If you are thinking about automatic driving lessons in Burgess Hill, it helps to know what actually happens, from your first lesson to the day you take your test. This guide walks through the journey so there are no surprises.
Quick answer: you start in a safe, quiet place, build up to real roads at your own pace, practise the skills the test covers and only book your test when you are ready. There is no clutch or gear changing to learn, so you can concentrate on road awareness and confidence.
Before your first lesson
You need a provisional driving licence to take lessons. GOV.UK explains who can apply and how: apply for your first provisional driving licence. Bring your licence to each lesson, and wear comfortable shoes you can feel the pedals through.
Your first lesson
Your instructor will usually begin with the basics, in a quiet area, so you can get comfortable before meeting busier roads. You can expect to cover:
- The cockpit drill: seat, mirrors, seat belt and controls
- How the automatic gearbox works: park, reverse, neutral and drive
- Moving off, steering and stopping smoothly
- Using the mirrors and looking around before you move
Instructor tip: everyone feels a little nervous at the start. Tell your instructor how you feel and what you want to achieve, so lessons can be planned around you.
Building your skills
Lessons are one-to-one, so the pace follows you. Typically you move from quiet roads to junctions, roundabouts, busier traffic and different speed limits. Later lessons usually add the manoeuvres and the independent driving you will meet on test, such as following road signs or a sat nav.
| Stage | What you work on |
|---|---|
| Early lessons | Controls, moving off, stopping, steering and awareness |
| Developing | Junctions, roundabouts, traffic, speed limits and hazards |
| Test preparation | Manoeuvres, independent driving, show me tell me questions and mock tests |
Theory test and driving test
You must pass your theory test before you can book your practical test. The theory test has two parts, multiple choice and hazard perception, and you must pass both. The driving test itself lasts around 35 minutes and is the same in a manual and an automatic car. GOV.UK says there is no minimum number of lessons you must have before you book, and that you should only take your test when you can do everything without instruction. Your instructor will tell you honestly when they think you are ready. See show me, tell me questions to prepare for part of the test.
A note on your licence
If you pass your test in an automatic car, your licence will let you drive automatic cars only. If you want to drive a manual later you would need to take a test in a manual car. Read the GOV.UK licence categories to check what that means for you.
Frequently asked questions
How many lessons will I need?
It depends on the person. There is no set minimum, and your instructor can guide you as you progress.
Are automatic lessons easier?
Many learners find them less to juggle because there is no clutch or gear changing. You still need to learn the same road skills and meet the same test standard.
Can nervous learners take automatic lessons?
Yes. Many nervous learners find the calmer pace helpful. See our guide for nervous drivers.
Learn with AK Automatic Driving School
AK Automatic Driving School is run by a DVSA Approved Driving Instructor offering one-to-one automatic driving lessons in Brighton and Hove, Burgess Hill and Lancing, with Portslade and Shoreham-by-Sea also covered. Read more about automatic driving lessons in Burgess Hill, check the pricing page or send an enquiry to talk through what you need. You can also explore our automatic driving lessons on our main website.