NEWS FLASH - We Are Expanding
KAR welcomes Paul covering Exeter evening lessons and Jodie covering Auto lessons in the Cranbrook area.
We now have 4 auto and 6 Manual instructors.
We offer Manual and Automatic Driving lessons for new drivers along with refresher lessons for full licence holders in and around Exeter. We can assist you with your Theory test with in car tuition or in the classroom. Take a look at our Frequently Asked Questions for more information.
At KAR we don't just help you to pass the driving test we teach you how to drive safely for life. Don't take our word for it have a look at what our students have to say on our reviews page.
If you're interested in becoming a driving instructor we offer Driving Instructor Training, click here to find out more. At the end of your training there is an option to join KAR with our very reasonable Franchise package.
If you're interested in more information about any of our services please whats app or text on 07980 019474.
At KAR we don't just help you to pass the driving test we teach you how to drive safely for life. Don't take our word for it have a look at what our students have to say on our reviews page.
If you're interested in becoming a driving instructor we offer Driving Instructor Training, click here to find out more. At the end of your training there is an option to join KAR with our very reasonable Franchise package.
If you're interested in more information about any of our services please whats app or text on 07980 019474.
Driving Lessons and Driver Instructor Training
Meet The Team
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Hi, my name is Katie Russell and I am the founder of KAR Driving Instructor. I qualified as a driving instructor in 2016 after driving for 28 years. I passed my training exam 1st time and received an A Grade for my training skills, being the highest. After working for one of the larger driving schools for a year I decided to start my own school. The business has grown from strength to strength through recommendations and there are several of us who teach, myself, Helen Back, Toby Cox, Milly Russell, Dawn Cox, David Norris, Simon Parsons, Jodie Mingo, Paul Couch-Burden and Soren Parsons.
I love teaching people to drive as it is life changing for many. I have met so many great people and had a lot of fun along the way. As a company we believe in client focused coaching with an emphasis on value for money. We have many training aids in place to help you get to your end goal. |
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Hi my name is Helen Back, I live in Rockbeare and cover from Ottery St Mary and Westhill, Cranbrook, Whimple and Exeter. I trained with KAR and have completed all of the Exams work as an ADI for KAR. I have over 20 years experience supporting students in an educational setting along with having taught my daughter to drive and helped friends build confidence behind the wheel. I look forward to teaching you. I teach in a manual car.
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Hi my name is Milly Russell, I have spent the last year training to be a driving instructor with KAR and been on the road teaching Auto since November 2025 on a trainee licence. Growing up with a mother who is a driving instructor has been a great advantage as I had prior knowledge to what the job take and how rewarding it can be. I have previously worked as a Teaching Assistant at Primary schools. My latest position was in a SEND school where I had specialist training and gained a better understanding of how to help students learn using different teaching methods. I use these skills every day in the job to help my students succeed.
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Hi, my name is Dave Norris and I’m based in Stoke Canon near Exeter. After 26 years as a firefighter in Exeter, I have extensive experience of driving a wide range of vehicles, from fire engines on blue lights through to cars, lorries, buses and motorbikes.
I am currently working on a training licence teaching manual, having completed my initial instructor training with KAR, I am on track to take my final ADI test very soon. I’m passionate about driving, sharing my knowledge and experience, helping learners of all ages and abilities develop into safe, confident, and capable drivers for life. |
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Hi, my name is Toby Cox and I have recently been trained by Katie to become an Auto driving instructor and am just waiting on my final exam. I am incredibly excited to become part of the KAR team. I have over 31 years of experience in the motor industry having been a co-owner of a family run prestige car dealership, so I have a passion for vehicles and driving. I live in Alphington and I’m married to my wife Dawn - we have three children, two cats and one dog so life is busy but most importantly lots of fun! I aim to make every lesson relaxed, enjoyable, and tailored to each learner, so you can build your skills and confidence at your own pace. I look forward to helping you achieve your driving goals and enjoy the freedom that comes with getting behind the wheel!
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Hi, I’m Soren Parsons, and I’m based in the St Thomas/Alphington area. I have recently completed my training with Katie to become a manual driving instructor and I am currently preparing for my final exam. Before beginning my career in driving instruction, I studied Early Childhood Studies at university in Bristol. After graduating, I went on to work in management within the hospitality industry. Driving has always been a real passion of mine, which naturally led me towards pursuing a career as a driving instructor. Through both my university experience — where I worked in primary schools and nurseries — and my years in hospitality management, I have developed strong communication skills, patience, and the ability to adapt to different people’s needs and learning styles.
Learning to drive was something I dreamed about throughout my childhood, and passing my test was one of the most exciting and rewarding moments of my life. It gave me a real sense of independence and confidence, and I would love the opportunity to help others experience that same feeling.
Hi, my name is Dawn Cox and I live in Alphington. I began my training with KAR back in May 2025 along with my husband who teaches auto. I have 3 children and spending time out on the road helping my eldest daughter practise while she was learning with KAR, this is what inspired me to start my own journey to becoming a driving instructor.
I teach in a manual Hyundai i20. I really enjoy helping students learn to drive safely and confidently. My aim is for students to leave every lesson feeling positive and happy with the progress they have made. The best part of the job is watching my students improve with every lesson and being part of their driving journey from start to finish!
I teach in a manual Hyundai i20. I really enjoy helping students learn to drive safely and confidently. My aim is for students to leave every lesson feeling positive and happy with the progress they have made. The best part of the job is watching my students improve with every lesson and being part of their driving journey from start to finish!
Hi, my name is Simon Parsons and I have recently completed my automatic instructor training with KAR and awaiting my final test. Having been a high mileage driver for over 30 years, I am really passionate about the importance of competent driving and driving being a genuine skill for life and I would love to pass this on to others! Along with driving cars, I also ride motorcycles, drive a motorhome, cycle regularly and enjoy walking my dog, giving me a thorough understanding of the complicated interaction and hierarchy of road users. Before embarking on instructor training I was a manager and coach in the chemical industry and have a real passion for people, communication and inclusion. I look forward to helping all my clients gain this valuable life skill in a style that suits them and in an enjoyable way!
Questions & Answers
How much do you charge for a driving lesson?
We charge £45 - £50.00 per hour, or £440 - £490 when you buy 10 hours of lessons. Lessons are a minimum of 1.5 hours but usually 2 hours per week. We do not do intensive courses however, we may be able to offer you more than one lesson a week.
What areas do you cover?
Exeter, Pinhoe, West Clyst, Broadclyst, Heavitree, Alphington, St Thomas, Exwick, Cranbrook, Whimple, Rockbeare, Ottery St Mary, Exminster, Topsham and all the surrounding villages.
Do I need to take the Theory Test before I start driving lessons?
No, you can start it once you have had some experience behind the wheel however, if you have time then it is great to start before. We recommend the Driving Theory test 4 in 1 kit + hazard perception app @ £4.99. We will cover a lot of the theory whilst you are learning however if you are struggling with the theory, we offer hour long theory sessions. When you're ready to take the test go to https://www.gov.uk/book-theory-test to book it.
How long will it take for me to pass my driving test?
At KAR our goal is to ensure you are a safe driver for life so our service is tailor made for you as we all learn at different paces. A DVSA survey concluded it takes an average of 44 hours with an instructor and 22 hours with family or friends however, We have had students pass 1st time with only 35 hours paid lessons with no other practice or someone with a motorbike licence pass after only 2 lessons. We are all different and this is only a guide.
When should I book in with you?
The sooner you contact us the sooner we will be able to fit you in, so call us on 07980 019474. We have students starting most weeks so our diaries are very active.
TOP TIP: If you are about to turn 17, to avoid disappointment, we recommend that you apply for your provisional licence a couple of months before and don't forget to drop us a message.
We charge £45 - £50.00 per hour, or £440 - £490 when you buy 10 hours of lessons. Lessons are a minimum of 1.5 hours but usually 2 hours per week. We do not do intensive courses however, we may be able to offer you more than one lesson a week.
What areas do you cover?
Exeter, Pinhoe, West Clyst, Broadclyst, Heavitree, Alphington, St Thomas, Exwick, Cranbrook, Whimple, Rockbeare, Ottery St Mary, Exminster, Topsham and all the surrounding villages.
Do I need to take the Theory Test before I start driving lessons?
No, you can start it once you have had some experience behind the wheel however, if you have time then it is great to start before. We recommend the Driving Theory test 4 in 1 kit + hazard perception app @ £4.99. We will cover a lot of the theory whilst you are learning however if you are struggling with the theory, we offer hour long theory sessions. When you're ready to take the test go to https://www.gov.uk/book-theory-test to book it.
How long will it take for me to pass my driving test?
At KAR our goal is to ensure you are a safe driver for life so our service is tailor made for you as we all learn at different paces. A DVSA survey concluded it takes an average of 44 hours with an instructor and 22 hours with family or friends however, We have had students pass 1st time with only 35 hours paid lessons with no other practice or someone with a motorbike licence pass after only 2 lessons. We are all different and this is only a guide.
When should I book in with you?
The sooner you contact us the sooner we will be able to fit you in, so call us on 07980 019474. We have students starting most weeks so our diaries are very active.
TOP TIP: If you are about to turn 17, to avoid disappointment, we recommend that you apply for your provisional licence a couple of months before and don't forget to drop us a message.
New award 2026 to be announced
Winner 2024 'The Business Concept, Automotive Awards
Best Driving School & Instructor Training Business - Devon
WINNER 2 years running 2022 & 2023
Best Driving Lessons & Driving Instructor Training Provider
https://www.sme-news.co.uk/sme-news-reveals-the-2022-winners-of-the-southern-enterprise-awards/
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