Useful Information

Learning to drive can sometimes seem quite complicated, with forms to fill in before getting into a car and even more after that! This page will provide you with all the useful information and links that you require. For all information regarding the law before, during and after your test then this link to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) will provide everything that you need to know (www.direct.gov.uk) as well as the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) (www.dsa.gov.uk)

Applying for a provisional

Before you can learn to drive, you will need to apply for a provisional licence. For this, you need form D1 which is available from your local Post Office or you can order it from the DVLA. You can apply for a licence before your 17th birthday but it will not start until the day. It can take 4 weeks or longer for your licence to be approved so if you want your first lesson on your 17th birthday, get organised and apply early!

Theory Test

You do not have to have passed your theory test before starting lessons but it is advised that you understand and know the rules of the road before getting in a car. For a list of useful sources of information to help you pass your theory, see the recommended reading list below.
You can either book your theory test online by clicking here or phone 0300 200 1122.

The theory test is split into 2 sections. You have to pass both sections at the same time in order to pass your theory test. If you pass one part and fail the other you have to resit the test again. Both sections of the test are delivered on a computer but, if you have any disabilities, then these are catered for.

Multiple Choice – You will be asked 50 questions and have a time limit of 57 minutes. Each question will be accompanied by at least 4 possible answers and you have to pick the right answer(s) to the question. In order to pass, you need to get a score of 43 or above.

Hazard Perception – you will be presented by 14 short video clips of everyday driving situations. In each clip, there will be at least one potential hazard and you will score higher points the sooner you spot this. The hazard will develop over time so you have to be aware of factors that could become possible hazards in order to score highly. The highest you can score is 5 points per hazard but, as you get nearer to the hazard, then these points will decrease. There will be one hazard in the lips except for one clip which will have two. In order to pass, you need to score at least 44 points out of a possible 75.

Practical Test

Once you have passed your theory and had your driving lessons, you will be ready to take your practical test.
You can book online by clicking here or phone 0300 200 1122.

Your instructor will be able to advice you on when you are ready to book your test. Your driving test will last approximately 40 minutes. During the test, the examiner will be looking for an overall safe standard of driving. You can make 15 driving faults but any more or one serious or dangerous fault will result in a failed test.

Before the test starts, the examiner will check your licence is valid and that your eyesight meets legal requirements (you must be able to read a number plate from 20 meters). If you fail this part, then your test will not continue. After this, the examiner will ask you two questions on basic car maintenance. You will practice these with your instructor before your test.

The rest of the test involves you driving on a variety of roads, town, country and dual carriage ways. You will also be asked to carry out two reverse manoeuvres (turn in the road, reverse round a corner and reverse park) and 1 in 3 tests will also involve an emergency stop. You will finish back at the test centre, after which you will be told whether you have been successful.

What happens after the test depends on the result. If you have failed then the examiner will explain the faults that they have marked down to you. It is useful for your instructor to be at the debrief so that you can work on the weaknesses demonstrated together.