At Britannia Driving School, every pass is more than just a certificate—it’s a moment of triumph, confidence, and pure joy. We’re thrilled to celebrate our incredible pupils who’ve turned their driving dreams into reality! From first-lesson nerves to test-day cheers, these snapshots capture the pride, perseverance, and personality of our newest road-ready stars. Scroll through and meet the faces behind the passes—you might just be inspired to start your own journey with us!

They Passed with Flying Colours – And We’ve Got the Pics to Prove It!

Look at that smile – another Britannia success story! Patrica passed with us after taking lessons with Leslie.

Patricia also left a wonder testimonal on our website :

“I am so glad to have chosen Britannia Driving School and was the best thing that ever happened to me. I am a driver for 33 years in another country and decided to get my drive license in UK. At first I had another driving school but the instructor made me so nervous that I didn’t want even to do the test. My husband then told me to contact Britannia and get a new instructor. The school send me Mr. Leslie to teach me and he was brilliant! Very inspiring man that helped me to build my confidence again and do the test. I pass at the first time! Thanks Mr. Leslie for your support and to believe in me and show me that I could do it! Thanks Brittania for the go work. I will certainly refer you to my friends and family.”

Passed with flying colours! Your journey starts here! Dianne passed after taking lessons with George.

Dianne also left George a wonderful testimonal:

“I couldn’t have asked for a better driving instructor than George! From day one, he was kind, incredibly patient, and always calm — even when I made the same mistakes more than once. George never made me feel embarrassed or discouraged; instead, he guided me with confidence and understanding every step of the way.

His teaching style is clear, encouraging, and tailored to your pace. His mix of top-tier driving knowledge and good humour made lessons something to actually looked forward to!

Thanks to George, I passed my test and I can’t recommend him highly enough!”

Confidence, commitment, and a pass certificate to prove it! Lara passed after taking lessons with Jon.

Lara left Jon amazing feedback on our Trustpilot:

“I passed first try with Jon as my driving instructor, and cannot thank him enough. He is a stellar instructor, very punctual, clear and organised; he knew all the routes that I could come across for the test and taught me everything I needed to know and more, hence building my confidence to allow me to pass first try. Thanks to Jon’s patience I now feel confident enough driving alone despite starting with zero experience, and so I truly recommend Jon for productive and enjoyable lessons!
Thank you so much to Jon!”

License unlocked—next stop: freedom! Rachel passed after taking lessons with Gary.

Rachel left a lovely tesimonal for Gary:

“I had a great learning experience with my instructor Gary – he was always patient and kind and made every lesson fun. I passed today first time with 0 minors, so I think that tells you everything you need to know about how good an instructor Gary is!”

Ready to Be Our Next Success Story?

Every pass photo you’ve seen here is more than just a smile—it’s a story of growth, grit, and guidance. At Britannia Driving School, we’re proud to support our pupils every step of the way, from first lesson jitters to test-day triumphs. If you’re dreaming of your own pass moment (and maybe a spot on our wall of fame!), we’re ready when you are. Join the Britannia family and let’s make your driving journey unforgettable.

Looking for driving lessons in London or Surrey and tired of the same old road? You’ve probably noticed one name zooming ahead of the pack: Britannia Driving School. From TikTok testimonials to glowing five-star reviews, Britannia isn’t just coasting-it’s accelerating into the fast lane of driving education. So, what’s causing all the buzz? Buckle up, we’re taking a scenic route through their success story.

1. 30 Years on the Road—and Still in Top Gear

Let’s face it: in a world full of “pop-up” driving schools that disappear faster than your Uber Eats order, Britannia is a welcome classic. With over three decades of experience, they’ve taught entire generations how to handle roundabouts without panic, reverse park without tears, and navigate test routes like seasoned pros.

These instructors aren’t guessing what examiners want-they know. It’s like being taught by a driving Jedi who’s seen it all and lived to teach about it.

2. Lessons Built for Real Life (Not Just the Test)

Need flexible hours? Crash course before your theory test next week. Lessons in automatic because manual feels like trying to drive a dinosaur. Britannia has it covered.

They tailor lessons to suit you-whether you’re a terrified first-timer or someone dusting off an expired license from 2006. Plus, their pricing is fair and transparent, with DVSA-licensed instructors who are more “friendly mentor” than “grumpy driving school sergeant.”

And yes, they work evenings and weekends, because your job/university/kids/pet parrot won’t teach you how to drive.

3. Tech That Keeps You in the Driver’s Seat

Britannia isn’t stuck in the stone age of spiral-bound logbooks and phone-tag scheduling. Their website is as smooth as a clean gear change-allowing you to book lessons, see prices, and track your progress online.

They even offer online theory test support that doesn’t involve ancient CD-ROMs or guesswork. You’ll feel prepped and confident-without memorising the entire Highway Code in one sleepless weekend.

4. Praise That’s Fuelling the Fire

Hop onto Reddit, TikTok, or Google Reviews, and you’ll find learner drivers practically writing love letters to Britannia’s instructors. The consensus? They’re kind, patient, encouraging, and somehow manage to explain clutch control in a way that makes sense.

Review sites are full of five-star ratings, glowing thanks, and emotional pass-day selfies. If applause could be heard over an engine, Britannia would need earplugs.

5. Driving With a Bigger Purpose

Britannia isn’t just trying to get you to squeak by the test-they’re committed to building safe, skilled, road-savvy drivers for the long haul. That means they’ll teach you how to handle the unpredictable world of UK roads-rain, cyclists, potholes, and all.

With the DVSA constantly raising the bar on standards, that long-term mindset could make the difference between passing the test and panicking at a roundabout.

 Final Verdict? Britannia Isn’t Just Riding the Wave-They’re Leading the Convoy

Whether you’re itching to get your first license or picking up driving again after a break, Britannia Driving School offers the perfect mix of experience, modern convenience, and learner-first thinking. With a smart tech platform, flexible lessons, and instructors who care, it’s no wonder they’re getting noticed.

In short? Britannia isn’t just teaching driving-they’re redefining it. And judging by the buzz, they’re doing a pretty fine job of it.

At Britannia Driving School, we’ve been around the block (in both first and second gear). So we’ve seen it all—students ghosting instructors like bad Tinder dates, switching tutors like socks, or vanishing into thin air after a “quick holiday.”

But why does this keep happening? We sniffed around (more on that later) and found the top 5 reasons pupils jump ship—and more importantly, how we make sure they don’t leave us.

1. The Shouting Show

“Mirror! Mirror! MIRRORS!”

Apparently, some instructors believe they’re directing a military drill. But when your teaching style resembles a nagging parent, it’s no wonder learners hit the eject button.

Britannia’s fix: We guide, not bark. Our instructors use calm, structured feedback. Because no one learns better while sweating bullets.

2. The Vanishing Instructor

Late again? Cancelled… again? If your driving instructor is more unreliable than British summer, learners notice.

Britannia’s fix: We respect your time. Punctuality is our jam, and if life throws a curveball, we handle reschedules like pros—with fairness and flexibility.

3. Lessons Going Nowhere (Literally)

One week it’s roundabouts, the next it’s… still roundabouts? Pupils want progress, not a weekly scenic tour with no clear goal.

Britannia’s fix: We follow a structured DVSA syllabus, use clear records, and involve learners in setting goals. Think: driving with a sat nav, not a blindfold.

4. The Phone Zombie Instructor

Believe it or not, some instructors still think it’s OK to text during a lesson. We wish we were joking.

Britannia’s fix: Phones down, eyes up. Our instructors are there for you, not WhatsApp. If we’re using tech, it’s for your progress—never personal chats or takeaway orders.

5. The Nose Knows

We’ve heard it all—BO, smoke, leftover kebabs fermenting in the footwell. If your instructor smells like a haunted gym bag, learning to drive becomes… unpleasant.

Britannia’s fix: Hygiene matters. Our cars are clean, our instructor’s fresher than mint gum, and illegal smoking in cars. Not on our watch.

Final Gear

At Britannia Driving School, we get it: you’re trusting someone with your time, money, and safety. We don’t take that lightly. That’s why we’ve built a team of pros who show up on time, keep their phones in their pockets, and don’t shout, stink, or stall your progress.

Want to learn with instructors’ people don’t run away from?

Hop in. We’re ready when you are.

How Many Lessons Does It Take to Pass a Driving Test?

(Spoiler: Fewer Than You Think – If You Pick the Right School!)

Let’s face it-when you first sit in the driver’s seat and look at all those pedals, buttons, and mirrors, it’s easy to wonder if you need a PhD to figure it all out . But don’t worry! At Britannia Driving School, we’ve helped thousands of complete beginners go from “What’s a clutch?” to “I passed!” -often faster than they expected.

So, How Many Lessons Do You Actually Need?

According to the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency), most learners need around 45 hours of professional lessons, along with 22 hours of private practice to be test-ready. But hold on a second-that doesn’t mean you must take exactly 45. Some people pass with fewer, and some need a few more. It really depends on your confidence, coordination, and how often you practise.

The good news? With the right instruction (hint hint-that’s us ), you can learn efficiently and avoid wasting time or money .

Weekly Lessons: The Steady & Sensible Route

If you’re juggling school, work, or binge-watching a new series , weekly lessons are probably your best bet. You can take 2-4 lessons per week, giving you time to absorb what you’ve learned and reflect (ideally not while daydreaming at a red light ).

We’ll match you with a patient, friendly instructor who will get to know your strengths and help you tackle your trickier bits-like reversing around a corner without taking out someone’s recycling bins ♻️.

Weekly lessons are great because they’re consistent, flexible, and easy to schedule around your life. Plus, spreading lessons out means you build solid experience over time-just like a slow-cooked stew , you’ll be richer for it in the end!

⚡ Intensive Lessons: For the Fast and the Focused

Need to learn fast? Maybe you’ve got a new job starting , or your mum refuses to be your chauffeur any longer . In that case, our intensive driving courses are the answer.

These fast-track lessons pack the learning into just a few days or weeks-typically 5 to 10 days, depending on your level. You’ll be in the car several hours a day, and by the end, you’ll be road-ready and raring to go .

We structure intensive lessons to keep things engaging (no one wants driving déjà vu after three hours on the same roundabout ), and we offer packages with or without the driving test booked at the end.

Competitive Prices Without Cutting Corners

We know learning to drive can be expensive . That’s why we’ve worked hard to keep our prices affordable, with discounted block bookings, special offers for students, and no surprise fees.

Whether you go weekly or intensive, you’ll always get high-quality instruction at rates that won’t make your wallet swerve off the road . And since our instructors are focused on helping you pass as efficiently as possible, you’ll never be kept in lessons longer than necessary.

Let’s Get You on the Road!

So whether you’re a slow-and-steady type or want to get your licence faster than your favourite takeaway arrives , Britannia Driving School is here to help. With expert instructors, flexible lesson types, and prices that make sense-we’ve got you covered from your first stall to your first solo drive .

Book today, and let’s get those L-plates off sooner than you think! ️✅

Steer Clear! The Driving Instructors You Might Want to Avoid

By the Britannia Motoring News Desk

At Britannia Driving School, we believe your journey to becoming a confident driver should be smooth, safe—and even a little enjoyable! But every road has its bumps, and sometimes, those bumps come in the form of… questionable driving instructors. While most are brilliant mentors, a few might stall your progress. Here are three types you’d do well to avoid—and how to get back in the fast lane if you encounter them!

️ 1. The Gossip

“Did I tell you about my ex-wife’s new boyfriend?”
No? And you didn’t sign up for it either.

Meet the instructor who’s more interested in dishing the latest on his love life, golf scores, or last holiday in Ibiza than in your mirror-signal-manoeuvre routine. Sure, a little chit-chat can ease the nerves, but if you’re sweating through a parallel park while he’s rambling on about lasagna recipes, it’s time to speak up.

Tip: Politely say you find the conversation distracting and want to focus more on the driving. If he doesn’t shift gears, you might need to find an instructor who talks less and teaches more.

2. The Critic

You make a driving error, and it’s like you’ve committed a crime against humanity.

Every instructor should give feedback—it’s part of the job! But feedback should build you up, not break your confidence like a dodgy clutch. Some students thrive under tough love, but if every lesson feels like a verbal driving exam, it’s okay to ask for a gentler approach.

Tip: Tell them you’d benefit from more encouragement. Still getting barked at? Then it’s your signal to indicate right—towards a different instructor.

⏱️ 3. The Short-Changer

Lesson starts at 2pm… Instructor rolls up at 2:13pm with a coffee in hand. Hmm.

We all know traffic happens (especially in London!), but if your one-hour lesson is regularly trimmed down to 45 minutes, you’re getting short-changed. That time is yours—you’ve paid for it!

Tip: Make sure missed minutes are made up in future sessions. If they keep “forgetting,” it might be time to drive off into the sunset—with someone else.

Final Thought from Britannia
Learning to drive is a big milestone, and the right instructor can make all the difference. If your current one is more of a roadblock than a guide, don’t be afraid to switch lanes. At Britannia Driving School, our instructors are friendly, professional, and 100% committed to helping you pass with confidence—and maybe even a smile!

Ready to find your perfect match? Give us a call on 0800 252 692. We’ll keep your learning journey on track and traffic-free! ️✨

As many of you are aware the ever growing backlog regarding booking a practical driving test grows by the day, the delay which first came about after the Covid 19 lock down lifted. Lets take a look into how this was created.

Covid 19 lockdowns

Due to only essential workers being able to take lessons and driving tests for some time combined with many learners pre booked tests being cancelled this created the initial backlog.

Lack of examiners

Once the lock downs where eventually lifted a number of examiners decided to either retire or change profession.

Strikes

Strikes which also took place over a number of dates added to test being cancelled or rescheduled.

Unauthorized reselling and bots

Then saw a rise in the use of automated bots that exploit the driving test booking service. This led to result in the reselling of appointments, often at inflated prices.

Increase in learners

Everyday people turn 17 and wish to begin their learning journey, this combined with others wishing to learn also creates a high demand for tests.

So, whats being done to reduce the waiting time?

• The DVSA have cracked down on unauthorized sellers and bots being able to block book the tests and resell them.Reducing the amount of tests that can be booked in one go.
• Increased the time frame to cancel or change a test from 3 working days to 10 working days. The theory behind this is :

Lots of people who are not ready to take their driving test leave it until the last moment to change or cancel it.

That appointment then becomes available to other learner drivers. But as it’s so close to the test date, it can be hard for people who are ready to pass to make all the necessary arrangements to use the appointment.

This can lead to appointments going unused.

By asking learner drivers to give more notice, it should give other people more chance to use the appointment. This will help to reduce driving test waiting times. DVSA.

• More examiners employed and extra tests added to weekends and bank holidays.

Now a new announcement has been made

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander told MPs that current driving test waits are ‘totally unacceptable’ as she pledged tens of thousands more exams this year

Heidi Alexander told MPs that current waits are “totally unacceptable” as she pledged tens of thousands more exams this year. She revealed she has ordered the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) to offer overtime payments to examiners, as well as getting those qualified to return voluntarily. The MIRROR

Driving at Night: Tips for Safety and Success

Driving at night can present unique challenges that require special attention, focus, and preparation. While some drivers feel more comfortable behind the wheel after dark.

1. The Challenges of Night Driving

The main obstacle when driving at night is reduced visibility. Darkness limits your ability to see other vehicles, road signs, pedestrians, and obstacles on the road. Even with headlights on, your field of vision is narrower, which can make it harder to react quickly to unexpected situations.

Additionally, at night, drivers are often more tired, which can impair concentration and decision-making. Fatigue and drowsiness are major contributors to accidents after dark, as the body naturally seeks rest during nighttime hours. This is especially problematic on long road trips or after a busy day.

2. Night Driving Safety Tips

To ensure that your nighttime driving experience is as safe as possible, follow these key safety tips:

a. Ensure Proper Vehicle Maintenance

Before heading out after dark, make sure your vehicle is in good working condition. Check the following:

• Headlights and taillights: Ensure that both headlights are working and adjusted correctly. Misaligned headlights can create dangerous glare for other drivers or fail to properly illuminate the road ahead.
• Windshield wipers and fluid: Night driving can be especially tough if your windshield is streaked or dirty. Check that your wipers are in good condition and fill up the windshield washer reservoir.
• Tires: Make sure that your tires have enough tread to handle various road conditions, particularly if you’re driving in rainy or wet conditions.

b. Use Headlights Correctly

Headlights should be turned on whenever visibility is limited, even in dusk or dawn conditions. Use your high beams in areas where there is no oncoming traffic, but be sure to switch to low beams when you approach another vehicle to avoid blinding the other driver.

It’s also important to dim your dashboard lights to reduce glare. Bright dashboard lights can make it harder for your eyes to adjust to the darkness outside.

c. Adjust Your Speed

Since visibility is reduced at night, driving at lower speeds allows you to react faster to unexpected situations. In some cases, it’s recommended to reduce your speed even further than the posted limit, particularly on poorly lit roads. Remember, it’s not just about getting to your destination — it’s about getting there safely.

d. Take Frequent Breaks to Combat Fatigue

Fatigue is a significant risk when driving at night, especially for long-distance travel. If you start feeling drowsy, pull over at a safe location, stretch, and take a break. Drinking water or a caffeinated beverage can help, but nothing replaces a quick nap if you’re truly exhausted.

e. Increase Following Distance

In daylight, a 2-3 second following distance might be sufficient, but at night, it’s a good idea to increase this to 4 or 5 seconds. This extra distance gives you more time to react if the vehicle in front of you suddenly stops or swerves.

f. Stay Alert for Impaired Drivers

Nighttime is when impaired driving rates peak, particularly due to alcohol consumption. Always be alert for signs of erratic driving, such as swerving, sudden stops, or inconsistent speeds. If you suspect another driver is impaired, keep your distance and consider calling local authorities to report the dangerous driver.

3. Special Considerations for Night Driving

a. Glare and Night Vision

Glare from headlights can be blinding, but you can reduce its impact by focusing on the lower right edge of the road. This helps your eyes adjust to the darkness without becoming distracted by oncoming lights.

Moreover, as we age, our night vision deteriorates. If you’re over 50, or if you experience difficulty seeing clearly in low light, consider speaking with an eye doctor about corrective options, such as anti-glare lenses or other visual aids.

b. Wildlife Hazards

Certain areas are more likely to have wildlife crossing the road at night, especially in rural or forested areas. Watch for animal crossing signs and keep an eye out for reflections from animal eyes in your headlights. Slowing down can provide you more time to react if an animal does appear in your path.

4. The Psychology of Night Driving

There’s an interesting psychological aspect to driving at night as well. While some drivers feel more relaxed and less stressed after dark, others may experience anxiety, especially in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas. If you find yourself becoming anxious or uncomfortable, take deep breaths, turn on calming music, and remind yourself that the road conditions require extra vigilance.

It’s also worth noting that while nighttime can seem less busy, traffic patterns can change, with more commercial trucks on the road during off-hours and more recreational vehicles during holiday periods. This can lead to unpredictable driving conditions.

5. Summary: Night Driving is Not Without Risk, But Precautions Help

Driving at night may pose more risks, but these can be mitigated by being proactive, staying alert, and following safety tips. Proper vehicle maintenance, appropriate use of headlights, slower speeds, and taking breaks to avoid fatigue are essential strategies. Understanding how your vision and reaction times can be affected by darkness, glare, and tiredness helps ensure that you’re ready for the road ahead.

By keeping these strategies in mind, you’ll be better prepared to navigate the road safely and confidently, even when the sun goes down.