FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS1. What do I need to do before I can start driving?
You
must have a Provisional Driving Licence. You can apply for one quickly and
easily online at www.direct.gov.uk or by completing the D1 application form
available at most post offices.
2. How many driving lessons will I need to take?
Driving
is a skill that some people learn faster than others. Your instructor will
monitor your progress at the end of each lesson and should be able to assess
how near test standards you are. I would recommend at least one session of 1.5
or 2 hours per week (subject to availability).
3. Can a friend or relative teach me how to drive?
The
Driving Standards Agency (DSA) strongly recommends that you take lessons from
an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI). 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.
4. Do I need to pass the Theory Test before I can start my driving
lessons?
No
some people think 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. However no two people are the same and you must decide for
yourself how you wish to go about your learning for both parts of the test. You
must pass Theory Test though, before you are allowed to apply for your
Practical test.
5. What should I study to pass the Theory Test?
To
prepare for the theory test the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) recommends that
all candidates study the Highway Code, know your traffic signs and the relevant
books from DSA Driving Skills series. The resource material is available from
most high street book shops and from the DSA official online bookstore. The
driving theory test has two parts, part one is a multiple choice test of 50,
which you must answer 43 correctly. Part two is a hazard perception test of 14
video clips in which you will have to identify 15 developing hazards.
6. What happens on the day of my test?
The
practical driving test lasts approximately 40 minutes and is conducted by a
Driving Standard Agency Examiner. Your driving test will start with an eye
sight check and some vehicle safety questions. You will then start your
practical driving test which will include some specific manoeuvres. Throughout
the test your examiner will be looking for an overall safe standard of driving.
You can make up to 15 driving faults and still pass the test (16 or more
results in failure). However, if you commit one serious or dangerous fault you
will fail the test.