FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How do I apply for my provisional driving licence?
You can apply for your provisional driving licence 2 months before your 17th Birthday. You must not drive on the road until you have the licence in your possesion and you must wait until your 17th birthday. You can apply for your licence from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). The application form (form D1) can be obtained from your local Post Office.
Where will my lesson start and finish?
I will normally drive to your home, and the lesson will start from there. But if there is somewhere more convenient for you, then please let me know, and providing it is within my normal area I will do my best to fit in with your request.
Can I start my lesson from school?
Yes. You can start your lesson from school and then end up at home, providing of course that both are within my normal area.
How long is each lesson?
Lessons are usually between 1 & 2 hours. It's up to you. All prices are for a full hour.
How many lessons will I need?
We are all different, so there is no easy answer to this question. The DSA say that on average it takes 45 hours of professional training to pass the driving test. In practice some people take less and some more.
I will give you the training you need, but I certainly won’t persuade you to do more if it’s not necessary. I will encourage you, where possible, to practice between lessons with an experienced family member or friend.
Will there be anyone else in the car?
No. Training is one to one, so there won’t be anyone else sitting in on your lesson.
How do I pay for my driving lessons?
Lessons must be paid for prior to the lesson by either cash or a cheque directly (if paying by cheque you must be over 18yrs of age).
Can you guarantee that I will pass my driving test first time?
No. I do have a very good success rate, and will give you the knowledge and tools to pass, but in the end it is up to you on the day!!
Can I book a driving test before I pass my theory test?
No. You must pass the theory test first.
Can I book multiple driving tests in case I fail the first one?
No. You can only book one test at a time.
Can driving schools get earlier booking dates than the general public?
No. The Driving Standards Agency does not reserve tests for driving schools.
Does the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) have a quota of passes and failures?
The DSA says it doesn't have quotas. It (DSA) says if you meet the standard then you'll pass.
Does the pass rate vary much from year to year?
DSA results show that despite the introduction of the Theory Test and the Hazard Perception Test the average pass rate hardly varies from one year to another. The pass rates at some test centres rarely change. You can ask the DSA about the pass rate at your chosen test centre.
Do I have to pass both parts of the theory test at the same time?
You do. Fail one part and you'll need to resit both parts again.
If I fail my driving test can I take another test the next day?
No. There's a cooling off period. Currently this is 10 working days. This gap is to allow for extra lessons to improve on anything that caused you to fail.
I heard that a car sharing course is proved to be the best. Is it true?
I dont think so and don't operate car sharing courses. Watching someone else drive does not teach you practical skills. "one to one" tuition is the best option.
How do I book a theory test?
You can book your theory test by calling 0300 200 1122, or at
www.directgov.uk/booktheorytest. It can be a slow process. At peak times you can re-dial many times before being connected. I recommend booking via the website. You will need to have your licence and payment card ready when you book.
How do I book a practical driving test?
Yes you can! Simply call 0300 200 1122. You will need your booking reference and theory certificate number.
What is the waiting list for Driving Tests?
At the moment, the average waiting time locally is about 8 weeks.
Is the waiting time for a Theory Test as long as the Driving Test?
No. The Theory Test is contracted out to a private company and works within the guidelines set by the Driving Standards Agency. The average waiting time locally is about a week.