Get a Provisional Licence

You must apply for and hold a valid provisional driving licence for Great Britain or Northern Ireland from the DVLA. You can drive on a provisional licence as long as you're accompanied by a driver aged of 21 who must have held (and still hold) a full licence for three years. Ensure you have adequate car insurance which covers the vehicle you practice in.

Take a Theory Test

The quickest and easiest way to book your car theory driving test is online at Directgov. The test is made up of two parts, multiple choice and the hazard perception; you'll need to pass both before you can apply for your practical driving test.

Choosing a Driving Instructor

Only Approved Driving Instructors (ADIs), and licensed instructors under training can instruct for payment in the UK. Always find out:

• How much the instructor costs. Will a discount be given for bulk bookings?
• Is the instructor a fully-qualified ADI? Check for a green, octagonal DSA badge in the front windscreen of the tuition vehicle
• What is the instructor's pass rate for learners?
• What model of car is used as the tuition vehicle?
• Check for any extras, such as software or study aids to help prepare for the theory test
• Will the instructor pick you up and drop you off at your home address, or another location convenient to you?
• Check the DSA instructor's grade? Grade 6 indicates that the instructor performs to a very high standard
• How long has the instructor been teaching learner drivers?
• Can you have a free or reduced-price initial lesson to see how you get on with the instructor?
• If you're learning to drive in your own vehicle, shop around to find the right car insurance

Your Practical Test

The driving test is straightforward and has been designed to see if you:

• can drive safely
• know The Highway Code and can demonstrate this through your driving

The eyesight test requires you to read a number plate a certain distance away.
You'll be asked two vehicle safety check questions, and be examined on your general driving and on two reversing exercises.

The reversing exercises will be chosen from:

• reversing around a corner
• turning in the road
• reverse parking
• you may also be asked to carry out an emergency stop exercise