Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need before starting my driving lessons or booking driving lessons with a driving instructor?

Currently in the UK you have to be 17 years of age to obtain a provisional licence to drive a car or ride a motorcycle - unless in receipt of a full disability allowance, when you can obtain a provisional licence at the age of 16 years. You must be in possession of a provisional driving licence before you will be able to drive on a public road. You can obtain a licence application form D750 from any main post office.

Can I start driving lessons before passing my theory test?

Yes, you can, and probably should, as the practical experience will help you understand the questions and answers contained in the theory test. Likewise what you study for the theory test will also be very helpful in your practical lessons.

How many driving lessons will I need?

There is no minimum or maximum amount. It will be largely dependent on your own aptitude and personal rate of learning ability. This is where taking professional training from a DSA (Driving Standards Agency) Approved Driving Instructor is the best course of action, particularly if you have little or no previous experience of driving.

How do I find a driving instructor or driving school?

From the QuickSearch box in the menu you can enter the name of an Driving Instructor / Driving school, your postcode or town and click 'Go'. For a more comprehensive and specific search click 'Detailed search'. Here you can define the specific attributes you wish your driving instructor or driving school to have.

Can I take driving lessons in my own car?

It will depend on the discretion of your Driving Instructor. Most will allow this but will probably want your first lesson to be taken in their driving school car, so as to assess your current driving ability and level you have reached.

Can I take my driving test in a vehicle fitted with an automatic gearbox?

Yes, but when you pass your practical driving test in an automatic this will be the only type of vehicle that you will be entitled to drive. Whereas if you pass your practical driving test in a vehicle which has a manual gearbox you are then entitled to drive both automatic or manual gearbox vehicles unaccompanied.

Where can I find more detailed information on the driving tests and driving licence categories?

Follow this link to the Driving Standards Agency. This link and more useful links for the Learners link can be reached via the 'Learners link' on the left-hand side of this page.