Business Details
28 Years
experience
Your Trusted Driving School in Torbay
Established in 1998, 1st Gear Driving School has grown into a trusted provider of driving tuition across South Devon. Our team of handpicked instructors delivers patient, professional instruction tailored to individual learning needs, offering weekly lessons, intensive courses, and Pass Plus training. We utilise modern vehicles equipped with dual controls to ensure safety and confidence during lessons, adhering to the latest DVSA standards.With a focus on transparency and customer satisfaction, we provide competitive pricing and flexible booking options, including male and female instructors across Torbay, Exeter, and surrounding areas. Our commitment to continuous improvement ensures pupils receive up-to-date training methods aligned with official highway code requirements.
Services
Driving Lessons
Intensive Courses
Pass Plus Training
Theory Test Prep
Instructor Training
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- We offer DVSA-aligned driving tuition with experienced, patient instructors.
- Our modern vehicles feature dual controls for enhanced safety during lessons.
- Flexible options include intensive courses, weekly lessons, and Pass Plus training.
- Competitive pricing with no hidden fees or unexpected costs.
- High pass rates achieved through tailored instruction and up-to-date teaching methods.
What people say
Calm and patient instructors
First-time pass success
Friendly professionalism
Flexible booking options
Modern vehicles with dual controls
Services
Driving Lessons
Professional driving instruction tailored to individual needs across Torbay and Exeter. Our DVSA-certified instructors use modern vehicles with dual controls to ensure safety and confidence. Lessons cover highway code compliance, hazard perception, and practical road skills for new drivers.
Intensive Courses
Accelerated driving programs completed in one week or spaced over multiple days. Includes theory test preparation, practical training, and mock tests to fast-track learner progress. Ideal for those seeking rapid certification with flexible scheduling options.
Pass Plus Training
Post-test training program improving driving skills in varied conditions. Covers motorway driving, night driving, and adverse weather techniques. Recognised by insurers for potential premium reductions, delivered by grade A/B certified instructors.
Theory Test Prep
Comprehensive preparation for both multiple-choice and hazard perception test components. Includes practice materials, hazard recognition drills, and official DVSA question bank training to ensure first-time pass success.
Instructor Training
Three-stage program qualifying candidates as Approved Driving Instructors. Combines theory test prep, advanced driving skills, and instructional technique training. Offers business management support for self-employed instructors.
People
Graham Woodcock
Founder
Established 1st Gear Driving School in 1998 after identifying a need for quality local driving tuition. With decades of experience, he developed the school's training framework and continues to mentor instructors across South Devon.
Tim
Driving Instructor
Patient instructor specialising in first-time learner tuition. Achieved multiple first-time pass successes through tailored lesson plans and calm teaching style, as evidenced by pupil testimonials.
Dan
Driving Instructor
Experienced instructor providing initial guidance to new learners. Known for clear explanations and approachable manner, contributing to the school's reputation for accessible driving education.
Questions
Can I start driving lessons before passing my theory test?
Yes, you can begin practical lessons with a provisional licence at age 17.
What areas do you cover for driving lessons?
We operate across Torbay, Exeter, Newton Abbot, Totnes, and surrounding Devon locations.
What's included in the practical driving test?
The test includes vehicle safety checks, hazard perception, road manoeuvres, and independent driving assessment.
How long does learning to drive typically take?
Most learners require 30-40 hours of practice, though private practice can reduce required lesson hours.
What training materials do you provide?
We offer theory test CDs, hazard perception practice, and official DVSA question banks for preparation.
Do you offer instructor training programs?
Yes, we provide full ADI qualification training including business management support for new instructors.
