What To Bear in Mind When Checking Out Driving Schools
Price per Lesson: Not the Best Way to Look at It
Instead, think about the total cost to you of being ready to pass the Practical Test. A re-take will cost you money (test fees are currently over £60) and time, plus the damage to your confidence.
How Many Minutes Will Your Lesson Take?
Always look for prices that quote time in minutes or hours rather than 'per lesson' (unless the lesson length is also clearly stated of course). Furthermore, be sure that your 'lesson time' isn't shared with other pupils.
ADIs: What To Look For
A palm-sized 'badge' in the car windscreen which bears the official qualification Approved Driving Instructor and which has an expiry date. ADIs have to retain their licence to teach through their own periodical practical examination by the DVSA, which takes place during a lesson with a real pupil.
Does The Car Have Extra Foot Pedals?
They'll be on the passenger side in the front. These mean that the teacher can slow or stop the car for safety reasons, or help during gear changes.
Theory Test
Can you approach your instructor for effective study methods for your Theory Test?
Are Proper Records Being Kept?
It's important that your successes are being noted, as well as areas where you need more work - all with an awareness of where this puts you with regard to the official standards as set out in the DVSA car / light van syllabus.
How Much Time Separates Your Lessons?
As a rule, you should accrue driving experience at a rate of no less than one hour every seven days. Our preference is for pupils to have one weekly lesson of two hours, as we find most people learn best like this.
The One Lesson You Really Must Have
If there's one lesson you simply can't do without, it's the pre-test one. It's the best way to banish nerves, and the best time to practice all the things you could be asked to do by the examiner. Be sure that your driving school makes time for it.
Find out more about Taking Your Test