Book Your First Driving Lesson

Booking your first driving lesson can feel like a big step, especially if you’re not sure what to expect. At Rio Driving School, we make it simple, supportive and stress-free. Whether you’re excited to get behind the wheel or feeling a little nervous, our experienced instructors will guide you from the very beginning, helping you build confidence in a calm and friendly environment.

We offer flexible, affordable driving lessons across locations like Walsall, Wolverhampton, Cannock, Lichfield, Sutton Coldfield and surrounding areas – with pick-up and drop-off arranged at your convenience.

Over
2000+
learners taught

98%
driving test pass rate
on manual tests

1 hour driving lessons
from just
£36

What to Expect on Your First Driving Lesson

Relax – we’ll go at your pace.

Your first driving lesson is all about helping you feel safe, relaxed and in control. You won’t be thrown into traffic or asked to do anything you’re not ready for. Instead, we start with the basics in a quiet area so you can get comfortable with the car and how it responds, and that goes for both manual and automatic lessons.

Here’s what your first lesson typically includes:

  • An intro to the car’s controls – clutch, brake, accelerator, gears and steering

  • How to adjust your seat, mirrors and driving position

  • Steering control and proper positioning on the road

  • How to slow down and stop safely

  • Guidance on approaching junctions safely

  • Finding the biting point and learning how to move off smoothly

  • Basic starting, stopping, steering and gear changes

  • How to use all your mirrors and signals correctly

  • Performing the cockpit drill (DSSSM routine)

  • What to expect on your coming lessons

Your instructor will explain each step clearly and answer any questions you might have along the way. You’ll finish your first lesson with a real sense of progress and a clear idea of what comes next.

Nervous About Driving for the First Time?

You’re not alone and we’re here to help! Many of our learners feel anxious before their first lesson, and that’s completely normal. At Rio, we specialise in helping nervous or unsure drivers build confidence gradually. All of our instructors are friendly, patient and trained to adapt their teaching style to suit your pace. We understand that sometimes, having your choice of driving instructor can make a big difference, whether you feel more comfortable with a particular gender or age range – we will take into consideration any special requests when it comes to instructor selection.

You’ll never be rushed or pushed into anything you’re not ready for. We take things step by step, giving you space to ask questions and plenty of time to practise each skill. Whether it’s your first driving lesson ever or just your first with us, you’re in safe hands.

What You’ll Need for Your First Driving Lesson

Before you get started, make sure you’ve got the following:

  • A valid UK provisional driving licence
  • Comfortable footwear (avoid sandals, high heels or heavy boots)
  • Glasses or contact lenses if you need them for driving
  • A calm mindset (we’ll take care of the rest)

You don’t need to have passed your theory test to begin learning. In fact, we can help support your theory preparation alongside your driving lessons.

Book Your First Driving Lesson Today

Booking is quick and easy. Just contact us to check availability in your area and we’ll get you matched with one of our qualified instructors. We offer flexible lesson times, including evenings and weekends, and we’ll pick you up from home, work or college – wherever suits you best.

Couldn’t thank Peter and Rio Driving School enough for all their support. I would definitely recommend them if you are looking to pass your driving test! I have tried many other driving schools but they are the best. Thank you so much.

Safoora Hussain, January 2024

Gary Bennett is what you want in a driving instructor. He takes time with the areas of driving you’re struggling with and allows you to go at your own pace which is priceless when learning something new. He Is always on time if not early, which is a rarity with driving instructors from my personal experience. Always gives plenty of time and options when booking new lessons and is an all round great instructor to use! Highly recommend.

Louis, January 2025

Gary was an exceptional tutor; he gave me the required confidence and ability to pass my test first time! Thank you Gary for all your help and support.

 

Cameron, February 2025

Passed after lessons with Lee!! He is an amazing instructor, he helped me build my confidence and was so patient. I highly recommend him and would say he is a credit to Rio.

 

Mia, February 2025

I have just passed my test and couldn’t have done this without my instructor Gary of Rio Driving. He is very patient and helpful, particularly when I have been very anxious when driving. I would highly recommend Gary as an instructor to anyone who is a little fearful of driving! For me, Gary always made driving lessons fun, easy and relaxed. Thanks for all of your help Gary you’re the best!!!!

 

Sharon, March 2025

Gary is a second to none driving instructor. I’ve been with Gary for almost 3 years now and every lesson I’ve felt more and more confident. He is a great teacher and a patient person who will make sure you get where you need to be with your driving. Can’t praise him enough!!

 

Ethan, April 2025

Book Driving Lessons

If you have any questions or would like to book lessons please call 0800 566 8636 or complete the form below.



    Prepare for your Theory Test

    For more information or to book lessons please call
    0800 566 8636