Frequently Asked
Questions
Q. So how many
lessons do I need?
A.
There is no easy answer to this question. The Driving Standards
Agency have recently released figures that suggest those who pass
their driving test have had, on average, about 45 hours of
professional training, combined with 22 hours of private practice.
In reality, the number of lessons you will need will depend upon
many factor such as:
- Your natural aptitude for driving ~ The skills needed for driving are inherent in our 'make-up' to a greater or lesser extent, just as some people are better than others at languages or sport, some may have a natural aptitude for driving. It might take you longer to learn to drive than your friends or relatives, but this is nothing to be ashamed of. Indeed, the more time you have to gain experience with a good instructor, the better a driver you will probably be. You however may be a 'natural' and take many less lessons than the 'average' learner to reach the appropriate standard.
- Your age ~ Although one's interest in learning may actually increase with age, unfortunately one's ability to absorb a new skill sometimes decreases. However driving is a skill that can in time be acquired by just about everyone.
- Any other driving outside driving lessons ~ In general the more experience of driving you get, the quicker you will learn. So if you have an opportunity to drive legally with family or friends, take it. This is best delayed until you have sufficient skills to control a car with minimal assistance, and have enough knowledge and judgement to drive safely. Extra driving sessions will only work if you are accompanied by someone who is relaxed enough to let you get on with your driving with minimal assistance. For this to work you need to get a clear idea about what you should be doing from your official lessons.
Q. Why should I learn to drive with a driving school?
A. It is important to learn safe driving practice from the beginning of your driving career because bad habits are hard to break. This is where an approved driving instructor (ADI) with experience, knowledge and training to teach you properly comes in. A fully qualified approved driving instructor (ADI) must:
- have held a full driving licence for at least four years
- pass a much tougher theory test than the one learner drivers take
- pass a strict driving test
- pass a practical test on driving instruction
- keep up a high standard of instruction, the standard of tuition given by the ADI is regularly checked by a supervising examiner from DSA
- be licensed by the DSA
Q. Can I take my car theory test before my 17th birthday?
A. No. You can only take your theory test once your provisional licence becomes valid. For a car this will be your 17th birthday. You can, however book your theory test before your 17th birthday. Candidates in receipt of Disability Mobility Allowance at the higher rate may take their theory test before their 17th birthday as long as they have a valid provisional licence.
Q. What do I need before I start taking lessons ?
A. A valid licence. In most cases that will be a UK provisional licence (old or new style) or an International licence, or in some circumstances a foreign licence which entitles the holder to 12 months permitted driving in the UK. More information can be found by looking at the DVLA official website.
Q. Do I need to have passed my theory test before I have a lesson?
A. I recommend you start thinking about your theory test as soon as you start learning to drive, practical experience of driving will help with the theory aspect. I will also advise you on books to read, CD's to use, and will supply you with mock tests. You will however, need to have passed the Theory test before you can book your Practical driving test.
Q. I have lost my provisional driving licence and I have my theory/practical test soon - where can I get a replacement?
A. For any questions relating to driving licences you should contact the UK Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). Their web site and contact details are at: www.dvla.gov.uk/
Q. Can I be picked up from home / work / university ?
A. Yes of course, I may even be able to drop you off after your lesson at a different location, if pre-arranged and of course within reason!
Q. Will I be the only pupil in the car?
A. Absolutely, I believe the practice of "piggy backing" (where the instructor picks up their next client before the current lesson finishes) is totally unacceptable.
Q. When do I pay for lessons?
A. If you are paying as you go (1 lesson at a time) then you should ensure you have the funds to pay your instructor at the start of each lesson. If you are enjoying the discount gained through a block booking, then payment MUST be made prior to the first of the lessons.
Q. How do I pay for lessons?
A. I accept cash, or a cheque made payable to Top Gear Driving School. I can also provide gift vouchers, Birthday or Christmas Packs, if you are paying for someone else to learn to drive.
