Yes, you can use your instructor’s car for your driving test. However, there are certain requirements that the car must meet:
Insurance: The car must be insured for the driving test. Most driving instructors have insurance that covers their students during the test, but it’s essential to confirm this with your instructor.
Dual Controls: The car must be fitted with dual controls, allowing the driving examiner to take control of the vehicle if necessary. Most driving school cars are equipped with dual controls.
Vehicle Condition: The car must be in good working order, with all lights, signals, brakes, and other essential components functioning properly.
Before your test, it’s advisable to check with your driving instructor to ensure that the car you’ll be using meets all the necessary requirements. If you’re using your own car, it must also meet these criteria.
While it’s common for learners to stick with the same driving instructor throughout their lessons, it’s not guaranteed. In the UK, some driving schools may assign different instructors based on availability, scheduling, or specific expertise. Additionally, your circumstances or preferences may change over time.
However, if you prefer to have continuity with the same instructor, you can discuss this with the driving school when booking your lessons. They will do their best to accommodate your request, though it may depend on the availability of the specific instructor.
It’s a good idea to communicate your preferences early on and discuss any concerns or preferences you may have regarding your driving lessons and the instructor you’ll be working with.
In the United Kingdom, you can apply for your provisional driving licence up to three months before you turn 16. However, you can start driving a car on public roads once you turn 17, and for mopeds or light quad bikes, the minimum age is 16.
Therefore, you can submit your application for a provisional driving licence online or by obtaining a D1 application form from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) at the age of 15 years and 9 months. This allows you to be ready to start driving lessons or, if you choose, start learning to drive a moped at the age of 16.
Yes, you can start taking driving lessons before you pass your theory test in the United Kingdom. In fact, it’s a common practice for learners to begin practical driving lessons while concurrently studying for the theory test.
The theory test is a separate requirement, and you must pass it before you can book and take your practical driving test. The theory test assesses your knowledge of the rules of the road, traffic signs, and general driving theory.
Starting practical lessons early allows you to gain hands-on driving experience, which can complement your theoretical knowledge and enhance your overall understanding of driving. It’s advisable to integrate both theoretical and practical learning to become a well-rounded and safe driver.
Whether you’ll drive on your first driving lesson can depend on a few factors, including the policies of the driving school or instructor and your comfort level. In many cases, the first lesson might involve basic introductions, an overview of the vehicle’s controls, and perhaps some initial instruction on driving concepts without actually getting behind the wheel.
However, some instructors may choose to let you drive during the first lesson, especially if you already have some basic knowledge or experience. It varies from instructor to instructor and from one learner to another.
It’s a good idea to discuss your expectations with your driving instructor before your first lesson so you know what to expect. They will guide you through the learning process, starting at a pace that suits your individual needs and abilities.
On your first driving lesson (whether you have driven before or not) you need to bring both parts of your provisional driving licence, your progress log (this will be posted to you prior to your first lesson) and payment for the lesson (unless already pre-paid). Please also bring along any glasses/contact lenses if you need to wear them, and sensible footwear!!
Driving Lessons can be 1 hour, 1.5 Hour or 2 Hour – it’s entirely up to you. We can even do 3 hour lessons, although these would be more suited to an Intensive Driving Course.