What do I need to do before I can start driving?

You must have a Provisional Licence. Application form D1and photocard application D750 are available from most post offices

The minimum age which you can legally drive a car on the public roads is 17.

If you are disabled and in receipt of mobility allowance, the minimum age is 16.

Until the day you pass the practical part of the Driving Test you are not allowed to drive on your own.

It is also worthwhile having an eyesight test to check that you meet the minimum eyesight standard for driving.

How much are lessons?

This will depend on whether you are booking a single lesson or a course of lessons. Click here to view rates

How often should I have my lessons?

This will be entirely up to you but it is recommended that you have at least one 2 hour session per week

What is the cheapest way of booking my lessons?

The cheapest method is to 'block book' your lessons. Click here to view rates

How many driving lessons will I need to take?

Driving is a skill that some people learn quicker than others. For an absolute beginner this could be up to 40 hours, there are those on the other hand that require no more than 16 hours because they perhaps have been driving for a while and need to 'brush up' on their skills before taking the test. You will be assessed at the end of each lesson and given feedback on your progress

Do I need to pass the Theory Test before I can start my driving lessons?

No. In fact it is a good idea to learn the theory whilst you are learning the practical as it can bring the subject alive making it easier to understand and remember.

What should I study to pass the Theory Test?

There are numerous books on the market. The AA Theory Test: The Official Questions and Answers for example includes all the official questions for car learner drivers from the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) databank, with answers at the back of the book. Special features include an easy-to-use self-study aid for learner drivers and questions grouped under 14 key topic headings. The book, and many others, are available from www.amazon.co.uk

Where do I take my Theory Test?

There are Theory Test centres located all over the UK run by the DSA. To find out where your nearest centre is click here

Now that there is a Theory Test, will I still be asked questions at the end of my Practical Test?

No. The Practical Test and Theoretical Test are now completely separate

Can a friend or relative teach me how to drive?

The Driving Standards Agency strongly recommends that you take lessons from an Approved Driving Instructor. If your friend or relative teaches you they must be over 21 years of age and have held a Full British Driving Licence for at least 3 years. It's worthwhile remembering too that learning with a friend or relative means you could pick up their bad habits

What happens on the day of my test?

The Practical Driving Test lasts 35 - 45 minutes and is conducted by a Driving Standards Agency Examiner.

It is conducted from your local driving test centre details of which you can find out from your instructor. First of all you are given an eyesight test to make sure you reach the minimum eyesight requirement. The examiner then assesses your ability to drive competently and safely and tests you on some of the manoeuvres you have covered in your lessons.

When I pass my test, do you provide any further courses?

Once you have passed your driving test it is recommended that you look at the 'Pass Plus' course which is designed to improve your driving skills in specific areas such as town, night and bad weather conditions. The course is 6 hours duration and is backed by insurance companies, Central Government and the Driving Standards Agency. There is no test at the end of the course and as a new driver you can get reduced premiums.