Feeling nervous about driving is very common, and it is nothing to be embarrassed about. With the right lessons you can build confidence at your own pace.
Quick answer: choose a patient instructor, start somewhere quiet, take small steps, and tell your instructor how you feel. Automatic lessons mean no clutch or gears, so you have less to think about at once.
Why learners feel nervous
- Worry about making mistakes
- Busy roads and other drivers
- Junctions, roundabouts and parking
- Returning to driving after a break
How lessons help
- Talk first. Say what worries you so lessons can be planned around it.
- Start quietly. Learn the controls before meeting traffic.
- Go step by step. Add one new skill at a time.
- Repeat what feels hard. Familiarity builds confidence.
- Notice progress. Look back at what you can do now.
Instructor tip: you can ask to stop and talk at any point. A good instructor will welcome that.
Why automatic can help
With no clutch or gear changes, you can give more attention to what is happening around you. The test standard is the same as for manual, and a pass gives you an automatic-only licence. See learn to drive with confidence and GOV.UK licence categories.
Frequently asked questions
What if I have never driven before?
That is fine. Lessons begin with the basics.
What if I have been away from driving?
Look at refresher driving lessons.
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.