WHEN CAN I START LEARNING TO DRIVE?
You need to be 17 years of age and hold a signed, valid provisional licence before you can start. Application forms (D1) are available at the Post Office or you can apply online at www.direct.gov.uk you will need to send a passport sized photograph as only photo card licences are issued by the DVLA.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE?
Everyone is different but the driving standards agency recommend approximately 45 hours professional tuition and around 20 hours of private practice with relatives or friends it is available. There is no magic formula, just plenty of guided practice until you are able to complete a route without instruction, and carry out two manoeuvres safely.

WHAT IS THE RECOMMENDED STUDY MATERIAL?
HIGHWAY CODE, this book covers rules and regulations and is essential reading for the driver. It is available in CD Rom or book format.
THE OFFICIAL DSA THEORY TEST FOR CAR DRIVERS, this covers all the questions for your theory test and also has the Highway Code. It is available in CD. Rom format also. ISBN 978-0-11-553067-8
DRIVING THE ESSENTIAL SKILLS This is an excellent theory book and gives you practical guidance and tips on your driving. ISBN 978-0-11-5528170 Order online at www.tsoshop.co.uk/dsa or alternatively order through Geoffs driving school at a discount price.

WHAT IS THE THEORY TEST? The theory test is in two parts and you must pass both parts in one sitting. It is a computer-based test with a touch screen to highlight the answers. There are 50 questions and the minimum pass mark for this part of the test is 43 out of 50. Upon completion you will then move on to the Hazard Perception part of the test. This consists of 14 real road scenes filmed from a moving vehicle. You click when you see a developing hazard and the earlier you click the higher you score (maximum 5 per hazard). The pass mark is 44 out of a maximum of 75. You can practice by using one of the training CD ROMs available or the recommended DVDs.

WHAT IS THE PRACTICAL TEST? Your practical test is taken in your instructor's car (free use for test), and lasts around 38 to 40 minutes on a route, which takes in various road and traffic conditions. It starts with an eyesight check, (you will be asked to read a number plate with glasses or contact lenses if worn), from 20.5 metres. You will then be asked two questions about your vehicle, Show me Tell me questions, and then your actual test will commence. You can have your instructor or accompanied driver sat in on your test if you want to. Your examiner is not out to trick you but just to check that you can drive to a safe competent standard throughout your test. You will have to carry out two reversing manoeuvres of the examiners choice. In order to pass you must not accumulate more than 15 minor driving faults or commit 1 serious or 1dangerous fault. If you pass you will receive a pass certificate and your full licence will be sent to you automatically if you surrender your provisional licence to your examiner. CONGRATULATIONS! You can now drive unaccompanied and also drive on motorways.

WHAT NEXT? After passing your learning should not stop there. A good way of gaining more experience is by taking a Pass-Plus course with your instructor. The course involves a minimum of six hours in-car tuition and takes in: TOWN DRIVING ALL WEATHER DRIVING NIGHT DRIVING DUAL CARRIAGEWAYS RURAL ROADS MOTORWAYS There is no test at the end of it and upon successful completion should entitle you to a discount on your insurance.