Click here and put your detail on our waiting list for driving lessons we have daytime availability coming up soon. Please put your availability in the notes section.

The-Driving-Academy, a locally-rooted driving school in Bishop Auckland, is led by Andy McDonald and Darran Shaw, both recognized by the DVSA as top-tier driving instructors.

Beyond their roles as educators, Andy and Darran actively contribute to the training and development of their team of instructors, embodying a commitment to excellence.

Passionate about driver training, Andy and Darran aim to create an environment where customers feel genuinely valued. The core philosophy is centered on delivering a positive and enjoyable learning experience. The emphasis is on cultivating a fun atmosphere that allows pupils to feel at ease and relish their journey to becoming skilled drivers.

The-Driving-Academy stands out by incorporating a fresh teaching style. Utilizing innovative tools such as iPads, dash cams, and an interactive theory website, they ensure a dynamic and engaging learning process. Coupled with high-quality in-car training, the academy is dedicated to providing a comprehensive and effective approach to driver education.

https://www.traditionrolex.com/41

Intensive Courses

We can’t currently offer any intense courses due to long waiting times for practical tests.

ADI Training

We offer ADI part 1,2 and 3 training in the local Bishop Auckland and Durham area

Block of 10 hours

We offer blocks of 10 hours for £330. This is the most cost effective way to lean to drive

1.5 Hour Lessons

You can pay as you go with weekly driving lessons £54 for 1.5 hours

2 Hour Driving Lessons

Pay as you go for £68 for 2 hour weekly driving lessons

Under 17 Driving-Academy

Next event is Saturday 4th January 2025

Please message for availability, we have both automatic and manual cars. Price is £50 for the hour session for ages 14-16. These slots sell quickly as they make a perfect birthday gift.

Big shout out to Ken, my daughter was initially nervous to learn to drive. Ken worked with her and in no time built up her confidence. She passed with no minor points. Highly recommend The-Driving-Academy – Kelly-Ann Hinder

Neive Hinder – Bishop Auckland

Peter Williams perfect instructor had such a blast and passed first time. Explained everything perfectly and was bubbly and chatty to keep you confident and calm. would rate 6/5 if i could – George Lamb

George Lamb – Bishop Auckland

I changed instructors to Peter and he was so friendly and funny, I couldn’t have asked for a better instructor. I passed first time with Peter, he’s really helped me grow my confidence within driving and I appreciate all the help and advice he’s given me. Thank you so much!! 🚗 – Ellie Grant

Ellie Grant – Bishop Auckland

I had Ken as my instructor and he was a star!! He was so patient with me which really helped boost my confidence in driving! I’m over the moon about my pass thank you so much 💖 I 100% recommend The-Driving-Academy  – Miriam Nyakato

Miriam Nyakato – Bishop Auckland

Joanna was my instructor- so patient and kind! She always helped me feel at ease and supported me to pass first time. I am very grateful and couldn’t have asked for a better instructor – Tammy Tyler

Tammy Tyler – Stanhope Bishop Auckland

Passed my test with ease only 3 months into driving, Darran was extremely patient with my progress and explained everything extremely well. The under 17 classes are very valuable too…. They teach a lot and give a big boost towards driving for the first time on the roads! – Jake Ward

Jake Ward – Bishop Auckland

I highly recommend The-Driving-Academy. My son had lessons with Darran and my son at the time suffered bad with anxiety. Darran kept him calm and took the lessons at my son’s own pace. He’s now passed his driving test at his 1st attempt and loving his new found freedom – Lindsay Johnson

Matthew Johnson – Bishop Auckland

Passed first time with Adam, would highly recommend – Jack Facey

Jack Facey – Durham

Fantastic company!! Couldn’t have passed without the help from my amazing instructor Joanna. Taught me everything in an excellent manner and helped me ace my Test 😁 – Jess Swales

Jess Swales – Ramshaw Bishop Auckland

I learnt to drive with Andy and I truly couldn’t have asked for a better instructor! I was with Andy for a couple of Under 17s lessons and those massively helped my confidence before getting on the main roads! I’ve almost been passed for a year and would really recommend Andy and the rest of The-Driving-Academy – Bethany O’Neil

Bethany O’Neil – Bishop Auckland

Couldn’t thank Adam enough for being so patient with me and the support! Would recommend The-Driving-Academy to anybody learning to drive – Shauner Molloy

Shauner-Olivia Molloy – Ferryhill

I cannot praise The Driving Academy and Andy enough. Due to past health issues, driving was something I never thought would be possible for me but Andy was patient, kind and supportive and he helped me grow my confidence and before I knew it I was so comfortable behind the wheel and ultimately passed my test first time.
Andy has been there for me every step of the way through my driving journey even when I’ve had my nervous wobbles he’s been an amazing friend and mentor.
If anyone is looking for a place to learn to drive then The Driving Academy and their incredible instructors are without a doubt the best choice you can make.
The only downside is that I can’t keep Andy in the passenger seat when I’m driving forever because he’s been so amazing. 5 stars is not enough for how fabulous The-Driving-Academy truly are – Georgina Shine

Georgina Shine – Evenwood Bishop Auckland