and then taking a relaxing stroll through the expansive Highbury Fields, Islington’s largest park, perfect for unwinding and reflecting on your progress. For sports enthusiasts, the iconic Emirates Stadium, home to Arsenal Football Club, is a prominent landmark in Highbury, and you might even catch a glimpse of the buzz on match days. The area also boasts the historic Highbury Barn, a charming hub with independent shops and eateries, perfect for a post-lesson coffee or a bite to eat. Highbury’s excellent transport links, particularly Highbury & Islington station, make it incredibly convenient for lessons, ensuring accessibility for all learners.
When it comes to the practical driving test, while there isn’t a test centre directly in Highbury, your Rated Driving instructor will be familiar with the routes and conditions of nearby centres. The closest practical driving test centres often used by learners in Highbury include Wood Green Driving Test Centre and Tottenham Driving Test Centre, both located in the neighbouring borough of Haringey. Your instructor will ensure you are well-prepared for the specific challenges of these areas. For your theory test, as Islington does not have its own dedicated centre, learners typically travel to nearby locations such as the Southwark Theory Test Centre (near London Bridge) or the Southgate Theory Test Centre. You can find more information on practical and theory test centres on the official GOV.UK website: Find a driving test centre and Find a theory test centre.
Choosing Rated Driving for your lessons in Highbury means opting for a personalised and effective learning experience. Our instructors are experts in the Highbury area, providing you with the local knowledge and practical skills needed to pass your test and become a confident, safe driver. Don’t delay your journey to driving independence. Take the wheel in Highbury and book your driving lessons with Rated Driving today.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Highbury
Wood Green Driving Test Centre
Wood Green Crown Court, Woodhall House, Lordship Lane, Haringey, Wood Green, Greater London, N22 5LF
Tottenham Practical Test Centre
Driving Test Centre Tottenham Annex Building, Selby Centre, Selby Road, Tottenham, N17 8JL
Wanstead (London) Driving Test Centre
20 Devon House, Hermon Hill, Wanstead, London, E11 2AW
Unsure Which Package is Right for You?
Not sure how many hours you need? We’ve broken it down to help you choose based on where you're at. Still stuck? Speak to our team on the live chat or give us a call on 0330 043 9896 (the same number for our business WhatsApp)
Public Transport Guidance
Getting to Highbury for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Highbury for lessons, public transport is efficient. Highbury & Islington station is a major hub, offering excellent connections.
If you’re coming from areas served by Great Northern, such as Cambridge or Ely, direct services will bring you to Highbury & Islington. London Overground services, including the Mildmay Line and Windrush Line, also connect to Highbury & Islington from various parts of London, such as West Croydon, Crystal Palace, Richmond, and Stratford. The Victoria Line also serves Highbury & Islington, connecting from central London and beyond.
For optimal travel to Highbury, aim for Off-Peak hours, typically outside Monday-Friday rush hours (7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM). Weekends are generally considered Off-Peak. Booking tickets in advance can also secure better fares for your journey to Highbury. You can book train tickets via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Highbury, several bus routes offer convenient access from surrounding areas. From North Finchley or High Barnet, the 263 bus route provides a direct service to Highbury Barn and Highbury & Islington Station. If you’re coming from London Bridge, the 43 bus route will take you directly to Highbury & Islington Station. The 19 bus route connects Battersea Bridge and Finsbury Park to Highbury. For those travelling from Holloway, the 21 bus route serves Highbury & Islington Station.
To avoid heavy traffic and peak hours, aim to travel to Highbury outside of weekday mornings (7 AM – 10 AM) and evenings (4 PM – 7 PM). Highbury & Islington station itself is generally quieter at certain times, which can be checked live. You can book bus tickets through platforms like Trainline, Busbud, or National Express, often finding better fares by booking in advance and travelling Monday to Thursday.
Fun Fact About Highbury
Highbury, North London, gets its name from a 1271 manor house built on a hill, meaning “high manor house.” This historic area was once monastic land, given to Thomas Cromwell by Henry VIII before Cromwell’s execution in 1540. Today, the former Arsenal Stadium, Highbury, is a luxury housing complex, with the pitch transformed into a private garden.
Learn more about Highbury’s past: Highbury.
Top Tips from our Experienced DVSA Approved Driving Instructor Experts
Q: How do I handle roundabouts without panicking?
"Stay calm by following the MSPSL routine (Mirrors, Signal, Position, Speed, Look) and always look right on approach. Practice with mini roundabouts first, then build up to larger ones using diagrams and videos for support."
Reginos Theodotou
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor for 20 years.
Q: What’s the correct way to check mirrors and signal?
"Check your mirrors before any change in direction, speed, or overtaking - act safely on what you see. Only signal if necessary, and make sure it’s correctly timed and clear."
Mali Summers
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: How do I stay calm before and during my driving lessons?
"Take deep breaths, remind yourself it's okay to make mistakes, and trust your instructor."
Shorif Kazi
DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: Is it easier to pass your driving test in an automatic car?
"Yes it much easier to pass in an automatic than a manual car. It’s especially effective for nervous drivers."
Mari Wright
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: What's the best way to learn clutch control?
"Practice clutch control in a quiet area by finding the bite point in first gear with light gas, checking all around (including blind spots), then releasing the handbrake. Read More
Mali Summers
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: Why do some people choose automatic over manual?
"Some people choose automatic because it's quicker to learn, less stressful, and easier to practise if they have access to an automatic car.
Read More
Mari Wright
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: What should I do if I make a mistake while driving?
"Stay calm, don’t panic - your instructor is there to help. Just learn from it and keep going."
Shorif Kazi
DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: How do I stop stalling at junction and roundabout?
"To avoid stalling at junctions and roundabouts, plan ahead, use the correct gear and speed, and anticipate when you’ll need to move.Read More
Mali Summers
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: How do I handle roundabouts without panicking?
"Knowledge, understanding when to go and when to wait."
Graham Morgan
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor for 15 years.
Q: How can I build my confidence if I’m a nervous driver?
"Practice regularly, start in quiet areas, and focus on small wins each lesson."
Shorif Kazi
DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: What do most people fail their driving test on?
"Interactions with others, junctions, meeting and roundabouts."
Graham Morgan
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor for 15 years.
Q: How many lessons does it really take to pass?
"It depends on the person, but most people need around 40–50 hours with a qualified instructor I have achieved 32 to 36 hours"
Shorif Kazi
DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: Can I drive a manual car if I pass in an automatic?
"If you pass in an automatic, you CANNOT unfortunately drive a manual car."
Mari Wright
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: What’s the number one mistake learners make?
"Trying to hard to be perfect. Mistakes are part of life."
Graham Morgan
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor for 15 years.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Highbury. Choose from our discounted packages below and begin your driving lessons today!
Refresher Course
Save
2.7%
Experience level
You’ve done plenty of lessons before and just need to sharpen up before your test. A final push to get you over the line.
The 10 hour driving course on average takes 2 - 5 days/weeks.
Intermediate Course
Save
4.5%
Experience level
You’re halfway there - you’ve got the basics, but need structured time to build confidence and polish key skills.
The 20 hour driving course on average takes 1 - 10 weeks to complete.
Intermediate Course
Save
5%
Experience level
You’ve started learning but still need time behind the wheel to feel truly confident. This one bridges the gap.
The 30 hour driving course on average takes 1 - 15 weeks to complete.
Beginner Course
Save
5.5%
Experience level
You’re starting from scratch, and this is the full journey - from your first lesson through to test day.
The 40 hour driving course on average takes 1 - 20 weeks to complete.
🏆 Pass Guarantee
Pass first time or they will refund you your £23! See test fee back! T&Cs apply
HAVEN'T PASSED YOUR THEORY TEST YET?
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Rated Driving has partnered with the UK's No.1 Theory Test app from Driving Test Success. With Theory Test 4 in 1 you can study from 85 interactive Hazard Perception video clips from The latest Highway Code 2025 Edition. Sit unlimited mock tests to pass first time!
- 🥳 97% of people pass using the app
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Learner Driver Reviews in Highbury 🙏
See why our learners in Highbury love Rated Driving ♥️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Top-Notch Driving Lessons in Highbury
Learning to drive in Highbury with Rated Driving was the best decision. I felt safe and supported throughout. Highly recommend them to anyone wanting to pass with confidence!
Noah I
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Stress-Free Driving Lessons in Highbury
Learning to drive in Highbury with Rated Driving was the best decision. I felt safe and supported throughout. Highly recommend them to anyone wanting to pass with confidence!
Mason F
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Confident Behind the Wheel in Highbury
My experience with Rated Driving in Highbury was incredible. The lessons were structured, and my instructor made learning fun. I passed on my first try!
Mason U
1600+ DVSA-Registered Driving Instructors
Excellent Learner Driver Reviews
Money-Back Guarantee Policy
WHAT CAN I GET
Highbury Driving School Services
Learn to drive with the Rated Driving app
Manage every lesson, payment, and message in one place. Rated Driving connects you with a local instructor - so you stay focused on learning, not chasing responses.
Book Now
Block discount booking
Why pay more? When you block book your driving lessons, you unlock exclusive local discounts - without sacrificing quality. Smart learners book ahead and save. We’ll handle the rest.
Check Discounts
Female driving instructors Highbury
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Highbury who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Highbury
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Highbury who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Highbury
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Highbury ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Highbury.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Highbury today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover Near Highbury, London
Are you looking for the top driving lessons in nearby locations? Rated Driving also offers driving lessons in nearby areas, including:
Driving lessons in Highbury FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions in Highbury for learners?
Highbury offers a varied environment for learning to drive, with a mix of residential streets and main roads. You’ll encounter 20 mph speed limits on side roads and generally 30 mph on larger roads. Highbury’s Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) mean some streets are restricted to through traffic, which can affect route planning but also provide quieter areas for practice.
Where are the nearest driving test centres to Highbury?
While there isn’t a practical driving test centre directly in Highbury, several are accessible nearby. Some of the closest options include Wood Green, Tottenham, Barnet, Mill Hill, Hendon, Borehamwood, and Chingford. Your Rated Driving instructor will help you become familiar with potential test routes in these areas.
How do I book driving lessons in Highbury with Rated Driving?
Booking driving lessons in Highbury with Rated Driving is straightforward. You can easily find and book lessons online by entering your postcode. We offer flexible scheduling, including evenings and weekends, to fit around your commitments.
What advice do you have for beginner drivers in Highbury?
For beginners in Highbury, starting on quieter residential streets, such as those around Arlington Square, can be beneficial for getting comfortable with basic controls and turns. Your Rated Driving instructor will tailor lessons to your needs, gradually introducing you to busier roads and more complex junctions as your confidence grows.
What are Rated Driving’s policies on refunds for driving lessons?
Rated Driving offers a “100% Money Back Guarantee” for the first hour of your initial driving lesson if you’re not satisfied, provided you contact us within 24 hours. For subsequent lessons, refunds for payments made within 30 days are processed based on the agreed number of hours between you and your instructor.
Can I change my driving instructor with Rated Driving in Highbury?
Changing instructors is possible if there’s a material issue, such as an instructor repeatedly not attending lessons or conducting them incompetently, as judged by Rated Driving. In such cases, we will do our best to connect you with a replacement instructor.
What payment options are available for driving lessons in Highbury with Rated Driving?
Rated Driving offers flexible payment options for your driving lessons in Highbury. There is no deposit or upfront cost required for standard driving lessons, allowing you to pay as you go. You can also save up to £110 by purchasing lessons in bulk. Rated Driving aims to make learning to drive accessible and affordable.
Are there any specific road features in Highbury that learners should be aware of?
Highbury has very few large roundabouts, but the Highbury & Islington roundabout can be busy. While there are no dual carriageways directly in Highbury, the A1 towards Holloway and the A12 towards Wanstead are nearby for practicing higher speeds. Be mindful of bus lane times, as entering them when not permitted can result in a fine.
Who provides the lessons?
Rated Driving acts as a booking agent. We arrange your driving lessons by matching you with a DVSA-registered, independent driving instructor. While we manage the booking and coordination, all driving lessons are delivered directly by the instructor, not by Rated Driving.
Can I use my own car for driving lessons?
No, all learners use their instructor's dual-controlled car for safety. To practice in your own car, you will need temporary learner driver insurance - we recommend [Link: GoShorty temporary learner insurance].
