January can be a challenging month for motorists. The festive season has ended, the days are short, and the roads are often wet, icy, or foggy. For some drivers, these conditions make getting behind the wheel feel stressful and draining. For others, the start of a new year is the perfect opportunity to refresh their driving skills or build extra confidence.

At Surrey Driving Force, we understand the pressures of winter driving and the importance of staying safe on the road. That is why our refresher courses and Pass Plus training are ideal options for drivers this January. Whether you passed your test years ago or are a new driver keen to enhance your skills, we can help you tackle the winter driving blues with confidence.

Why Winter Can Challenge Even Experienced Drivers

The winter months bring conditions that many drivers are not fully prepared for. Some of the most common challenges include:

  • Reduced visibility: Fog, rain, and shorter daylight hours make it harder to see hazards.

  • Slippery roads: Ice and wet leaves increase stopping distances.

  • More distractions: Dark mornings and evenings can reduce concentration levels.

  • Stressful traffic: Post-Christmas commuting and unpredictable weather can heighten nerves.

Even drivers with years of experience can find themselves feeling unsettled or out of practice in these conditions. That is where refresher courses and Pass Plus training can make all the difference.

Refresher Driving Courses in Surrey

Refresher lessons are designed for anyone who already holds a licence but feels they could benefit from extra practice or updated training. At Surrey Driving Force, we tailor these sessions to the individual.

Typical reasons for booking a refresher course include:

  • Having taken a break from driving and feeling rusty.

  • Lack of confidence in busy traffic or on motorways.

  • Wanting guidance on winter driving techniques.

  • Adapting to a new vehicle, such as switching from manual to automatic.

  • Preparing for a return to regular commuting.

Our professional instructors provide a calm, supportive environment to rebuild your confidence. Even a handful of refresher lessons can transform the way you feel behind the wheel.

What is Pass Plus?

Pass Plus is a practical training course designed by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) for new drivers who have recently passed their test. It goes beyond the basics of the standard driving exam and covers situations that many learners have little or no experience with, such as:

  • Driving in bad weather (fog, rain, snow, and icy roads).

  • Motorway driving, including overtaking and joining at speed.

  • Night driving, managing glare and reduced visibility.

  • Rural roads, where hazards can be less predictable.

  • Busy town and city traffic, with greater emphasis on observation and anticipation.

Pass Plus is not a test – there is no exam at the end. Instead, it is a structured course designed to build confidence and broaden your driving experience.

How These Courses Help in Winter

Both refresher training and Pass Plus have particular advantages in January:

  • Practical winter tips: Learn how to drive safely on icy or wet roads, including controlling skids and managing longer stopping distances.

  • Improved hazard perception: Build awareness of the additional risks posed by poor visibility.

  • Stress reduction: Increase your confidence so you remain calm and in control, even in difficult conditions.

  • Long-term habits: Develop safe practices that last well beyond the winter months.

Insurance Benefits of Pass Plus

Another advantage of taking Pass Plus is that many insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who complete the course. For young or newly qualified drivers in Surrey, this can make a real difference to annual premiums.

By starting Pass Plus in January, you are not only improving your safety and skill but also saving money – a welcome bonus after the expense of Christmas.

Who Should Consider These Courses?

  • Newly qualified drivers looking to expand their skills and prepare for all conditions.

  • Parents of young drivers who want reassurance that their children are fully prepared for independent driving.

  • Drivers returning after a break who want to update their knowledge.

  • Anyone anxious about winter conditions who would benefit from additional support.

Why Choose Surrey Driving Force?

At Surrey Driving Force, we are proud to have built a reputation as one of the leading driving schools in Surrey. Our refresher and Pass Plus courses are delivered by experienced, friendly instructors who understand the needs of every driver – whether nervous, inexperienced, or simply keen to improve.

We offer:

  • Flexible lesson times, including evenings and weekends.

  • Manual and automatic training options.

  • Local knowledge of Surrey’s roads, from rural lanes to busy town centres.

  • Affordable packages and block booking discounts.

  • A supportive learning environment with no pressure or judgement.

Start 2026 with Confidence

January is the perfect month to take proactive steps towards becoming a safer, more confident driver. By booking a refresher course or enrolling in Pass Plus, you will not only overcome the winter driving blues but also set yourself up for a successful year on the road.

Contact Surrey Driving Force today on 0845 190 2012 to book your lessons or learn more about our training options. Together, we can help you drive with confidence whatever the weather brings.

Conclusion

Driving in winter does not need to be daunting. With professional guidance, the right skills, and renewed confidence, you can take on the roads safely and effectively. Surrey Driving Force’s refresher and Pass Plus courses offer the ideal solution for January, helping both new and experienced drivers prepare for the challenges of winter – and beyond.

Take control of your driving future this year and beat the winter driving blues once and for all.