Q: What do I need to start my driving lessons?
A: You must be 17 years old or older.
You must hold a provisional driving licence and be able to read (with glasses or
contact lenses, if you wear them) a number plate from a distance of 20.5 metres.
If the number plate is the new style version (with narrower font), you must be able
to read it from 20 metres.
Q: Where can I get my provisional licence from?
A: You can
pick up an application form (known as D1) from your local post office. Once the form
has been completed and sent off your provisional licence will be sent to you. The
process normally takes between 4 to 6 weeks. However, it can sometimes take longer.
Q:
How many lessons will it take for me to pass my practical test?
A: This varies, everyone
is different! Everyone learns at different rates so it's difficult to give you a
specific number of lessons required. The Driving Standards Agency (the body that
conducts the tests) say that those who pass their practical driving test have had
(on average) 45 hours of professional training combined with 22 hours of private
practice. Learning to drive requires commitment of both time and money. Please consider
this before starting your course. Remember you are investing in your own ability
to become a safe driver.
Q: I feel really nervous about learning to drive. Will I
have to drive on busy roads straightaway?
A: No. Not if your not ready for it. I will
not put you into any situations you cannot deal with safely. We will work together
on building up your confidence first (in a nice quiet area) and then progress from
there!
Q: Can I take my practical test before taking my theory test?
A: No. You must
pass your theory test first before applying for your practical test.
Q: My Dad said
that he passed his practical driving test first time after only 7 lessons. Why will
it take me longer?
A: Road and traffic conditions have changed an awful lot over the
years. Learning to drive in today's busy road and traffic conditions is more difficult
than what it used to be. Therefore taking more time to be fully prepared for your
test and more importantly, to become a safe driver. Also, the test itself has become
more challenging.
Q: How are the driving lessons structured?
A: I am a strong believer in structured learning for positive results. All lessons start with a recap from the previous lesson. We then set the aims and objectives for the current lesson and then we go out to practice. You will receive a summary at the end of the lesson and discuss development points for the next lesson.
Q: How will I know when I'm ready for my practical driving test?
A: I will give you
relevant feedback during your training. Once you are driving at a high standard,
consistently without my help, you will then know you are well on your way. At this
stage, a mock test will be conducted and I will discuss with you the booking or rescheduling
of your test. I will not present you for your practical driving test until you are
a safe and competent driver (this is for your own safety!).
Q: What car will I take
my practical driving test in?
A: You will take your practical test in the same car
you learnt to drive in. So you will be very familiar with it!
Q: How do I pay for
my lessons?
A: You can either pay at each lesson (pay as you learn) or pay for a block
of lessons to get a discount. See the prices section for details. We accept cash
or cheque payments.
Q: Once I pass my practical driving test is there any other driving courses I can
take?
A: Yes. You may wish to further your training with Pass Plus. I also offer motorway
training and refresher courses.
Q: I passed my test many years ago and feel like I
have forgotten everything. Can you help?
A: I sure can. I provide refresher courses
to help you gain your confidence back and refresh the skills your learnt originally.
The course is structured around your needs so we can work around what you wish to
improve on.
Q: Are you a fully qualified driving instructor?
A: Yes, I have successfully passed all three qualifying exams set by the Driving Standards Agency. All fully qualified instructors must display a green badge in their window whilst out teaching for money.