How it works

You want to drive but how?. It might look daunting at first but with a little help you’ll soon be out there experiencing the joy of motoring

Applying for your licence

First you need to apply for a provisional driving licence. This can be done either online by clicking here or apply in person or by post by filling in form D1 available from either the DVLA or the POST OFFICE.

The average processing time for your licence is about 4 weeks so if you want to be out on your 17th birthday apply in plenty of time.

The Theory Test

This is divided into two parts. Part one the multiple choice test and part two is the hazard perception test.

There are three books which are known as source material, these being, The Highway Code, Know your Traffic Signs & Driving the Essential Skills series. ( Make sure you get the most recent edition as they are revised periodically).

It’s worth taking a look at these and if possible getting hold of one of the CD rom products, it will help you to pass your Theory test. (We can loan you these at no cost to yourself if you have lesson’s with us)

You can also practice theory tests online by clicking here.

You can book your Theory test online here.

or by phone on 0300 200 1122

The Practical Test

The examiner will check your documents and details and then get you to read a number plate at a given distance. ( Your ADI will have done this prior to commencing lesson’s with you as well)

You will then go out to the car and be asked some vehicle safety questions (Show me, tell me), more information on these questions can be found here. Show Me Tell Me Test – Questions and Answers

After Show me, tell me you will do the driving part of the exam.This will last 40 minutes approx and you will be expected to complete one exercise from:

  • Reversing around a corner
  • Reverse parking
  • Bay park
  • Turning in the road
  • You may also be asked to complete an emergency stop exercise. Included in the 40 minute test is a thing called an independent drive which is designed to test your ability to drive safely whilst making decisions independently.

Your driving test will also include around 10 minutes of independent driving. It’s designed to assess your ability to drive safely while making decisions on your own, more information can be found on this here

You are allowed up to 15 minor faults but no serious ones so even if you make a couple of minor mistakes you could still pass so keep going until the end of the test no matter what.

To take your test you must take all of the following with you:

  • Your theory test pass certificate
  • Both parts of your driving licence ( Old style licence take your passport to validate your licence)
  • Your appointment letter
  • And your ability!

If you have used an ADI for training they usually supply their car for use on the test, thus ensuring that it is properly insured and licensed but you may have to pay for its use.

You can book your practical driving test online here.

Other Resources are:

DVSA Videos

Whats involved in passing your driving test