What do I need before I can start driving ?

You must hold a valid UK provisional driving licence. Application form D1 is available from most post offices or alternatively you can apply on-line ( please refer to our Links page ).

The minimum age which you can legally drive a car on the public roads is 17. If you are registered disabled and in receipt of mobility allowance, the minimum age is 16.

Eyesight is very important and your instructor will check this on the first lesson. You must be able to read an old-style vehicle number plate from 20.5 metres away ( 67 feet or approximately five car lengths ) in good daylight, or a new-style number plate from 20 metres away ( 66 feet ). If you need to wear glasses or contact lenses that is fine, but you must wear them at all times while driving.

Do I need to pass the theory test before I can start driving lessons ?  

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

Why use a DSA approved driving instructor ?

It is unlikely that anyone except an approved driving instructor ( ADI ) would have the experience, knowledge, skills and training to teach you properly. Learning best practices from the start in a relaxed and safe environment ( tuition vehicle will normally have dual control pedals ) will make it easier and enjoyable. Developing wrong techniques or bad habits will prove hard to break and at worst cause unnecessary danger to yourself and other road users.

To become qualified an ADI must pass a challenging theory test, and strict tests of driving and instructional ability. Fully qualified ADIs must display a green certificate on the windscreen of the tuition vehicle while giving lessons. They are subject to regular check testing to ensure the high standards are maintained.

How many lessons am I likely to need ?

Research has shown that those who pass their driving test have had, on average, about 45 hours of professional training, combined with 22 hours of private practice. Candidates who combine professional instruction with private practice are also more successful on the test. Some people need more lessons and practice than others and your instructor will be able to give you a professional opinion taking into consideration your abilities. 

How will I know when I am ready for my test ?

You will be ready for the test when you show that you have reached Level 5 in all the key skills on your Driver’s Record. People who pass first time do so because they are well instructed and get plenty of practice. They pass because they wait until they are ready. Your instructor has the knowledge and experience to tell you when this is.

The pass rate for the practical car test is 42%. The reason for such a low success rate is because candidates are not properly prepared. You must be able to drive consistently well, with confidence and without help or guidance from your instructor. If you can’t, your not ready for the test. Waiting until you are ready will save you time, money and heartache.

What do I have to do on my practical test ?

Apart from general driving the test will include an eyesight check, vehicle safety questions and special exercises. You’ll be asked to carry out two of the following.

• Reverse round a corner. 
• Turn in the road. 
• Reverse park ( either into a parking bay or behind a car on the road ).

Where possible the route will include high speed single and dual carriageways.

You may also be asked to perform an emergency stop.

How long is the test ?

The test will last about 40 minutes.

Can anyone come with me on my test ?

You can ask for a friend or your instructor to be present during your test, but they must not interfere in any way. If necessary, you can bring an interpreter or signer along. Anyone who comes with you on your test must be 16 or over and wear a seatbelt if one is available.

Are the examiners supervised ?

Examiners are closely supervised and a senior officer may sit in on your test, but don’t worry about this. The senior officer won’t be examining you, but will be making sure the examiner is assessing you properly. They won’t interfere with the test, so just carry on as if they weren’t there.

What if I don’t understand what the examiner means ?

Listen carefully to the explanation, but ask if you aren’t sure about anything. Your examiner understands that you may be nervous and won’t mind explaining again.

How does the examiner mark my driving ?

Your examiner will assess any mistakes you make and, depending on how serious they are, record them on the driving test report form. You will fail your test if you commit a serious or dangerous fault. You will also fail if you commit more than a certain number of driving faults. At the end of the test, you will be offered an explanation of your driving test report. You might like to ask your instructor to listen while your examiner gives the explanation.

Examiners do not have a set number of people they will pass or fail. If you achieve the standard needed, you will pass your test.