At Top Gear Driving Academy, our focus is on delivering reliable and results-oriented driving lessons across Torquay, Paignton, Brixham, Newton Abbot and Exeter. Backed by more than 25 years of teaching experience, we have established ourselves as a leading independent driving school in the South West. We assist learners of all backgrounds in developing the essential abilities and confidence required to succeed in their driving tests and adopt safe driving practices for life. Our lessons are individually structured to accommodate varying levels of experience and personal learning styles.
We employ only DVSA Grade A and RoSPA Gold qualified instructors, ensuring that every lesson meets the highest professional standards. Both manual and automatic driving tuition is available, supported by a fleet of modern dual-controlled vehicles maintained to excellent condition. Our pricing begins at 42 per hour, with discounts for block bookings and adaptable lesson packages. In addition to standard instruction, we offer specialised training such as refresher courses and motorway lessons. Our calm, supportive teaching environment encourages consistent progress and thorough preparation for test success.
We employ only DVSA Grade A and RoSPA Gold qualified instructors, ensuring that every lesson meets the highest professional standards. Both manual and automatic driving tuition is available, supported by a fleet of modern dual-controlled vehicles maintained to excellent condition. Our pricing begins at 42 per hour, with discounts for block bookings and adaptable lesson packages. In addition to standard instruction, we offer specialised training such as refresher courses and motorway lessons. Our calm, supportive teaching environment encourages consistent progress and thorough preparation for test success.
Served areas
- Torquay, Paignton, Brixham, Newton Abbot and Exeter areas
Highlights and features
- Professional, reliable and results-driven driving lessons
- Over 25 years experience delivering trusted driving tuition locally
- DVSA Grade A and RoSPA Gold qualified instructors
- Manual and automatic lessons tailored to individual learning needs
- High first-time pass rate with structured, supportive teaching approach
- Comprehensive training including intensive courses and specialist driver tuition
Payment methods
- Cash
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
Services
Our driving tuition is offered at excellent quality and competitively priced, beginning at 42 per hour. We provide discounted rates for block bookings alongside flexible lesson arrangements tailored to your availability and financial preferences. From regular weekly lessons to accelerated courses, we ensure you select an effective pathway to attain the required driving test standard promptly. 
Our trailer training service equips drivers with the skills needed to tow safely and confidently in a range of situations. Priced at 150, the session focuses on key techniques such as reversing control and proper trailer connection. With expert guidance throughout, we ensure every participant develops a clear understanding of safe and efficient trailer operation. 
We offer a comprehensive Guaranteed Pass Driving Course designed to help you achieve success in your DVSA driving test with confidence. The programme includes up to 60 hours of professional tuition, alongside a maximum of three theory and three practical test attempts. Should you not succeed initially, we provide additional lessons at no extra charge. Our instructors remain committed until you meet the required standard. 
Our intensive course offers a streamlined approach to learning, ideal for individuals seeking rapid progress. Delivered through extended daily sessions, the programme integrates hands-on driving with personalised support throughout. We carefully assess each learner to determine the appropriate duration and pace. This method enables consistent development, equipping pupils with the competence and assurance required for safe, independent driving. 
We offer professional D1 Minibus Training focused on building safe, capable, and confident drivers. Our experienced Grade A instructors guide you through each phase, from theory preparation to practical test readiness. Emphasis is placed on mastering manoeuvres, understanding vehicle checks, and developing strong on-road driving ability under varied conditions.
Reviews (11)
Abby Ward
Apr 23, 2026
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Rosa Mahon
Apr 21, 2026
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Mayaank Koyani
Mar 25, 2026
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I recently passed my driving test, and I couldnt have done it without the incredible support of my instructor, Stephen Croucher, from Top Gear Driving.
From the very beginning, Stephen was professional, patient, and extremely knowledgeable. He created a calm and supportive learning environment, which made a huge difference to my confidence behind the wheel. Every lesson was well-structured and tailored to my needs, ensuring I not only learned how to pass the test but also how to drive safely and responsibly for life.
Stephen has a great way of explaining things clearly and simply, and he always gave constructive feedback that helped me improve quickly. His encouragement and belief in my ability really pushed me to succeed, even when I doubted myself.
Top Gear Driving is an excellent company that clearly prioritises high-quality instruction and student success. The overall experience was smooth, professional, and genuinely enjoyable.
I highly recommend Stephen Croucher and Top Gear Driving to anyone looking to learn to drive or improve their skills. Thank you again for helping me achieve this milestone!
From the very beginning, Stephen was professional, patient, and extremely knowledgeable. He created a calm and supportive learning environment, which made a huge difference to my confidence behind the wheel. Every lesson was well-structured and tailored to my needs, ensuring I not only learned how to pass the test but also how to drive safely and responsibly for life.
Stephen has a great way of explaining things clearly and simply, and he always gave constructive feedback that helped me improve quickly. His encouragement and belief in my ability really pushed me to succeed, even when I doubted myself.
Top Gear Driving is an excellent company that clearly prioritises high-quality instruction and student success. The overall experience was smooth, professional, and genuinely enjoyable.
I highly recommend Stephen Croucher and Top Gear Driving to anyone looking to learn to drive or improve their skills. Thank you again for helping me achieve this milestone!
Will
Feb 12, 2026
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Clare McDowall
Nov 21, 2025
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Marc has been teaching my son who has ASD and dyspraxia, for around 15 months. From the very first lesson, Marc has demonstrated the greatest empathy and understanding of his needs, and has worked extremely hard to build a fabulous rapport with him.
Incredibly, in the space of 2 weeks, my son has passed both his theory and his practical tests, first time!
I cannot recommend Marc highly enough, he is an absolute credit to the company & we are truly grateful
Incredibly, in the space of 2 weeks, my son has passed both his theory and his practical tests, first time!
I cannot recommend Marc highly enough, he is an absolute credit to the company & we are truly grateful
Umar Maqbool
Nov 16, 2025
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Caitlin Cresswell
Apr 05, 2025
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Patryk Kopycinski
Mar 15, 2025
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Sumedha Aryaratne
Dec 03, 2024
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Kelly Green
Oct 04, 2024
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Charlotte Bretagne
Jul 05, 2021
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