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If you’ve seen Darren’s Automatic Driving in and around the Neath area, then head over to my Facebook page and give me a like. You can also read some reviews from local people.

Theory Test Support

You can still take driving lessons before you’ve passed your theory test. I will give you all the support you need to help you bring both the theory knowledge and practical driving skills together.

High Pass Rate

Passing your driving test is one of the best feelings in the world. Once you have your driving licence, the world is your oyster. It opens up a whole new world for you.

Welcome to Darren’s Automatic Driving

Hi, I’m Darren from Darren’s Automatic Driving in Neath and I pride myself on being a top graded instructor as graded by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). I specialise in teaching you how to drive safely and help you to pass your driving test as quickly as possible.

Obviously you’re here because you’re probably looking for driving lessons or maybe looking to book lessons for someone you know. If so, then I just want to let you know that I teach using the most up-to-date methods and techniques. My style of teaching revolves around what is called Client Centred Learning, or CCL for short. The techniques I use to teach are based around methods that help you to learn quicker and become a safe and confident driver. Each lesson will be customised to suit you, this ensures that you’re not wasting your money and you reach the standard to pass your driving test much quicker. You will be learning in a Toyota Yaris Hybrid automatic car which is a pleasure to drive.

Think you can’t drive because of your disability, then watch this video DSA Workfit.

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Pass Your Driving Test FIRST TIME
By following my simple and easy learning methods, you’ll be well on your way to pass your driving test first time. Just simply get in touch to make an enquiry.

Thank you so much Darren.

You’ve brought me out of my shell, both in driving ability and personal life. I’m forever indebted to you for what you have done for me.

Grateful to have called you my instructor.

Kattie from Neath Abbey

I cannot recommend Darren enough. I had started my lessons aged 17 using manual transmission, I struggle majorly with anxiety and lack of self-confidence and three instructors later I found the person who got me through it all aged 21, like it was easy!!!  4 months of lessons with laughs and smiles, being reassured every step of the way! I never ever looked forward to lessons until a few months ago, I love driving now. I passed today with only 2 minor faults, I’m over the moon. Darren was not only a driving instructor but he’s now a friend for life. Thank you.

Jess Horton

I would absolutely recommend Darren as a driving instructor especially if you are someone who suffers with anxiety. He is super friendly, patient and supportive.

Ieuan Morgan

Highly recommend Darren as a driving instructor, he was patient and catered to my needs as I was a nervous driver to begin with and Darren was able to build my confidence. I was able to pass my test first time with him.

Richard Edwards

Couldn’t recommend a better driving instructor! After learning manual for year and then going automatic 5 days before my test, Darren made the conversion so easy. I ended up passing first time. He makes you feel comfortable by being so friendly and welcoming. Would give 5*

Emily from Clydach

Went to have my first driving lesson with Darren. Having previously had bad experience with different instructors I was very worried of how my first lesson would have gone , but Darren is an amazing instructor , boosted my confidence and has totally reinstated faith into driving lessons for me. I’m looking forward to all my lessons with him and I’m confident with his help I will achieve my goal . 5 stars ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Elisabetta from Swansea

The last 3 months learning with Darren have been incredible, after previously having a bad experience with a driving instructor I was a bit apprehensive but even from the first lesson I was so comfortable with Darren. He made me feel at ease, comforted me when I felt like giving up and lifted my spirt right away. He made passing first time for me real when I never thought I could. Lovely, friendly and funny guy. I’m going to miss not having our lessons. Would highly recommend.

Jessica from Neath

I would highly recommend Darren as a driving instructor, very comfortable to be around and patient when teaching. I simply wouldn’t of passed so quickly and first time without him

Chloe

I thank Darren for everything he has done for me in helping me pass my driving test. I would trust this man with my life, he’s helped me in more than just driving. He’s an absolute gentleman and I am glad to call him a friend. I highly recommend.

Reece, Glynneath

Fantastic instructor, very clear and direct lessons. Amazing communication throughout the entire learning experience. Honestly couldn’t have done it with any other instructor. I can’t thank Darren enough for all the help and experience over the last 6 months. Would highly recommend him as an instructor for anyone learning.

Dylan from Pontardawe

Darren, what a legend you are, 1st class instructor, you got me to my test with patience and understanding, which I appreciate so much. Thank you for all your assistance and advise. A friend for life. You have changed my life. Passing my test with your training is such a good feeling. Cheers.

Andrew from Neath

I can’t thank Darren enough for his patience and knowledgeable coaching to get me to pass my driving test. I never thought I would get my licence, but with his help, encouragement and positivity, I have. I’m so grateful to him for sticking with me even though I wasn’t easy to teach on times. Don’t hesitate to start learning with him. I’m so glad I found him. He’s the best. Thank you again Darren. 5*

Kelly from Aberavon

I cannot recommend Darren enough. At 31 I thought I’d never get to the point of learning to drive, let alone passing. Friday 13th is definitely a good day for me, with Darren’s help and patience I managed a first time pass with zero faults. I will miss our lessons, you made learning to drive fun and enjoyable. Thank you for all your help over the last 5 months.

Carly from Crynant

After years of personal struggle with driving and three instructors down, I decided to try automatic with Darren Baker and it was the best decision I’ve made. We’ve had tears and laughs but after hard work and dedication, he gave me the confidence and knowledge to achieve my goal.

What a wonderful person and brilliant driving instructor. I shall miss him. Let the adventures begin.

Nyla from Baglan

I would highly recommend Darren’s Automatic Driving. I had been trying to learn for years and just couldn’t get it so gave up. I started with Darren and he made me feel comfortable and was very patient. With his patience and fabulous temperament I passed my test first time. Thank you Darren for everything

Stacey from Pontardawe

Late to the party with passing my driving test at my age but what an amazing instructor I’ve had. Not only teaching me to drive PROPERLY but helping me with many other life problems. Going to miss our weekly therapy sessions. Couldn’t have done it without you. Darren Baker you’ll always be a big part of my life. Here’s to the open road.

Ellie from Port Talbot

Can’t thank Darren Baker enough for the last few months getting me through my driving test. He has the patience of a saint. Highly, highly recommend. Thank you for everything, I will forever be thankful.

Sean from Aberavon

Darren has been an amazing instructor. He’s been patient and helpful over the last two and a half years. Always trying to bring the best out in me, clearly explaining whenever I made mistakes. So glad I learnt with him. I’d recommend him to anyone.

Reuben from Tonna

So grateful to Darren. I fully believed that I wasn’t capable of driving, but here I am with a license. Thank you so much for not only teaching me but for giving me the confidence to do it. I couldn’t recommend Darren more.

Corina from Neath Abbey

Thank you so much Darren. I found learning to drive difficult because of my anxiety. I always doubt myself, but Darren helped me finally pass my test. I’m so grateful for all the support and patience you have shown me. Thank you for everything.

Rebecca from Alltwen

I started with a little driving experience, lots of anxiety and many driving faults. Darren got me to test passing quality within a few months at a time when I was having several health issues and he was particularly good at adapting his methods to match my abilities on the day. Thanks Darren.

Jessie from Aberdulais

Darren is an amazing instructor, he’s helped me so much with my driving lessons and gave me so much confidence. I really appreciate the patience in the lessons he’s had with me, I enjoyed the lessons so much. Darren is an incredible instructor and I highly recommend him to anyone wanting to drive. Thanks for everything.

Jonathan from Glynneath

Sitting in shock…I am a qualified driver!!

After years of personal struggle with driving and three instructors down, I decided to try automatic with Darren Baker and it was the best decision I’ve made. We’ve had tears and laughs, but after hard work and dedication, he gave me the confidence and knowledge to achieve driving. What a wonderful person and brilliant driving instructor…I shall miss him. Let the adventures begin.

Nyla Marie from Baglan

At 33 I thought I’d never gain the confidence I needed to get myself on the road. Today, December 1st 2023, I finally passed my driving test.

Darren Baker, there are no words I can use to explain just how grateful I am to you for giving me not only the confidence but the support and help you have given me over the last four months. To say I shit myself when you had booked my test after just four lessons with you was an understatement. It’s been an experience to say the least! Thank you for having the confidence in me and my driving ability and changing mine and my families life. See you on the road, I will miss you.

Katie from Briton Ferry

If anyone is thinking of learning to drive then I can highly recommend Darren. He goes above and beyond as an instructor. With his help I passed my test first time. A massive thank you to Darren for helping me achieve that.

Tyler from Baglan

Before meeting Darren, being able to drive was just a dream. He was patient, caring and always went at my pace. Having struggled with anxiety, I was an extremely nervous learner, something that Darren helped me overcome. Not only is he an exceptional teacher but also a lovely person and will be dearly missed. I’d recommend him to anyone who wants to learn and especially if you are one that thinks you will never drive. Because, with Darren, you will. Thank you for everything you have done for me.

Saskia from Alltwen

Darren – What can I say – You have the patience of a saint with the way I would natter on during lessons!

Thank you for everything you’ve done, from driving to life advice, you’ve been a fantastic guide. I couldn’t recommend anyone more, such a stand up guy.

Thank you for everything.

Corey from Resolven

Darren is the type of instructor that will not only ensure you pass your test, but also teach you to be the best and safest on the road. He does not cut corners and his methods are very effective. Additionally, he is professional as well as humourous. I could not recommend him enough. I consider myself lucky to have been taught by Darren!

Leanne from Resolven

If you are anxious or nervous about driving like I was, at the age of 36 I thought I was never going to overcome my fear of driving, but with the help of Darren and his amazing, calm but helpful teaching skills I was able  to pass first time with zero faults. I would highly recommend Darren to anyone wanting to learn to drive.

Ashley from Skewen

Absolutely amazing driving instructor, so kind and understanding. Would recommend him highly. Kept me at ease all the way through my lessons and at my test. Thank you so much.

Chloe from Glynneath

Courses

It doesn’t matter whether you’re a complete beginner or maybe you want some help in general with your driving. I can tailor a driving course to suit your needs and circumstances.

Areas covered

Areas Covered

Darren’s Automatic Driving covers most areas within a 10 mile radius of Neath. If you don’t see your area listed, then please get in touch to see if we do cover your area.

SA7, SA8, SA10, SA11, SA12

Beginners

Darren’s Automatic Driving has 2 main aims, my first is to make sure that you’re a safe driver and my second aim is to help you pass your driving test. The driving test is just a measure of your driving ability, checking to make sure you are a safe driver.

On your first driving lesson, you will be driving, and over the course of your next couple of lessons you’ll be learning the foundations to safe driving for life and for passing your driving test. I will ask that on each of your driving lessons you use these foundations because they will not only make you safe but also help turn you into a natural, stress free driver – making driving fun!

Indeed driving can be a lot of fun but many people get stressed but I will show you how to drive in a hassle free environment, and even on your first driving lesson you will be loving it.

Nationally, about 47% of learners pass the driving test first time, whilst my first time pass rate in automatic is over 69%
You want to be going into your driving test with every opportunity of passing first time, after all, you are paying for professional driving lessons so it’s only fair you go into your driving test with every chance of passing first time. The reason my pass rate is higher is that I will teach you to drive with confidence before taking the test. As all instructors should, I teach you to drive, not to just pass a driving test

If you want to stand a better chance of passing your driving test first time then get in touch.

Part Trained

This is a course for learner drivers who have already started taking driving lessons with either another driving school or privately perhaps with friends or a member of the family. It may be that you’re more developed than a beginner and therefore don’t need to start from scratch.

Tell Me About Your Experience
When you first contact me, I’ll ask you some questions about any previous driving experience and ask you about some of the things you have already done. Some people stop learning to drive because they may have had a bad experience with their previous driving instructor. Or it may be that you just had a bad experience overall and have stopped driving for a while but now want to start up again. Once I’ve established where you are with your driving, I can then start to put a plan and strategy together to help you work towards your driving test. Everyone is different and all lessons are personal to you, by formulating a plan for you and having a structure it helps you to learn in fewer lessons., therefore saving you money and time.

Your First Driving Lesson
When we first, meet due to the phone call we had together, I will have a good idea of what you can do so maybe a small evaluation lesson may be a good idea. This will show both of us of what you’re good at and as mentioned earlier, it will help me to create a plan for you so you can concentrate on any areas of development.

At the end of this driving lesson, you will have leaned some new skills, improved your current skills and will have a development plan charting your way to become a safe driver in order to pass the driving test.

Confidence Building

This is a course for drivers who may suffer from a lack of confidence when it comes to driving. The aim of this short course is not to pass your driving test as you may have already passed, albeit, it may have been some time ago? My aim is to purely help you to develop the skills and re-gain the confidence you need to feel comfortable driving again.

It may be that you feel anxious driving in traffic or perhaps on motorways and dread doing a long journey. Whatever your reasons are for wanting to do a confidence course, the hardest step is to make that first phone call to me. Once we meet, we can talk about any anxieties or fears you have and we can then both get to work to formulate a plan which will help you to regain that confidence again.

Some background information
Anxiety affects many millions of people and it can stand in the way of your dreams and ambitions, it can make every day a living hell for some and at best hold people back and limit their possibilities. In fact anxiety and stress is now one of the most important health problems according the World Health Organisation.

Another fact for you,  it is now suspected that up to 80% of illness is started through stress. a stressed mind creates a stressed body , too much stress affects the immune system and the body can start to break down. If you’re stressed or anxious whilst driving then your brain and body can just simply shut down, this can have catastrophic consequences, especially if you’re travelling on busy roads.

A survey of UK drivers recently discovered that as much as 70% of drivers had lost concentration whilst driving due to stress. We will work together to calm your anxious mind and re-gain your confidence so you will feel comfortable in all driving conditions.

Driving Test Rescue

So, you’ve failed your driving test? You feel gutted, you feel devastated and you may even feel embarrassed? “Have you considered that might not have been your fault? If you have been repeatedly failing driving tests you have probably started to doubt yourself with thoughts like, are you good enough, and will you ever be able to pass the test? It can be quite disheartening and as controversial as this sounds but the truth why you’re failing driving test could be down to the training you received was not adequate.

Not only repeatedly failing your test is devastating for you, but it’s also expensive too.

The Driving Test Rescue Course Explained…
My first job is to have a quick consultation period with you and then a bit of a drive. By listening to you and observing you on a short assessment drive, I’ll quickly be able to get to the route of the matter of why you’re failing and what has been going wrong for you and how to fix the problem.

The assessment drive is just that, it’s not a test so the pressure is totally off and if anything only what you have been taught is under scrutiny, you are not. I’ll be looking at the areas where you excel and the areas that need further development and could comprise of technical ability, understanding, confidence and anticipation. Once I’ve assessed your driving, I can then work on a plan for you to help you to start putting things right.

Every time you fail a driving test it costs you in the region of £300 to include a new test, the hire of the car and instructors time and also the remedial lessons. So now is the time to put this right. Let’s get you through your next test.

Get in Touch

Alternatively, you can contact me either by phone or email:

Phone: 0781 445 3904
Email: darren@darrensdrivingschoolneath.co.uk