How Old Do I Need To Be Before I Can Start Learning?
You need to be 17 years old before you can take lessons on a public road with a qualified driving instructor unless you are receiving a disability living allowance or PIP. In this case you can start learning in an an adapted vehicle from 16 years old.
You can apply for a provisional licence at the gov.uk website. You need to be at least 16 years and 9 months old. You must be able to read a new style number plate (after 01/09/01) from 20 meters. The licence normally takes around a week to arrive and costs £34.
Do I need to Pass My Theory Before Learning to Drive?
No you don’t but you can’t book your practical test until you’ve passed your theory so it’s advisable that you start early, perhaps even before you even take your first lesson. You can take your theory test on your 17th birthday for example.
How Much are the Tests?
- Theory test £23
- practical driving test £62
· Can I Practice Driving in My Own Car?
· It’s not compulsory to learn with an instructor. You can learn in your own car with friends or family as long as you have the correct learner driver insurance and that the person who sits in with you meets the legal requirements.
·
· What Car Do I Take The Test in?
· If learning with an instructor then you’d use that car. Note that you still pay the instructor for their time as well as the DVSA’s £62 test fee. The car you use does not have to be dual controlled so as long as the car meets the DVSA’s legal requirements for cars that can be used on test.
·
·
How Will I Know If I’m Ready For My Test?
You
should have a driver’s
record for learner drivers from your instructor to give you an idea of
the driving syllabus. This will help you to know what you haven’t yet covered.
A good instructor usually means good communication, involving learners in
regular conversations about their eventual test.
Someone learning to drive should be able to deal and cope with challenging driving situations and scenarios independently before taking a test.
The test will look for a minimum stand of driving for 40 minutes with no serious or dangerous faults. It is not looking for a perfect driver.