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Essential Top Tips to Successfully Pass Your Driving Test in SE25 Manual driving lessons SE25
Passing your driving test in SE25 can feel like a big challenge, but with the right preparation and mindset, you can increase your chances of success. Passing your driving test is a huge milestone, and for many learners in SE25, it can feel like a nerve wracking challenge. As a local manual driving instructor I've helped countless students in South London build confidence, master the skills they need and succeed on their first attempt. This area has its own unique roads, tra

Richard Atkins
Jan 265 min read


Choosing Between Manual and Automatic Driving Lessons for Your Learning Style Manual driving lessons SE25
Learning to drive is a major step toward independence, but deciding whether to take manual or automatic driving lessons can be confusing. Each option offers unique benefits and challenges, and the best choice depends on your personal preferences, goals, and learning style. When it comes to learning to drive, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to take manual or automatic lessons. Both options have their benefits, but the right choice depends on your goals, confi

Richard Atkins
Jan 124 min read


If you are looking for a manual driving instructor in Crystal Palace here are some Essential Tips for Navigating Driving Test Routes in West Wickham Bromley and Mitcham
If you’re preparing for your driving test in West Wickham, Bromley or Mitcham, knowing the local routes can make all the difference. As a manual driving instructor based in SE25, I’ve guided many learners through test centres, helping them build confidence on the roads they’re most likely to face. Here’s what you need to know about West Wickham, Bromley and Mitcham driving test routes. Preparing for your driving test can be stressful, especially when you are unfamiliar with t

Richard Atkins
Jan 14 min read


What the 2025 Driving Test Changes Mean for Learners in South Norwood & Crystal Palace”
The DVSA has introduced significant changes to the UK driving test in 2025, focusing on road safety and real‑world driving conditions. Learners will now spend more time on faster roads, face fewer stops, experience longer independent driving, and book tests directly through a revised system. As a local driving instructor doing manual driving lessons in South Norwood and Crystal Palace I have the expertise in preparing pupils for faster roads and independent driving. In all my

Richard Atkins
Dec 15, 20252 min read


🚗 The Driving Test Booking Backlog in 2025: What Learners Need to Know
Introduction For thousands of learner drivers across the UK, booking a driving test has become one of the most frustrating hurdles on the road to independence. In 2025, the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) continues to face a significant backlog in driving test appointments, leaving many learners waiting months for a slot. This backlog isn’t just an inconvenience — it has real consequences for learners, instructors, and road safety. In this blog, we’ll explore the r

Richard Atkins
Dec 8, 20254 min read


Examining the Potential Impact of Proposed Increases to Driving Test Costs by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency
The recent plans from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) have sparked significant discussion among learner drivers, vehicle owners, and the broader public. The proposed changes include potential cost increases for theory and practical driving tests, as well as vehicle roadworthiness checks, including MOT services. Understanding these implications is crucial, as they may affect various stakeholders across the board. Understanding the Proposed Increases The DVSA is

Richard Atkins
Feb 5, 20252 min read


Manual driving lessons South Norwood - 20 Years and counting
1 June 2004 I started my journey as a driving instructor so just the other day, 1 June 2024, I reached the 20 years mark Never expected to still be here 20 years later as the plan was to try something different for a year or two and move on, I've only ever had two full time jobs my whole life and wanted new experiences. Working self employed and being self sufficient, having flexibility in work hours and time off meant the job suited my new lifestyle. Plus I like what I do, I

Richard Atkins
Jun 11, 20241 min read



Richard Atkins
Jan 3, 20220 min read


Buzzing like a busy bee Me! For Manual driving lessons Crystal Palace
Sami celebrates passing his driving test on the first attempt with Richard Atkins Driving School, proudly holding his certificate next to a car. Im buzzing like a busy bee this morning thinking about going back to work on 12th April! I can't wait I've had enough of the lockdown Groundhog Day daily grind, want to go back to work and get some normality back into my life. I haven't worked for 4 months since late December 2020 and haven't earned any money since then either. Ive

Richard Atkins
Apr 7, 20211 min read


First Covid Vaccination
So, I had my first Covid jab, (22 February) I was slightly surprised at how quick and easy it was to log in to the system book the...

Richard Atkins
Mar 15, 20212 min read


Driving test time tunnel 15 February 2017
I learned with Richard from scratch and passed my driving test 1st time within 6months. An excellent driving instructor - would highly...

Richard Atkins
Feb 15, 20211 min read


Driving Test Time Tunnel 15th February 2018 for Manual driving lessons South Norwood
Nab Passed his driving test 15th February 2018 15 February 2018 Nab passes his test at Hither Green test centre If you are serious about passing your driving test, then Richard is the right guy for the job. He knows how to get you there. I passed with 1 minor fault thanks to him. I particularly liked his high professionalism: always on time and 100% focused on your driving. He also has a great ability to explain things in simple words - you can learn manoeuvres/driving tips q

Richard Atkins
Feb 15, 20211 min read


Driving Test Time Tunnel:11 February 2015
Driving Test Time Tunnel: (11th February 2015) Mary passes her driving test at Croydon test centre! The bun in the oven detered her no less

Richard Atkins
Feb 11, 20211 min read


Driving Test Time Tunnel: 8 Years ago today (5th February 2013)
T passed her driving test with me 8 years ago today (5 February 2013) first time from scratch a Sidcup during test centre

Richard Atkins
Feb 5, 20211 min read



Richard Atkins
Jan 26, 20210 min read
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