Driving Lessons in Shirley (B90) Master Stratford Road with Local, DVSA-Approved Instructors
Learn to drive in Shirley with a DVSA-approved instructor and practise on the roads around Birmingham (Shirley) Driving Test Centre. Kudos offers manual, automatic, intensive, refresher and nervous-driver lessons in and around B90, subject to instructor availability. You can build your confidence on quieter residential roads before progressing to busier local routes such as the A34 Stratford Road, Warwick Road, Haslucks Green Road, Cranmore Boulevard and the surrounding roundabouts.
🎉 Special Offer: First lesson for new learners!
What Our Shirley Learners Say
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Kanahiryan KebedeTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I had a great experience practicing to drive with my driving instructor Janaid, he was very helpful and made sure I understudy my faults so I was able to properly correct them and build good habits in time for my test. I passed and I am very grateful for his support.![]()
Ladis LebTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Waqar is a legendary-level driving instructor 🏆. I started driving with him in November 2025. I was initially nervous before the first lesson as I hadn't driven in two years. However Waqar was super friendly and his clear instructions helped me gain my confidence back. Every lesson thereafter was smooth, I quickly gained the experience and confidence needed and by feb/march 2026 I felt fully ready. I secured a test date for June 2026 and passed my test first try! I really really recommend Waqar. In addition to being a great instructor, he is very fun to talk to and has a very kind heart. You'll always leave the lesson with a smile!![]()
olivia shawTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I had waqar as a driving instructor, he was great! A very understanding, helpful and friendly instructor who made me feel comfortable and confident. He helped me pass first time with 0 minors, can’t recommend him and the company enough!![]()
Rozeen FatimaTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I had an amazing experience of driving lessons with Junaid Bhai.Thankyou Junaid bhai for your assistance![]()
vaneeza noorTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I had an amazing experience with my driving classes with junaid bhai and i m grateful for his assistance in my lessons![]()
Rahul RamcharanTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Definitely recommend to everyone. Waqar an amazing driving instructor. No complaints![]()
ujjawal kansaraTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Passing my driving test in 1st attempt would not have been possible without such an amazing instructor. From the very first lesson, WAQAR is professional, friendly, and incredibly supportive. His calm approach and excellent teaching style made learning to drive much less stressful and much more enjoyable. He took the time to explain mistakes constructively and helped me improve with every lesson. Most importantly, he gave me the confidence I needed to succeed. Thank you for all your hard work and encouragement—I highly recommend your lessons to anyone preparing for their driving test.![]()
ShamTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Had a great experience with Kudos. Waqar helped me to sharpen my driving skills and pass my test, with 8 hours of lessons, on my first try. Would definitely reccomend to anyone looking for a reliable and honest instructor.![]()
Philip DoeTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I had a fantastic experience learning to drive with Waqar. He is a highly professional, patient, encouraging, and dedicated instructor who consistently went above and beyond to support me throughout my driving journey. What stood out most was his ability to build my confidence, especially during challenging moments and setbacks. His calm approach, expert guidance, and unwavering encouragement helped me stay motivated and continue improving. Thanks to his hard work and commitment, I felt well-prepared and confident behind the wheel. I would highly recommend Waqar to anyone looking to learn to drive, and I will certainly be recommending him to my friends and family.![]()
Musawar AhmadTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Just passed my test on automatic and I owe it all to Junaid! He’s such a legend—super chill, patient, and made the whole process way less stressful. He knows all the ‘Morden’ test routes inside out and really helped me nail the tricky parts. If you're looking for an instructor who’s easy to get along with and gets results, Junaid is your guy. Thanks again!
Why Choose Kudos Driving School in Shirley?
Learners choose Kudos for patient instruction, genuine local knowledge of Shirley and Solihull, and structured preparation built around the Shirley test routes. Every lesson is delivered by a DVSA-approved driving instructor who teaches to the current test standard.
- DVSA-approved instructors — safe driving, observation, positioning and manoeuvres to the current standard
- Manual and automatic lessons — a full licence with manual, or a simpler focus on the road with automatic
- Dual-control, fully insured cars for safer training
- Local B90 route knowledge — the A34 Stratford Road, Swan Island, Cranmore Boulevard and the residential grids
- Support for every learner — beginners, nervous drivers, returning drivers, and drivers new to UK roads or exchanging a foreign licence
- Flexible scheduling — weekday, evening and weekend lessons with doorstep pickup across Solihull
Driving Courses Available in Shirley
Kudos driving school offers a full range of driving courses in Shirley to suit every level and goal.
Automatic Driving Lessons
Intensive Driving Course
Manual Driving Lessons
Refresher Driving Lessons
Pass Plus Course
Nervous Driver Lessons
How Your Driving Lessons in Shirley Work
Easy Booking
Book your first lesson in under a minute — online, by phone, or via WhatsApp.
Doorstep Collection
We collect you from your doorstep — whether that is home, college, or work anywhere in Shirley.
Structured Progress
Learn with a structured driving syllabus. Your instructor assesses your skill level first, then tracks your progress at every lesson.
Pass Your Test
Practise real local routes and a full mock test, then sit your practical in the same dual-control car you trained in.
What Should You Expect When Learning to Drive in Mitcham?
Learning to drive in Mitcham means handling a real mix of roads, from quiet residential streets to busy A-roads and the mini-roundabouts the area is known for. This variety builds the observation, timing and hazard awareness you need to pass your test and drive confidently afterwards.
Your early lessons stay on calmer CR4 streets while you build control, then progress to the roads examiners use, like London Road (A217) and Mitcham Road (A236). Along the way you will practise:
- Busy junctions and safe gap selection
- Mini-roundabouts, signalling and lane discipline
- Meeting traffic on narrow, parked-up streets
- Parking manoeuvres and independent driving
With structured lessons and clear feedback after each drive, these local challenges soon become second nature.
Do You Need to Pass the Theory Test First?
Yes. You must pass the DVSA theory test before you can book your practical driving test in Shirley. The good news is you don't have to wait to start lessons. You can begin practical driving lessons with Kudos Driving School in Shirley before you've passed your theory test.
Test Format
Two parts: 50 multiple-choice questions and the hazard perception test. Current fees and booking are on the official GOV.UK site .
Provisional Licence
You'll need a valid UK provisional licence to book your theory test. Apply via DVLA .
Certificate Validity
Your theory pass is valid for two years. Book your practical test soon after you pass to make the most of that window.
Convenient Theory Test Centre Near Shirley
If you're learning to drive in Shirley, the Croydon theory test centre on George Street, near East Croydon station, is a convenient option to consider. Check the official GOV.UK website for available test centres, locations and booking details.
Support From Your Instructor
Your Kudos instructor can guide your theory and hazard-perception preparation alongside your driving lessons in Shirley, helping you build the knowledge and practical skills you need to progress towards your driving test.
Where Do You Take Your Driving Test in Shirley?
Shirley has its own DVSA practical test centre at 401 Stratford Road, B90 4AA (candidate parking via Union Road) — a real advantage, because you can train on the exact roads examiners use, and it carries one of the higher pass rates in the Birmingham area. If you’d rather test elsewhere, the nearest centres are Garretts Green, South Yardley and Kings Heath.
Your test preparation covers junctions and roundabouts, lane discipline and positioning, independent driving, parallel parking, reverse and forward bay parking, pulling up on the right, show-me/tell-me questions, and the busy Stratford Road situations around B90.
You book your own practical test with the DVSA. No instructor can promise the exact route, but training on the Stratford Road routes means very little will surprise you on the day.
How Many Driving Lessons Will You Need in Shirley?
There’s no fixed number that guarantees a pass. Many learners reach test standard after around 45 hours of professional tuition plus about 22 hours of private practice (DVSA guidance), but it varies with your experience, whether you learn manual or automatic, how often you have lessons, how much you practise privately, and how quickly manoeuvres and independent driving click.
Your instructor reviews your progress regularly and tells you which skills still need work before you book your practical test.
What Does It Cost to Learn to Drive in Shirley?
Learning to drive is an investment in your independence and future. The total cost of earning your full UK driving licence in Shirley includes official DVSA fees and professional driving lessons tailored to your learning needs.
UK Provisional Licence
Online application through the DVLA.
DVSA Theory Test
Includes the multiple-choice and hazard perception tests.
DVSA Practical Test
£62 on weekdays or £75 during weekends and weekday evenings.
Professional Driving Lessons
Typical hourly rates in the Solihull area, depending on transmission and block bookings.
Invest in Your Driving Skills
Investing in structured, high-quality tuition can help you develop safe driving habits and prepare confidently for your practical test. Building your skills with a qualified instructor may also help reduce the likelihood of additional test attempts.
Official test fees can change. Visit the GOV.UK website for the latest booking information and fees.
Manual or Automatic Driving Lessons in Shirley?
Choose manual if you want a full licence with more flexibility. Choose automatic if you want a simpler learning experience and less pressure while you build confidence. The table below compares both options for Shirley learners.
| Factor | Manual | Automatic |
|---|---|---|
| Licence flexibility | Drive both manual and automatic cars | Drive automatic cars only |
| Learning difficulty | More technical | Simpler to learn |
| Best for | Learners who want more control | Nervous or beginner learners |
| Lesson focus | Clutch control, gears, coordination | Road awareness and smooth driving |
| Typical pace | Often slower at first | Often quicker to build confidence |
Your instructor in Mitcham can help you decide based on your goals before your first lesson.
Driving Lesson Prices & Packages in Shirley
Choose the best plan for your budget and goals
| Lesson or Course | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Tester Lesson, First Hour LIMITED TIME |
£15
£35
|
Ideal for beginners, no long-term commitment |
| Standard 2-Hour Lesson |
£68
£75
|
Focused tuition and progress tracking |
| 10-Hour Block Booking POPULAR |
£325
£375
|
Effective rate of £32.50 per hour |
| Intensive Course, 20 Hours |
£660
£700
|
Concentrated training over an agreed period |
| Pass Plus Course, 6 Hours |
£240
£260
|
Additional post-test driving experience |
| Practical Driving Test | £120–£150 | Instructor's car, pre-test warm-up lesson included |
Recent Shirley Test Passes & Google Student Reviews








Areas We Cover Around Shirley
Kudos provides driving lessons across Shirley and the surrounding areas, so learning stays local and convenient. We cover:
South West London
Birmingham
FAQ
anything
How much is a driving lesson in Shirley?
Kudos’ current Shirley rate should be confirmed when you enquire. Local prices vary by instructor, transmission, lesson length and whether you book a block. Ask whether the quoted price is for a manual or automatic lesson and whether lessons are normally booked for one or two hours.
Where is the Shirley driving test centre?
Birmingham (Shirley) Driving Test Centre is at 401 Stratford Road, Shirley, Solihull, B90 4AA.
What is the Shirley driving-test pass rate?
The latest published figure found for 2025/26 is 56.6% across 9,385 car tests. Pass rates change by reporting period and do not predict an individual learner’s result.
Can I start lessons before passing my theory test?
Yes. You can start practical lessons before passing theory. You must pass the theory test before taking your practical test.
Are automatic lessons available in Shirley?
Automatic lessons may be available subject to instructor and vehicle availability. Confirm this when booking, especially if you need a female instructor, weekend lessons or an intensive course.
Can I have a female driving instructor?
A female instructor may be available subject to scheduling. Mention your preference when you enquire so that Kudos can check current availability.
Do you offer nervous-driver lessons?
Yes, subject to instructor availability. Lessons can begin on quieter roads and progress gradually as your confidence improves.
Do you offer intensive driving courses?
Intensive training may be available following an assessment of your experience, timetable and test date. An instructor should confirm whether the proposed number of hours is realistic before you book.
How long will it take to pass?
It depends on your experience, lesson frequency, private practice and progress. Your instructor can assess your level and recommend a training plan, but no school can guarantee a pass date.
Book Your Driving Lessons
in Shirley
Start your driving lessons in Shirley with local, DVSA-approved instructors, flexible lesson options, and a supportive approach designed to help you become a safe, confident, and test-ready driver. Call +44 20 3158 6710 or message us on WhatsApp to book your first lesson today.