Driving Lessons in Hendon

Where we start

Complete beginners start on quiet residential roads off the main routes, shared with our Mill Hill learners. With little traffic around, you can build your confidence and car control before we introduce busier roads.

The spots that catch Hendon learners out

• Park Road onto the A41, then a quick right turn

  Near Hendon Central, examiners often ask you to turn left out of Park Road onto the busy A41, then turn right at the traffic lights very shortly after. Visibility to the right is limited and traffic is heavy. A useful tip: a car signalling left is usually turning into Park Road, because the bend is so sharp, so if you spot one early it can give you your gap. Then build your speed briskly and move into the right-hand lane straight away.

• The right turn at those lights

  You need to drive well forward into the junction to turn, and once you're there, you can't see any traffic lights, either yours or the oncoming traffic's. The only cue is the oncoming cars stopping. We'll practise waiting for that moment until you can judge it confidently.

• Apex Corner

  Some Hendon routes approach Apex Corner, where the A1 meets the A41, from the one entrance without traffic lights. You have to time your move between traffic from your right and traffic already on the roundabout, each run by its own lights, and the gap is short. Three lanes enter side by side, so the car next to you can block your view. We repeat it until it feels routine, and you'll learn there's no need to rush. Hendon's other approaches to Apex Corner are much more straightforward.

Dual carriageways, the North Circular and Brent Cross

Hendon tests involve more dual-carriageway driving than any other local centre. We introduce busy roads and junctions such as the North Circular and the Brent Cross junctions gradually, with plenty of guidance, and repeat them until you feel confident and comfortable.

What we avoid, and why

Outside your test time, we avoid the dual carriageways and other big roads at rush hour. You'd spend the lesson in heavy traffic instead of learning. If your test is booked for a busy time, we'll practise then too.