Considering a Driving School? Questions to Ask
Don't Choose Your Instructor on Price Alone
The most important factor when considering the cost of lessons is not so much what you pay for them, but how many you need. Re-taking your test costs a lot more than the few pounds per lesson you might save with the cheapest driving schools.
Do They Tell You Exactly How Long a Lesson Lasts?
Some driving school prices are 'per lesson' rather than 'per hour', making them seem cheaper than they really are. At Atlas, we believe that all lessons should be 60 minutes minimum. Also, the clock shouldn't start ticking on your lesson time until you are behind the wheel.
Make Sure You'll Be Learning With an ADI
The law requires that driving schools employ Approved Driving Instructors. This is a qualification that involves ongoing assessment by the DVSA during a driving lesson (to rate the quality of teaching). Look for the ADI licence, which has to be on display.
Make Sure The Car is Appropriate
You should be in a 'dual control' vehicle. By this we mean that there are foot pedals on both sides in the front. This is important for safety while you're learning.
Theory Test
Can you get help from your instructor with the Theory Test?
Is Your Progress Being Set Down By The Instructor?
The UK driving test is an official exam and therefore it has an official syllabus and you can view this online. Your instructor should be training you to meet these standards, and have a good idea of where you are with regards to them.
How Often Are Your Driving Lessons?
It's important to practice for a minimum of one hour per week. Our experience at Atlas is that a single two-hour lesson suits most people best. If you want more then of course we'll oblige, but we should point out that we don't really endorse 'intensive' courses as the best way to learn.
Be Sure You Get a Pre-Test Lesson
The most important driving lesson you'll ever have is the one just before your Practical Test; the right instructor will make time for it and use it as a 'dry run' for the actual examination.
Find out more about Taking Your Test