Driving Lessons Shanklin
Learn to Drive and pass with Confidence
Automatic and Manual Driving Lessons
Friendly & Patient Driving Instructors
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Rated 5/5 On Google by local learners
DVSA-Approved Driving Instructor
Are you looking for professional, patient, and highly effective driving lessons in Shanklin? Welcome to Humphreys Driving School, your local, trusted choice for learning to drive on the Isle of Wight.
We understand that learning to drive is a major milestone. It’s a ticket to freedom and independence, but it can also feel daunting. Our mission is simple: to help you become a safe, confident, and skilled driver for life, not just to pass your test.
With a friendly, supportive approach and lessons tailored specifically to your individual learning style, we are the perfect partner for your driving journey. Whether you’re a complete beginner feeling nervous about getting behind the wheel or a driver needing a few refresher lessons, we’re here to help you succeed.
Why Choose Humphreys Driving School for Your Shanklin Lessons?
Choosing the right driving instructor is the most important decision you’ll make. Here’s why Humphreys Driving School is the number-one choice for learners in Shanklin.
🚗 Manual & Automatic Dual-Controlled Cars
We give you the power to choose how you want to learn. We offer lessons in both manual and automatic transmission cars. Whether you want the full control of a manual licence or prefer the simpler, less stressful experience of an automatic, we have the car for you. Both our vehicles are modern, well-maintained, and fitted with He-Man dual controls for your complete safety and peace of mind.
Learn from the Isle of Wight’s Top Instructor
🚗 Our Patient & Reassuring Approach (Perfect for Nervous Learners)
This is where we truly stand apart. We believe learning to drive should be a positive and empowering experience, not a stressful one.
Our school is led by founder Les Humphrey, who is well-known across the Island for his exceptionally calm and reassuring nature. Les has built his reputation on being fantastic with nervous and anxious learners, possessing a genuine patience that helps even the most worried student feel comfortable and capable behind the wheel.
This patient, supportive, and encouraging teaching style is the foundation of our entire school. All our instructors are fully qualified, DVSA-Approved (ADIs) and share this same commitment. We specialise in building your confidence step-by-step. You can ask as many questions as you need, and we’ll never rush you.
When you take your driving lessons in Shanklin, you’re learning with one of the UK’s most qualified instructors.
Your instructor, Les Humphrey, is a fully-qualified Advanced Driving Test Examiner and a former HGV instructor-trainer. This expert-level insight is why he was trusted to teach TV’s Martin Clunes to drive a lorry. (1989)
Read the full story on my Blog
I’m proud to be recognised among the top 6% of DVSA-approved driving instructors in the UK. This means I’ve been independently assessed at the very highest level, giving you the reassurance that your lessons are delivered to national standards of excellence.
You get the benefit of this patient, professional, and top-tier instruction on your local roads.
My aim isn’t just to help you pass your test, but to make sure you feel confident and safe driving independently afterwards.
Find out more about our qualifications on the “About Us” page
🚗 Unmatched Local Knowledge
We’re not just based near Shanklin; we know Shanklin. Our instructors have years of experience navigating every part of the town.
- Town Centre Confidence: We’ll help you master the busy High Street, Regent Street, and the junctions around the main town roundabout.
- Coastal & Tourist Areas: You’ll learn to handle the unique challenges of the Esplanade and the roads around Shanklin Chine, including dealing with seasonal tourist traffic and parked vehicles.
- Residential Practice: We use the quieter residential estates, like those around Whitecross or Alverstone Road, to build your core skills and manoeuvre practice in a low-stress environment.
- Rural Roads: We’ll ensure you’re comfortable on the faster, winding roads connecting Shanklin to Ventnor, Sandown, and the rest of the Island.
🚗 Lessons Tailored 100% to You
There is no “one-size-fits-all” approach at Humphreys Driving School. Your lesson plan is designed around you. We quickly assess your learning style—whether you learn best by watching, listening, or doing—and adapt our teaching method to match. We progress at your pace, focusing on the areas you need to improve while reinforcing your strengths.
🚗 Proven Track Record & High Pass Rates
Our goal is your success. We have a fantastic track record of helping Shanklin students pass their driving test, often on the first attempt. We don’t just teach you to scrape a pass; we teach you the defensive driving skills and hazard perception that will keep you safe on the road long after you’ve torn up your ‘L’ plates.
🚗 Familiarity with the Newport Test Centre
The practical driving test for Isle of Wight learners is conducted from the Newport Test Centre. A core part of your training with us will involve regular, structured lessons in Newport. We know the test routes inside-out, including the challenging Coppins Bridge roundabout system and the various complex junctions you’re likely to face. You’ll go into your test feeling prepared, familiar, and confident.
Our Driving Courses in Shanklin
We offer a range of services to meet your needs, all with flexible pick-up and drop-off from your home, work, or college in the Shanklin area.
- Beginner Driving Lessons: Our complete beginner’s course takes you from the absolute basics—like the cockpit drill and moving off—all the way to complex roundabouts, dual carriageways, and all the manoeuvres required for your test.
- Refresher Lessons: Has it been a while since you last drove? Perhaps you’ve passed your test but still feel nervous about parking or motorways? Our refresher lessons are perfect for blowing away the cobwebs and rebuilding your confidence.
- Pass Plus Courses: An excellent, 6-module course designed by the DVSA for new drivers. It covers areas not included in the standard test, such as motorway driving, all-weather driving, and night driving. Completing it can often lead to a reduction in your car insurance premium.
- Motorway Lessons: As the Isle of Wight has no motorways, this is a vital post-test skill. We offer dedicated lessons to get you confident with slip roads, lane discipline, and driving safely at high speeds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many driving lessons will I need to pass?
This is the most common question, and the answer is different for everyone. The DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) states that the national average is around 45 hours of professional tuition combined with about 20 hours of private practice. However, this is just an average. At Humphreys Driving School, we’ll focus on your progress, not the clock. Some learners pick it up faster, while others benefit from a more measured pace. We’ll give you an honest assessment of your progress every step of the way.
How much do driving lessons in Shanklin cost?
We offer competitive, fair pricing for our premium instruction. You can pay per lesson or take advantage of our block booking discounts, which are a popular way to save money on your training. Please visit our ‘Prices’ page or call us for the most up-to-date information and special offers.
Do I need to have passed my theory test to start lessons?
No, you don’t need to have passed your theory test to start your practical driving lessons. You can learn both in parallel. However, you must pass the theory test before you can book your practical driving test. We can provide guidance and resources to help you study for your theory test.
What do I need for my very first driving lesson?
On your first lesson, all you need to bring is your valid UK provisional driving licence. You’ll also need to be able to read a standard car number plate from 20 metres (with glasses or contact lenses, if you use them). We’ll do a quick eyesight check before we start. Most importantly, bring a positive attitude—we’ll handle the rest!
Ready to Start Your Driving Journey in Shanklin?
Don’t wait any longer to gain your independence. Join the hundreds of happy pupils from Shanklin and across the Island who have passed their test with Humphreys Driving School.
We’re ready to help you succeed.
To book your first driving lesson or to ask any questions, call or text us today on 📞 07840 313390 or fill out our online contact form!