Friendly, experienced manual and automatic driving instructors helping learners build safe, confident and independent driving skills across South London.
Learning to drive is about more than passing a test. It is about developing the confidence, awareness and practical skills to drive safely and independently for years to come.
At Herne Hill Driving School, our experienced instructors tailor every lesson around you. Whether you are a complete beginner, returning to driving, feeling nervous behind the wheel or preparing for your practical test, we help you progress at a pace that feels right.
Lessons adapted to your experience, confidence and individual goals.
Friendly, professional tuition focused on safe and confident driving.
Practical experience helping learners navigate a wide range of local roads.
A family-run driving school built on experience, trust and a genuine passion for helping every learner become a confident, safe driver for life.
I established Herne Hill Driving School in 2006 and have been proud to watch thousands of learners achieve their driving goals ever since. I still remember the excitement of passing my own driving test at just 17 years old—the freedom and independence it brought has stayed with me throughout my life.
Today, seeing that same happiness and confidence on my students' faces after they pass their driving test is one of the most rewarding parts of my career.
With 46 years of driving experience and over 23 years as a professional driving instructor, including previous roles at two respected driving schools, I understand that every learner is different. That's why we carefully select instructors who are patient, experienced and committed to creating a relaxed, enjoyable learning environment where confidence naturally grows.
Years Driving Experience
Years Teaching Experience
I first learned to drive with my father, who founded Herne Hill Driving School in 2006. Before that, I experienced other driving schools that unfortunately left me feeling nervous instead of confident.
Although it meant travelling further, learning with my dad completely changed my experience. I felt supported, comfortable and genuinely enjoyed every lesson. It showed me how important it is to have an instructor who believes in you and teaches with patience.
Today, we proudly continue those same values by carefully matching every learner with an instructor who is friendly, supportive and genuinely invested in their success. Whether you're taking your very first lesson or returning to driving after a break, our goal is to help you become a safe, confident driver for life.
From your first time behind the wheel to test preparation and refresher driving, our lessons are adapted to your goals and confidence level.
Flexibility tailored to your schedule: Select from 1.5-hour, or 2-hour driving lessons at Herne Hill Driving School.
Whether you’re a beginner or in need of a refresher, our driving lessons cater to all skill levels at Herne Hill Driving School.
Our specialized lessons are designed to build confidence behind the wheel at Herne Hill Driving School.
Tell us your postcode, preferred transmission and availability.
At Herne Hill Driving School (HHDS), we’re dedicated to providing top-quality driver education. Our experienced 20+ instructors and tailored lessons ensure that you gain the skills and confidence needed to drive safely and responsibly. Choose HHDS for a quality driving education experience.
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Mateusz Tudela24 October 2026
I had a very positive experience with this school my instructor was Salim and he’s the best teacher you can get he’s very patient and experienced, he will give really valuable feedback and help work on any errors you may make he helped me a lot when switching from manual to automatic and I got a pass today with only one minor therefore I’ll highly recommend that you should take on lessons with Salim. 10/10Posted on Google![]()
James Thongplengsri23 October 2026
I had lessons with Gary and I just passed my driving test first try with no faults. The experience has been incredible, Gary’s tough but when he says you’re good to go, then you know you’re good to go! Before coming to Gary i had very little experience driving and Gary made sure i to maximise my time on the road. The sessions were enjoyable and we both had lots of laughs. Overall i highly recommend GaryPosted on Google![]()
cesay123422 October 2026
I’ve had a fantastic experience learning to drive with Neil. He’s a brilliant instructor who makes you feel comfortable, builds your confidence, and explains things clearly. I’ve gained , learned and progressed very well in my driving ,I couldn’t recommend him highly enough to anyone looking to learn to drive. Thank you, Neil, for all your help and support!Posted on Google![]()
George Glover22 October 2026
Thank you to Miz for teaching me how to drive! I definitely got my money’s worth from my lessons, I very quickly felt test-ready having barely driven before. Miz really helped build up my confidence, develop my observations and drive a lot more fluidly. He taught roundabouts and manoeuvres particularly well. And it helps a lot that he’s a really nice, friendly guy who was kind and supportive if I ever did make a mistake. I’d highly recommend him (and Herne Hill Driving School) to others.Posted on Google![]()
Imarny Tassinari21 October 2026
I passed my driving test today with 1 minor at Mitcham test centre. I had a great experience with Herne Hill Driving School. My instructor was Syed and he was great. He always explained my mistakes and had a warm energy which made it comfortable to drive with him. I would definitely recommend him to anyone wanting to learn manual!Posted on Google![]()
Matt Wheatley20 October 2026
Great teacher, really easy to be around and great at adapting his approach to different students - would highly recommend!Posted on Google![]()
Carly19 October 2026
Mo is a fantastic driving instructor — incredibly professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely committed to helping his students pass their test. He taught me to drive from scratch and was always on the ball, making sure I learned from my mistakes, built my confidence, and improved with every lesson. He’s super reliable and always goes out of his way to do what he can for his students. You can tell he genuinely cares about helping you succeed and will do everything he can to give you the best chance of passing. He’s also extremely knowledgeable about cars and driving in general, so you always feel like you’re learning from someone who really knows his stuff. What I appreciated most was how understanding and adaptable he was to my ADHD, making little adjustments and reminding me of things when needed, which made such a difference to my learning experience. He was always patient, supportive, and encouraging! On top of all that, he’s super easy to talk to, really chilled, and has a great music selection, which makes lessons so much more enjoyable! I genuinely couldn’t have asked for a better instructor and would recommend Mo to anyone looking to learn to drive. Thanks for everything, Mo — and sorry for all the wrong turns hahah! 😂Posted on Google![]()
Maddie Tait19 October 2026
Thanks to the incredible Syed, I managed to pass first time. I couldn’t have asked for a more supportive, patient and knowledgeable driving instructor. I would highly recommend. Thanks HHDS.Posted on Google![]()
Joel W15 October 2026
Passed first try with 0 faults at Mitcham! Huge thanks to Greg for all the support. He was super patient, motivating, and just a top-quality instructor overall. I couldn't have asked for a better guy to learn with. If there was an option to give ten stars, I would. 100% recommend.Posted on Google![]()
Georgia Hudson12 October 2026
Johan was a patient teacher who really helped me build my confidence and pass. I’d highly recommend him!
Below, you can explore our Frequently Asked Questions section for answers to common inquiries about our driving school, programs, and services. In addition, we’re here to provide clarity and address your concerns as you embark on your journey to becoming a skilled driver.
Make sure you have a provisional licence.
Remember your glasses/contact lenses if you need them.
Wear suitable shoes.
Book a lesson at a time that is suitable for you.
Ask questions if you are unsure about something
Automatic cars are now increasingly common, not only are they easier (and more relaxing) to drive than a manual, in some cases they can be better on fuel and can cost less to maintain. Automatic cars are generally easier and quicker to learn in since there is no emphasis on learning to use the clutch or gearstick, this means it´s more than likely going to be more expensive to learn to drive a manual car as you will need more lessons.
The first thing to bear in mind is if you learn to drive in an automatic car, you will only be allowed to drive automatic cars going forward whereas if you learn in a manual you can choose whether you want to drive a manual or automatic once you’ve passed your test.
A manual licence covers both types of cars while an automatic licence only covers automatic cars. However, the cost of driving lessons isn’t cheap and, inevitably, learning to drive in a manual car takes longer as you have to be trained to use the clutch and the gearbox. This means it’s more than likely going to be more expensive to learn to drive a manual car as you will need more lessons
However, automatic lessons are often more expensive so it’s worth doing the maths before you make your decision.
Yes. Lessons can be adapted to your experience and confidence level. For example, you can begin with quieter roads before gradually moving onto busier routes and junctions.
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