SHE DID IT!
SHE DID IT!
Huge congratulations to Mona, who absolutely smashed her driving test this morning at Durham Test Centre!
Mona’s journey hasn't been easy. After nearly 80 hours with other schools, she was ready to give up, convinced she’d never crack it. But then she met ADI Andrew.
They stripped everything back to basics, built up solid routines, and just 20 hours later... PASSED with only 2 minor faults!
The examiner said it was the "best reaction to a pass" they’d seen in ages. You could literally see the weight lifting off her shoulders. This is more than just a licence; it’s a total life-changer!
Now the car hunt begins and a whole new chapter starts. Enjoy the freedom, Mona!
Ready to experience your own life-changing moment?
🌟 ZERO FAULTS IN A DOWNPOUR! 🌟#3 in 2 days!
Huge congratulations to the incredible Emma, who didn’t just pass her driving test today—she absolutely conquered it! 🚗💨
Emma’s journey is a proper "full circle" story. After an attempt a few years back, she headed off to the States to smash her PhD. 🎓 Returning home, she decided it was time to "get this thing done"—and boy, did she ever!
Despite the heavens opening and the most dreadful rainy conditions, Emma delivered a FLAWLESS drive. The examiner’s verdict? Zero faults and the easiest pass he’s ever given, even in the worst possible weather! 🌧️🙌
How did she do it? Aside from being an absolute natural, Emma used our Sunderland Loop tutorial video for inspiration, singing the song through every practice session! (Maybe that’s the secret PhD level study hack? 🎶)
As a massive Sunderland supporter and a total joy to teach, Emma has been a highlight for her instructor, Peter. You might also recognise her from our legendary Taylors Pork Pie skit—seriously, if you haven’t been to Durham to try one yet, what are you waiting for?! 🥧🏆
Emma is now on the hunt for her first car to kickstart her next chapter of travels. We’re so proud of you, Dr. Emma! We’ll hopefully see you back for PassPlus soon.
Enjoy the open road—you’ve earned it! 🔴⚪️
Zero Fault pass #2 in 2 days!
Don't let the clouds fool you—it was absolute sunshine inside the car today! 🌧️✨
A massive congratulations to Hoyee Mak for smashing her driving test on the first attempt! Even with the rainy weather, Hoyee stayed cool, calm, and collected, delivering an incredible ZERO FAULT PASS! 🏆
That makes it a "perfect game" and the second zero-fault pass in just two days for Only Automatic Driving School! The rain couldn't stop this winning streak! ☔️🚗
Originally from Hong Kong, Hoyee is a total powerhouse. When she’s not saving lives as a qualified Vet, she’s pushing people to their limits teaching spinning classes on her days off! 🐾🚴♂️ All that discipline and focus clearly paid off behind the wheel with ADI Tony.
The "L" plates are officially a thing of the past. Rain or shine, the road is yours now, Hoyee! Enjoy every mile of your new freedom! 🥂💨
*Artistic Licence *
It’s always a bit nerve-racking when the examiner gets into the car and sits next to you on test day, isn’t it? So imagine how thrilled local artist Sarah was when the test centre manager climbed into the back seat to accompany the one in the front? Gulp.
Not to worry, though, as Sarah sailed through her driving test today with zero driving faults and a glowing tribute from the examiner.
During the debriefing, the examiner told her that it was an “excellent drive” and then added “And what was particularly impressive…” as he explained how Sarah dealt with a car that dangerously overtook her on a mini roundabout. The examiner noted that Sarah had used her mirrors effectively to spot the car behind her, and was ready to slow the car down safely to avoid any potential accident. “Very impressive, indeed” he repeated.
A faultless round doesn’t happen by accident, and Sarah has spent a lot of time and effort getting ready for today’s test. She also mentioned that watching the Only Automatic driving route videos helped with the independent driving section of the test, as she was told to follow a variation of the relatively new test route, which she studied before her test.
Sarah didn’t want any old backdrop for her photo, so she chose something that always makes her smile every time we pass it on the way back to her home. She’s certainly got plenty to smile about today.
Congratulations, Sarah. ADI Ian commented that you were a delight to teach, a very interesting and funny student, and modesty personified. Stay safe, and we’ll see you on the roads.
Another Mo-mentous Pass!!
Yet another Mo-mentous occasion! Mo is on a serious roll lately—it’s like he has a secret "pass" button hidden in that car.
Check out the latest success story from the Only Automatic squad:
🚗 Another Mo-tivational Masterclass!
A massive shout-out to Jake, who didn’t just pass his test— he absolutely smashed it! Jake secured a first-time pass with a tiny 3 minors. That’s what we call Mo-mentum at its finest!
As a parts technician over at Nissan, Jake already knows his way around a vehicle, but Mo helped him put all those pieces together into one smooth driving machine. Being another fellow Sunderland fan, we’re sure there was plenty of "Ha'way the lads" chat during the lessons to keep the vibes high. 🔴⚪️
Jake joined us at Only Automatic after hearing some glowing recommendations, and he’s loved every second of the journey. From the first lesson to that final celebratory handshake, it’s been a Mo-st excellent experience.
Jake, we know you’re itching to get on the road and swap the factory floor for the open tarmac. We couldn't be happier for you!
Why Mo is the Man:
Mo-tivated: He won't stop until you've got that license.
Mo-dious: (Okay, we made that up, but he’s definitely got a rhythm for teaching!)
Mo-bile Legend: Another successful driver added to the Sunderland roads.
🚗💨 BIG CELEBRATION TIME FOR NATHAN! 🚗💨
Huge congratulations to Nathan, who smashed his driving test this morning with a FIRST-TIME PASS and just one tiny fault! 🎉🏆
This wasn't just any drive; Nathan had a very special co-pilot today. He wore his dearly departed Grandad’s lucky watch ⌚️❤️ and truly felt that extra boost of power and confidence behind the wheel. We think Grandad would be beaming with pride!
But the real drama happened on the way to the test centre. Nathan’s skills were put to the ultimate test when a toddler suddenly ran out between parked cars. 😱 Thanks to Nathan’s lightning-fast reactions and composure, he saved the situation before the test had even begun! ⚡️🛡️
The examiner was blown away, describing it as an "excellent pass." We couldn't agree more! Nathan, you showed exactly what a focused, skilled driver looks like.
Instructor Peter and the whole team at Only Automatic Driving School are incredibly proud of you. We can’t wait to see you out on the road in your own car very soon! 🛠️🚌➡️🚘
Planes, Trains & Automobiles 🚂
Let’s face it, public transport can often be troublesome, especially when the metros are running late on the day of your driving test. However, this didn’t cause any problems for Newcastle railway worker (oh, the irony) Adebayo, as he passed his test at the first attempt today, with only a single driving fault.
Despite the rainy weather, and a tricky route involving broken down vehicles in his path and numerous spiral roundabouts, Adebayo stayed calm and focused, producing an excellent drive that was commended by the examiner.
Adebayo put in hours of effort learning the routes, watching the Only Automatic Driving School Tutorial Videos, and asking questions to get himself ready for today’s test, and the effort has certainly been worth it.
Congratulations once again, Adebayo - Ian, your Instructor said you were a delight to teach, and a complete gentleman throughout the whole process.
Take care, stay safe, and I’ll see you on the roads.
Well Done Ian, 2 passes in 2 days! 😁🍾
🚨 HE’S BACK IN THE DRIVING SEAT! 🚨
A massive round of applause for Brian, our latest legend to bag a FIRST-TIME PASS! 🚗💨
As a die-hard Sunderland AFC fan, Brian knows that a good game plan is everything. To get him match-ready, we used our secret weapon: "The Only Automatic Instructor Training and Development" book. Brian found the diagrams a total game-changer, helping him visualise every turn and junction before he even hit the pedals! 📖✨
Coming into his lessons, Brian took comfort in scrolling through our Only Automatic Success Stories, which gave him the ultimate confidence that he was in safe hands with the best in the business. We’ve absolutely loved being part of his journey!
Another "W" for his incredible instructor and another happy driver on the road! 🏆
Ready to kick off your own driving journey? Whether you're in North Tyneside, Sunderland, or Durham, we’re ready for you!
✨ SHE DID IT! FROM "I DON’T KNOW" TO "I CAN DO IT!" ✨
✨ SHE DID IT! FROM "I DON’T KNOW" TO "I CAN DO IT!" ✨
A huge, bubbly shout-out to the energetic Millie, who absolutely crushed her driving test today! 🚗💨
Millie passed with just one single minor fault, proving that hard work and a positive attitude pay off. She even joked that it was the "quickest 40 minutes of her life!" ⏱️
We’ve loved watching Millie’s confidence soar. We started our journey with her favorite catchphrase—whenever asked why something happened, she’d laugh and say, "I really don’t know!" 🤷♀️
But through the lessons, that changed into a determined "I can do it! I can do it!"... and today, she proved she was right! 🏆
What’s next for Millie?
She’s so in love with the drive that she’s already planning to buy her very own Toyota Yaris, just like Peter’s teaching car! 🚗✨
Millie, the world is officially your oyster. We are so proud of you!
Could YOU be next? 🌟
Ready to swap "I don't know" for "I passed"? Whether you're nervous or excited, Only Automatic Driving School is here to get you to the finish line.
👉 Start your journey here: onlyautomatic.com
#DrivingTestSuccess #FirstTimePass #ToyotaYaris #AutomaticDriving #ConfidenceOnTheRoad #OnlyAutomatic #NewDriver #SuccessStory
A massive congratulations to Toi Phan on an incredible result today!
🚗 BIG WIN ALERT! 🚗
A massive congratulations to Toi Phan on an incredible result today! Toi absolutely smashed his driving test, passing FIRST TIME with only 2 minor driving faults! 🏆✨
Toi is a hard-working young lad who spends his time helping out at his older brother’s nail shop, but today he took some time out to secure his freedom on the road.
His instructor, Tony, couldn't be prouder, saying Toi was a total pleasure to teach and a natural behind the wheel. We have no doubt he’ll be a great addition to the roads! 🏎️💨
Ready to get your own license?
If you want to pass with confidence just like Toi, we’re here to help you get on the road in an automatic!
📅 Start your journey today:
👉 onlyautomatic.com/contact
One Born Every Minute
Congratulations and the happiest of new years go to dedicated midwife Fathia, who passed her driving test at the first attempt today with only two driving faults assisted by her brilliant Instructor Ian.
The examiner described it as a “good drive”, despite nearly grabbing defeat from the jaws of victory by parking too close to the only other car in the test centre car park, five seconds from the end of her test (top tip to learners with their test looming - don’t give your instructor a heart attack, and choose a parking bay away from other cars, if possible).
Fathia has family in Peterborough, so once she’s saved up for her new car, she plans to take her nieces out to the movies. She’s also looking forward to driving to work instead of taking the bus, or spending a small fortune on Ubers, so passing her test today means it will save her money, and give her the independence she’s worked so hard to achieve.
If you see her at a maternity ward near you over the weekend, then don’t worry, you’re in safe hands with her, as she’s calmness personified.
Well done once again, Fathia. It’s been a pleasure helping you to succeed, stay safe and I’ll see you on the roads
🎉 What a way to end the year! 🎉
Huge congratulations to Racheal, who PASSED her driving test today in Sunderland! 🚗✅
Racheal is my amazing Ghanaian student who smashed it in just 9 lessons – what a superstar! 🌟
Here’s the best bit: Racheal works in the industry, fighting hard to reduce CO2 emissions around the world… and now she’s just about to add a little to it on her travels 😄 But don’t worry – she’s already promised to trade in her Nissan Juke for an Electric or Hybrid car. 🌍⚡
What an end to 2025… 🎊
Huge congratulations to all of the Only Automatic Driving School team 🍾🥂
What will YOU do in 2026?
Isn’t it about time you joined Only Automatic Driving School and passed your test too?
👉 Start your journey here: onlyautomatic.com/contact
Good Things Come to Those Who Wait — Congrats, Uchenna! 🎉🚗
Patience truly pays off, and today Uchenna proved just that! After waiting a while for the perfect moment to show off his driving skills, he did it in spectacular style — with just three minor faults. And when the examiner finally told him he’d passed, the screech of delight Uchenna let out was so loud, I’m pretty sure I needed ear defenders! But honestly, that joyful outburst showed just how much this achievement meant to him.
Uchenna lives in Sunderland but works in Durham, which means that in the new year, he’ll have much more time for himself and his family — no more long commutes of three to four hours each day! And with his wedding next year, there’s even more reason to celebrate.
Instructor Ian summed it up perfectly when he said, "Well done, Uchenna — you were easy to teach and an absolute gentleman." We’re so proud of him and can’t wait to see him on the roads, confidently driving into this exciting new chapter of his life.
If you’re ready to start your own driving journey, whether for work, family, or just the love of the road, we’re here to help! Contact us at onlyautomatic.com/contact and let’s get you on the path to success.
Here’s to new beginnings and endless adventures! 🚗✨
Celebrating Amelia’s First-Time Pass! 🎉🚗
We’re thrilled to share the fantastic news about Amelia from Washington, who just achieved her first-time driving test pass! With only two minors, Amelia showed incredible determination and skill during her exam at Sunderland — what a superstar! 🌟
Now she’s completely free to take her two children anywhere they want to go. Once her dad helps her pick out a new car, the adventures will truly begin! 🚙💨
Instructor Kevin had nothing but praise for Amelia, saying, "Absolute pleasure to teach, very knowledgeable and enthusiastic." We’re so proud of her progress, and we know she’ll be a safe, confident driver on the road.
If you’re thinking about starting your driving journey too, don’t wait! Get in touch with us at onlyautomatic.com/contact — we’re here to help you every step of the way!
Congratulations, Amelia! Here’s to many happy miles ahead! 🥳🎉
Athletic Esther wins Gold Medal for driving🏅
Huge congratulations to the lovely Esther, who smashed her driving test FIRST TIME today at Blyth Driving Test Centre! A true team win: Instructor Tony got her started, then Instructor Mandy carried her over the finish line after Esther’s move from Sunderland to North Tyneside. To top it all off, her hubby surprised her with a beautiful new car on Tuesday—she’s absolutely buzzing to hit the road!
As a self‑employed athletics pro and proud mum to a little boy, getting that licence means more freedom, flexibility, and precious time back. We’re so proud of you, Esther—enjoy every mile!
Ready to start your journey? Book with our friendly, expert team at onlyautomatic.com/contact.
Howzat for Al! Passed his Automatic Driving Test
Congratulations to Al on passing his driving test in Durham! 🎉 Huge shoutout to his wonderful instructor Andy, whose expert guidance and support made all the difference. Al, originally from Bangladesh, showed incredible determination and worked tirelessly to achieve this success—his second attempt proved just how dedicated he is. With some hard prep and Andy’s expert coaching, Al now joins the ranks of confident drivers!
When he's not on the road, Al is a caring care worker who loves playing cricket—showing his passion both on and off the field. If you're looking to boost your driving skills and enjoy a fun, supportive learning experience, you can book lessons at onlyautomatic.com/contact. Here's to many more milestones, Al—well done! 🚗💫
Robson, first one in his family to pass their test!
Celebrate with us — Robson has passed his driving test first time! A die‑hard Sunderland fan who cheered on the Black Cats as they make a thrilling return to the Premier League, Robson even swapped shifts at work today just to sit his test — and his determination paid off. He’s now the first in his family to pass, marking a proud, life‑changing milestone.
This victory is extra special: it’s the first test pass for our new instructor Mo. After an intensive 30‑hour course tailored to Robson’s needs, Mo guided him confidently from lesson one to test day. The teamwork, focus and expert coaching made this brilliant result possible — well done Robson, and congratulations to Mo on a fantastic start to his teaching career!
Ready to get behind the wheel and write your own success story? Start your lessons today at onlyautomatic.com/contact.
Oluwafeyisayo passes at the first attempt, despite me never being able to pronounce her first name correctly!
Olu, originally from Nigeria, achieved a fantastic success in her driving test today. She passed on her very first attempt with only a single fault, demonstrating her determination and skill. As a hardworking mum, she can now enjoy taking her daughter on special trips, creating new memories together. Olu overcame nerves before the test
Demi’s Dedication Does the Deed
Congratulations to Demi on passing her driving test at the first attempt in Durham today! Demi is a dedicated and hardworking mum who truly deserves this achievement. Her determination and effort paid off, and her vibrant personality brought plenty of laughter along the way. She even had a memorable moment where she asked for a test pass photo to be taken next to a gravestone of a man buried beside his ex-wife—something we happened to visit during a driving exercise. Wishing Demi all the best as she embarks on her new journey behind the wheel!
Another one bites the dust…
Matthew has successfully passed his Automatic Driving Test on his very first attempt, following in the proud footsteps of his brother, Andrew, who also achieved the same significant milestone. Their combined hard work, determination, and dedication to learning have clearly paid off, and both brothers can now proudly hold their well-earned driving licences. As an avid supporter of Sunderland Football, Matthew is now actively on the lookout for a car that will perfectly suit his personal needs and lifestyle. His achievement is not only a moment of joy but also a significant point of pride for both him and his family, exemplifying his commitment, effort, and perseverance. There is no doubt that he is a great guy, fully ready to embrace the newfound freedom that comes with being able to drive independently.