Brighton Automatic Driving School

Doug was an outstanding driving instructor from start to finish. He carried himself with a high level of professionalism throughout every session, while also being genuinely courteous and easy to work with. What really stood out was his flexibility — he worked around my schedule and adjusted his teaching pace to suit my needs. Whether you're learning to drive for the first time or just looking for a refresher, I can't recommend Doug enough. Brighton Automated Driving School made an excellent choice having him on their team.

When I decided to learn to drive again, I booked a course with Doug. He was professional and calm, and despite me learning when I was heavily pregnant / with a newborn, Doug supported me to pass my test. He was reassuring and supportive, focusing on what was important to pass, and was very flexible with work and family commitments.

I had a lot of anxiety about the driving test, but Doug was really patient and adapted the lessons to suit what would make me comfortable. I've had other instructors but Doug's methods really stood out as the most effective, particularly for the manoeuvres. I would highly recommend Brighton Automatic Driving School to anyone who struggles with driving anxiety! With this course I finally managed to pass the test.

After 13 years of trying to get my drivers licence, multiple instructors and many very different experiences, Doug made it happen. I passed first time, confidently and competently. Not only do I now know that doing an intensive course is the most practical, logical way to ensure you pass your test. (Clearly, as I passed first time.) Doug was able to facilitate a learning environment that accommodated my learning ability and needs. As a learner driver, his ability to use a range of teaching skills to ensure I could learn in the way that matched my learning style. This meant that I felt completely safe, Doug gave me the practical tools to be a safe and confident driver, to understand the roads, and facilitated a space for me to be competent and fluid on the road. What is most exceptional about my experience, comparatively against other instructors, is that Doug was able to instruct and teach me not just how to pass my test, but how to actually leave that test centre confident in my ability to drive solo. And he did this with only 2.5 full days of driving. The days were breezy and enjoyable. I felt like a driver by day one, and was aware of exactly the areas I needed to focus on. Doug, thank you. I cannot recommend you highly enough. Whether you’re starting out for the first time, or you’re a later in life learner, Doug will meet you where you are and teach you in the way you learn best. He will do this with ease, patience and an abundance of knowledge. The value for money is second to none - do it. Get it done. Go for Doug. 💯

I secured a first-time pass with Doug at the Brighton Automatic Driving School after putting off learning for 49 years! Doug is incredibly experienced, clear in his instructions, and can answer any question readily. The learning is well structured and helps you build confidence, from creeping gingerly around quiet corners to driving confidently on busy roads. Doug was very committed to helping me pass first time, and built in extra lessons near my test to ensure I was prepared. This was much appreciated. The intensive course suited me and worked really well. Would highly recommend.

As somone with anxiety and autism, learning anything new is a stressful and longer process, not to mention as complex as driving. I appreciate the patience and understanding of Doug and his methods used to guide me through my intensive course. I am pleased to say I passed first time with relative ease.

Doug has been an absolutely excellent driving instructor and played a huge role in helping me pass my test. He was incredibly patient, always calm, and explained things clearly, which made learning to drive far less stressful and genuinely enjoyable. He was also very flexible with lesson times, which I really appreciated. I couldn’t have asked for a better instructor and would highly recommend Doug to anyone looking to learn to drive with confidence.