Starting to learn to drive

The Theory test

Comprises of 2 elements : Multiple choice questions and Hazard Perception. If you fail either element you have to retake both parts. The pass marks are 43 out of 50 for the Multiple choice questions and 44 out of 75 for Hazard Perception. The test centre is situated next door to the Marine pub in Seaside.
Both of these tests are computer based.

Preparation Required: Approx 16 hours study

more information at www.direct.gov.uk/drivingtest

Study Material:

• Highway Code
• The official driving test book
• Know your traffic signs
• The Theory test book ( entire question bank ) or  combined
  CD Rom Official Theory Test and CD Rom Hazard Perception.
• DVD’S also available

All available at www.desktopdriving.co.uk

Book your theory test at www.direct.gov.uk/bookpracticaltest

Check, change or cancel your theory test at www.direct.gov.uk/changepracticaltest

The fee for this test is £31.00 and usually there is a 2 week wait. You may take this test as many times as is necessary ( £31.00 each attempt )

 

Practical Test

3 parts
a) Eyesight test - you must be able to read a number plate from 20.5m / 67ft
b) Show me tell me - questions on the workings of the car.
c) Driving skills

DSA ( Driving Standards Agency) recommend 40 - 45 hours Professional training plus private practice.
Test costs £62.00 for weekday slots, extra for weekend and tests taken after 4.30pm ( Plus 1 hours use of the instructors car).  Full license on passing £9 if you hold non photo I.D license, free with photo license.

From October 4th 2010 a new element to the test will be introduced called Independent Driving.
This isl explained in detail at www.direct.gov.uk/motoring -click on the drop-down list and select Learning to drive or ride.

All tests can be booked at www.direct.gov.uk/bookpracticaltest

 

Private Practice

Please note that L plates must be displayed during private practice and REMOVED from the car when the pupil is not driving.

N.B. Accompanying drivers must be at least 21years old and have held a FULL license for that type of vehicle for 3 years

Study Material:

• The Official guide to accompanying L drivers      or
• Helping learners to practice the official guide

DRIVING SKILLS

SYLLABUS can be found in The official driving test book

Study Material:

• Driving the Essential skills.
• Highway code.
• Road signs.

Pass mark is 15 or less driver faults. 16 Driver faults or 1 serious or 1 Dangerous fault is a failure. ( A minimum of 10 days must elapse before a test can be retaken) The test lasts approx 40 mins. There is usually a 6-8 week wait for a test date.

All tests can  be booked at www.direct.gov.uk

AFTER PASSING your test, it is recommended that you take the Pass Plus course for experience, skills development and more knowledge. The course comprises of 6 sessions. Motorways, Night time, Dual carriageways, Rural roads, Busy town centres, and Adverse weather conditions. On completion a certificate is issued entitling you to discounts of up to £500 p.a. from 10 top car Insurance companies ( There is no test )

N.B. Your license will be revoked if you accumulate 6 penalty points during your 1st 2 years of driving ( instead of the usual 12 points in 3 years ). You will have to re apply for a PROVISIONAL license and retake both theory and practical exams.

WEB SITES
www.direct.gov.uk/motoring
www.passplus.org.uk

Publications
www.desktopdriving.co.uk
www.wholesalebooks.co.uk