The path to passing your test

Step one-Applying for your provisional licence.

You must be at least 17 and have a provisional licence to drive on public roads. You must complete driving licence application form D1 Which is available from your local post office, and send it with the current fee, original documentation confirming your identity, and a passport-sized colour photograph to DVLA.

Further information about driving licences is available on the DVLA website

Step two-Beginning your lessons

Before you start to drive you need to make sure that your vision is good enough. You must be able to read a standard UK vehicle number plate at a distance of at least 20.5 metres (67 feet). If glasses or contact lenses are needed for this, they must always be worn when driving. Once you are satisfied that you can meet the vision requirements you need to pick a driving school. This is where I come in.

Step three-The Theory Test

You can start driving lessons before you pass your theory test but you will not be able to book the practical test without passing the theory test first. The theory test is a computerised exam in two parts. If you fail either part you must take both parts again.

In the first part of the theory test you must answer 50 multiple choice questions in 57 minutes on road procedure, traffic signs and road markings etc. You must answer at least 43 out of 50 questions correctly to pass this part of the test.

In the second part your hazard perception skills are tested. In this part of the test 14 video clips of real road scenes are displayed on the computer and you have to click the mouse when you see a hazard developing. You should recieve your results within 30 minutes of taking the test.I will be able to advise you on how to book your theory test when you start your lessons.

Step four-The Driving test

The practical driving test is about 40 minutes long, during which time you will be asked to carry out two set manoeuvres. You will fail the driving test if you make more than 15 minor errors or a single serious, dangerous or potentially dangerous error. At the start of the test you will be asked two questions about vehicle safety checks. If you get one or both of these wrong, it will count as one minor error. You will be told your result at the end of the test.

Step five-Applying for your Full licence

When you pass your driving test your examiner will give you a test pass certificate.The examiner can arrange for your provisional licence to be exchanged for a full licence or you can sort this out yourself.

I can assist you with any stage of your pathway to passing your test.