Our platform makes it easy to compare driving instructors in Derby and the surrounding areas. Browse profiles, check availability, read genuine reviews from past students, and send enquiries directly to instructors.
All instructors listed are fully qualified ADIs (Approved Driving Instructors) registered with the DVSA. Start your search today and take the first step towards getting on the road.
Best Driving Instructors in Derby
Compare verified, top-rated instructors with genuine reviews from real students
Andy Price
Andy Price is a friendly, fully qualified driving instructor with over 16 years of experience in the Derby area. He runs Derby Driver Training and is…
Damian Jones
Damian Jones is a DSA-approved driving instructor working in Derby, Ashbourne and the wider Derbyshire area. He's a friendly local instructor who kee…
Munir
Munir teaches at Mughal Driving School and keeps his lessons relaxed and supportive. He focuses on safe and responsible driving, and he adapts how he…
Adam Blackwell
Adam Blackwell is a calm, patient Approved Driving Instructor with over 15 years of experience. He runs automatic lessons in Derbyshire and brings st…
Andy Wilkinson
Andy Wilkinson has been helping learners get on the road since 2002. He is a Grade A DVSA-approved instructor, holds the RoSPA gold driving qualifica…
Tony
Tony teaches at M&M Academy and is known for mixing music and martial arts in a really fun, down to earth way. He is a 3rd Dan Blackbelt in Taekwondo…
Martyn
Martyn is a fully qualified driving instructor based in Belper, Derbyshire, with many years of experience. He offers a range of courses to suit all l…
Learning to Drive in Derby
Learning to drive in Derby mixes tight town streets with faster arterial routes. You will practise in residential areas around Alvaston and on busier stretches near Pride Park and the A52. Short journeys across the city mean varied lesson content and quick access to the test centre. Lessons suit people who want a mix of town and trunk-road experience.
Nearest Test Centre: Derby (Alvaston)
Derby (Alvaston) is the nearest DVSA test centre, about 2.3 miles from central Derby. Expect a steady flow of tests, roughly 1,150 a year, and typical routes that include ring-road junctions and the A52. The centre's pass rate is 45.5% according to local data, Data source: DVSA 2024-2025. Book early and allow time to get used to the approach roads on test day.
Data source: DVSA (2024-2025)
Pass Rate Analysis
Derby (Alvaston) has a pass rate of 45.5%, slightly below the national average of 47.3%, Data source: DVSA 2024-2025. Male candidates pass at 49.3% while female candidates pass at 41.8% at this centre, Data source: DVSA 2024-2025. Nearby centres show variation, for example Burton on Trent at 38.5% and Nottingham (Chilwell) at 41.9%, Data source: DVSA 2024-2025. These differences often reflect local routes and test volumes rather than individual ability.
Local Driving Tips
Start lessons on quiet residential streets in Alvaston to build control and observation skills. Move on to the A52 and A6 for higher-speed lane discipline and junction practice. Spend time on the Derby ring road, especially the A5111, to get used to lane changes and roundabout approaches near Pride Park. Practise independent driving routes that include Raynesway junction and the approach to the city centre. Watch for short, sudden congestion around shopping areas and hospital junctions during peak times.
Choosing an Instructor in Derby
There are seven instructors listed in Derby, so availability can be limited at peak times. Expect average private lesson rates around £38 per hour and look for ADI-qualified instructors who offer consistent lesson times. Ask about pass rates for recent pupils and whether they use the routes around Alvaston and Pride Park. Consider an instructor who offers block bookings or weekend slots if you need intensive practice.
Lesson Costs in Derby
Average lesson price in Derby is about £38 per hour. Costs vary with instructor experience, travelling time and whether you book single lessons or blocks. Expect to pay more for late notice lessons or if you need an instructor to travel outside their usual area.
Getting Started
First, apply for your provisional driving licence and then book your theory test. Start lessons with an ADI in Derby and cover both town roads and arterial routes such as the A52. When you and your instructor are ready, book a practical test at Derby (Alvaston), which is around 2.3 miles from central Derby.
Frequently Asked Questions
Last reviewed: February 2026