Automatic Lessons
Two pedals. No stalling. A modern automatic car that lets you focus on the road, not the gearbox - perfect for new learners and anyone who wants to pass quickly and safely.
Welcome to AVS Driver TrainingAutomatic Driving Lessons in Portsmouth and surrounding areas
What to expect.
A calm, supportive learning experience that puts you at the centre from your very first lesson.
What car will I learn in?
A modern automatic car - so no clutch, no stalling, and one less thing to think about while you build confidence.
Do you teach nervous learners?
Yes. We specialise in anxious students, those who have had bad experiences with previous instructors, and neurodiverse learners.
Where do you cover?
Lessons are based in Portsmouth and the surrounding areas, including Southsea, Cosham, Fratton and Havant.
Can I switch from manual?
Absolutely. Many students come to us after struggling with manual lessons. We help rebuild confidence at your pace.
What makes AVS different?
Patient, kind instruction with proper training in supportive skills. No shouting, no pressure - just steady progress and a bit of fun.
Do you train driving instructors?
Yes. We offer PDI training with calm, structured support for Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3 tests.
Practical details
Prices, places and timings.
Clear, simple information so you know exactly what to expect.
Where do we meet?
Lessons start and finish at Cosham train station, the heart of the Portsmouth test area. We meet you there and can often be flexible with start and finish locations - just let us know and we'll discuss what works best.
How long is a lesson?
Lessons are 1.5 hours long. We find this is the sweet spot - enough time to settle in, practise properly, and make real progress without losing concentration. We're happy to be flexible if another arrangement suits you better.
What does it cost?
Lessons are £45 per hour during the week and £50 per hour at weekends. A typical 1.5-hour lesson is £67.50 on weekdays and £75 at weekends. Test fees are £130, including an hour's warm-up lesson before the test and a drop back to Cosham station afterwards.
Hall of Fame
Recent passes. Real smiles.
A rolling celebration of learners who passed their test with AVS. You could be next.
About
A gentler way to learn.
Driving lessons shouldn't feel intimidating. At AVS Driver Training we take a quiet, encouraging approach - the kind of teaching that makes nervous learners feel safe enough to actually enjoy being behind the wheel.
Lessons are taught in a modern automatic car, which removes the most stressful part of learning - clutch control and gear changes - so you can focus on the road, your confidence, and the skills that actually keep you safe.
We're trained in neurodiversity and supportive skills, and adapt every lesson to the way you learn best. Whether you're autistic, have ADHD, dyslexia, anxiety, or simply find traditional teaching overwhelming - you'll be met with patience, not pressure.
If you've had a bad experience with another instructor, or felt rushed or unheard in the past, you're genuinely welcome here. This is a calm, kind, professional space where you can learn at your own pace - and have some fun along the way.
We also offer PDI training for trainee driving instructors, with supportive preparation for Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3 tests.
Lessons
Built around how you actually learn.
Switching from Manual
If you've tried manual and it just isn't clicking, you're far from alone. We specialise in helping students rebuild confidence after a difficult start, on a car that works with you.
Neurodiverse-Friendly Tuition
Predictable structure, clear language, and adjustments shaped around the learner - not the other way around - with proper training in supportive skills behind every change.
Anxious Drivers & Bad Experiences
If a previous instructor left you shaken, rushed, or embarrassed, we'll help you reset. Calm voice, no surprises, no judgement. We go at your pace, build in breaks where needed, and celebrate the small wins.
Trainee Instructor Support (PDI)
We also train Potential Driving Instructors. Supportive, structured preparation for your Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3 tests - with calm guidance that builds your confidence as an instructor, not just your knowledge.
FAQ
Questions you might have.
If you can't find the answer you're looking for, just send us a WhatsApp.
01
What car will I learn in?
A modern automatic car with dual controls. No clutch, no stalling - just one less thing to worry about while you build confidence.
02
Do you only teach automatic?
Yes, we specialise in automatic lessons. It's ideal for learners who find manual cars difficult, want to pass more quickly, or simply prefer a smoother experience.
03
I'm nervous about driving. Can you help?
Absolutely. We work with anxious learners, people who have had bad experiences with previous instructors, and students who need a calm, patient approach. We go at your pace.
04
Can you support neurodiverse learners?
Yes. We are trained in supportive skills and are experienced in adapting lessons for learners who are autistic, have ADHD, dyslexia, or other neurodivergent needs.
05
Where do you pick up from?
Lessons usually start and finish at Cosham train station, which is central to the Portsmouth test area. We can be flexible with other locations by arrangement.
06
How long is each lesson?
Lessons are 1.5 hours long. We find this is the best balance of focused practice and attention span. We can be flexible if needed.
07
How much do lessons cost?
£45 per hour on weekdays, £50 per hour at weekends. A 1.5-hour lesson is £67.50 midweek or £75 at weekends. Test day fees are £130, including a warm-up lesson and drop back to Cosham.
08
Do you train people to become driving instructors?
Yes. We offer PDI training and support trainee instructors preparing for Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3 tests.
09
What areas do you cover?
We are based in Portsmouth and cover surrounding areas including Southsea, Cosham, Fratton and Havant.
010
Do you offer weekend lessons?
Yes, weekend lessons are available. They are £50 per hour instead of £45.
Why AVS
The right instructor changes everything.
If previous lessons have left you anxious or discouraged, you're in the right place. This is a safe, kind, professional space where you can learn at your own pace - and even enjoy the journey.
Exceptionally calm
A steady, reassuring presence in the passenger seat - no shouting, no stress, just steady progress.
Genuinely kind
Mistakes are part of learning. You'll be supported, never embarrassed - and yes, we can have a laugh too.
Supportive skills trained
Qualified in supportive teaching techniques to help anxious learners and those who've had bad experiences before.
Local to Portsmouth
Routes you'll actually drive - Southsea, Cosham, Fratton, Havant and beyond.
Say hello
Get in touch.
Drop us a WhatsApp message and we'll have a relaxed chat about where you're at and what you'd like to work on.