Can a car with manual-type gearbox without a clutch be used for the practical test?

These types of car (Renault Clio Easy, Fiat Seicento Citymatic, Saab Sensonic, Mercedes Benz A Class and others) are suitable vehicles for a test, but a test pass will restrict the holder to automatic vehicles only. A full automatic licence acts as a provisional manual licence.

Can I start driving lessons with an instructor before passing my theory test?

Yes. We recommend you take practical lessons while preparing for your theory test. The combination of practical experience with theoretical learning should help you perform better at the theory test.

Can I take my car theory test before my 17th birthday?

No. You can only take your theory test once your provisional licence becomes valid. For a car this will be your 17th birthday. You can, however book your theory test before your 17th birthday. Candidates in receipt of Disability Mobility Allowance at the higher rate may take their theory test before their 17th birthday as long as they have a valid provisional licence.

Can I use an automatic car for the driving test?

Yes. If a person passes a test in an automatic car then they are restricted to driving vehicles with automatic transmission thereafter. A full automatic licence acts as a provisional manual licence.

Do I need to take a theory test?

UK licence holders

You will need to take a theory test if you want a licence for a new category of vehicle, for example if you have a car licence and you want a motorcycle licence you will need to take a theory test. If however, you want to upgrade within a vehicle category you will not need to take a theory test, for example, if you have a full automatic car licence and you want a manual car licence you will not have to take a theory test.

Foreign licence holders

If you hold a full driving licence issued in the European Economic Area (EEA) you will not have to apply for a British driving licence. If you hold a full driving licence issued outside the EEA it may be possible to exchange it for an equivalent GB licence.

You can contact the DVLA to find out if you can exchange your foreign licence. If you cannot exchange your foreign licence you will have to apply for a provisional licence and take a theory and practical test.

Who can sign a photograph to be used as identity on a driving test?

A bank official, a certified motorcycle instructor, a commissioned officer in her Majestyi-s Forces, an established civil servant, an ADI, a local authority councillor, a Justice of the Peace, a doctor, a Member of Parliament, a minister of religion, a police officer, a solicitor, a barrister or a teacher.

The number of lessons you need can depend on:

how quickly you learn

how often you are taught

the length of your lessons

the amount of practice you get

Your instructor will monitor your progress on the official syllabus and advise you when you””””re ready to apply for your test.

What will my examiner want from me?

Your examiner will want you to drive safely and competently in various road and traffic conditions. The examiner will give you clear directions in good time, and will ask you to carry out set exercises.

Who Can Teach Me to Drive a Car?

An accompanying driver must

have held a full EC/EEA driving licence for at least three years for the category of vehicle being driven

be at least 21 years of age.

The car you intend to use must be

insured for the learner

fitted with L plates (D plates in Wales) to both the front and rear of the car

in a safe and roadworthy condition

How many lessons must I have before I can sit my practical test?

There is no set number of driving lessons you must have before sitting your practical test. However, those who pass their driving test have had, on average, about 45 hours of professional training, combined with 22 hours of private practice. Candidates who combine professional instruction with private practice are also more successful on the test.

What if I can’t find my driving licence and my car theory test is due?

You need to obtain a Certificate of Entitlement to Drive (D441) from either a local vehicle Registration Office or direct from the DVLA. This can be sent to your home address or faxed to the theory test centre if time is short. A fee of £5-00 is payable to DVLA for this service. Additional photographic identification is required if a D441 is presented.

How do I apply for a Driving test & how much does it cost

You can by phone on 0870 0101372. You will need

your theory test pass certificate number, where applicable

your driver number shown on your licence

your personal details (name, address, day / evening telephone numbers)

driving instructors code number – this ensures that they do not book two tests for him at the same time.

your preferred date/ unacceptable days or periods

any disability or special circumstances

your credit / debit card number and its expiry date (and issue number, when using Switch)

Please note that if you wish to cancel your practical test appointment, you must give us at least ten clear working days notice, not counting the day DSA received your request and the day of the test. If you don””””t give enough notice you will lose your fee.

Saturday and weekday evening tests are available at some driving test centres. The fee for these are higher than for a driving test during normal working hours on weekdays. Evening tests are available during the summer months only

To see the cost of a Driving test

How do I know when I am ready for my driving test?

If you can drive and control your car safely and competently, with due care and anticipation of other road users, weather and traffic conditions and can competently complete all of the manoeuvres then, and only then are you ready to pass your driving test.

You must take advice from your instructor as to when you are ready – too soon and it can be a costly and confidence shattering.

However enthusiastic and keen you are please bear in mind that your driving test will be the first occasion when you are let loose on your own – if the examiner intervenes then the test is automatically terminated. Your Driving Instructor therefore will have to assess how safe you are and also how safe his car will be in your hands. So please do not go off and book a test before he advises that your ready – we do not like to have to refuse the use of our car for test

How do I know my instructor is fully qualified?

A driving instructor must display his or her Approved Driving Instructors badge in the windscreen of the vehicle. A green badge shows that they are fully qualified; a pink badge means that they are still training.

Will my instructor smoke during my lesson?

No. Our Code of Conduct does not permit instructors to smoke during your lesson.

Will I have to share my lesson or pick up the next pupil during my instruction?

No, it””””s against our Code of Conduct for an instructor to pick up another pupil in your lesson (known as ””””piggy backing””””). You will receive personal, one-to-one instruction.

Will I get a full hour of tuition?

Yes, your instructor will pick you up at the time you have arranged and you will have a full hour of one-to-one tuition.

Safety questions

Vehicle Safety Questions

At the start of the test, the examiner will ask you TWO simple questions on the safety checks you should make to your car BEFORE starting a journey.

You will need to show or tell the examiner what you would do in response to the questions. You may need to open the bonnet.

Example one

1. Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine oil level and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil.

Identify dipstick / oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum/maximum markers.

2. Show me / explain how you would check that the power assisted steering is working before starting a journey.

If the steering becomes heavy the system may not be working properly. Before starting a journey two simple checks can be made. Gentle pressure on the steering wheel, maintained while the engine is started, should result in a slight but noticeable movement as the system begins to operate.

Alternatively turning the steering wheel just after moving off will give an immediate indication that the power assistance is functioning.

Example two

1. Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine coolant level and tell me how you would check that the engine has the correct level.

Identify high/low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.

2. Show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear.

Demonstrate by applying parking brake that when it is fully applied it secures itself, and is not at the end of the working travel.

Example three

1. Identify where the windscreen washer reservoir is and tell me how you would check the windscreen washer level.

Identify reservoir and explain how to check level.

2. Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off road only).

Check is carried out by using control (turn on ignition if necessary).

Example four

1. Open the bonnet, identify where the brake fluid reservoir is and tell me how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid.

Identify reservoir, check level against high/low markings.

2. Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working.

Applying the indicators or hazard warning switch and check functioning of all indicators.

Example five

1. Tell me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car.

Operate brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors, etc, or ask someone to help.

2. Show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear.

Demonstrate by applying parking brake that when it is fully applied it secures itself, and is not at the end of the working travel.

Example six

1. Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey.

Brakes should not feel spongy or slack. Brakes should be tested as you set off. Vehicle should not pull to one side.

2. Show me how you would check that the headlights & tail lights are working.

Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), walk round vehicle.

Example seven

1. Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked.

Manufacturer””””s guide, use a reliable pressure gauge, check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold, don””””t forget spare tyre, remember to refit valve caps.

2. Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working.

Applying the indicators or hazard warning switch and check functioning of all indicators.

Example eight

1. Tell me how you would check the tyres to ensure that they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road.

No cuts and bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central ¾ of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.

2. Show me how you would check that the headlights < tail lights are working.

Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), walk round vehicle.

Example nine

1. Tell me how you would check the tyres to ensure that they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road.

To cuts and bulges, 1.6mm of tread depth across the central ¾ of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference.

2. Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off road only).

Check is carried out by using control (turn on ignition if necessary).

Example ten

1. Open the bonnet, identify where the brake fluid reservoir is and tell me how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid.

Identify reservoir, check level against high/low markings.

2. Show me / explain how you would check that the power assisted steering is working before starting a journey.

If the steering becomes heavy the system may not be working properly. Before starting a journey two simple checks can be made. Gentle pressure on the steering wheel, maintained while the engine is started, should result in a slight but noticeable movement as the system begins to operate.

Alternatively turning the steering wheel just after moving off will give an immediate indication that the power assistance is functioning.

Example eleven

1. Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine oil level and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil.

Identify dipstick / oil level indicator, describe check of oil level against the minimum/maximum marker.

2. Show me how you would check that the headlights & tail lights are working.

Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), walk round vehicle.

Example twelve

1. Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine coolant level and tell me how you would check that the engine has the correct level.

Identify high/low level markings on header tank where fitted or radiator filler cap, and describe how to top up to correct level.

2. Show me how you would check that the headlights & tail lights are working.

Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), walk round vehicle.

FastTrack

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Code Of Practice For Approved Driving Instructors

The DSA and the driving instruction industry place great emphasis on professional standards and business ethics. The code of practice has been agreed between DSA and the main bodies representing ADIs; it is a framework within which all instructors should operate.

The code leaflet can be obtained from any theory test and driving test centres. Your Driving Instructor should be able to obtain a leaflet for you. It is hoped that ALL Driving Instructors will formally agree to adhere to the terms of the Code.

Phone 0115 901 2500 for an information leaflet.

What does this sign mean?

Personal Conduct

The instructor will at all times behave in a professional manner towards clients

Clients will be treated with respect and consideration.

The instructor will try to avoid physical contact with a client except in an emergency or in the normal course of greeting

Whilst reserving the right to decide against giving tuition, the instructor will not act in any way which contravenes legislation on discrimination.

Business Dealings

The instructor will safeguard and account for any monies paid in advance by the client in respect of driving lessons, test fees or for any other purpose and will make the details available to the client on request.

The instructor on or before the first lesson should provide clients with a written copy of his/her terms of business to include:

– legal identity of the school/instructor with full address and telephone number at which the instructor or his/her representative can be contacted

– the price and duration of lessons

– the price and conditions for use of a driving school car for the practical driving test.

– the terms under which cancellation by either party may take place

– procedure for complaints.

The instructor should check a client””””s entitlement to drive the vehicle and his or her ability to read a number plate at the statutory distance on the first lesson. When presenting a client for the practical driving test the instructor should ensure that the client has all the necessary documentation to enable the client to take the test and that the vehicle is roadworthy.

Instructors will advise clients when to apply for their theory and practical driving tests, taking into account local waiting times and forecast of clients”””” potential for achieving the driving test pass standard. The instructor will not cancel or re-arrange a driving test without the client””””s agreement. In the event of the instructor””””s decision to withhold the use of the school car for the driving test, sufficient notice should be given to the client to avoid loss of the DSA test fee.

The instructor should at all times, to the best of his or her ability, endeavour to teach the client correct driving skills according to DSA””””s recommended syllabus.

Advertising

The advertising of driving tuition shall be honest; claims made shall be capable of verification and comply with codes of practice set down by the Advertising Standards Authority.

Advertising that refers to clients”””” pass rates should not be open to misinterpretation and the basis on which the calculation is made should be made clear.

Conciliation

Complaints by clients should be made in the first instance to the driving instructor/driving school/ contractor following the complaints procedure issued.

Failing agreement or settlement of a dispute, reference may be made to the DSA””””s Registrar of Approved Driving Instructors who will consider the matter and advise accordingly.

Should the Registrar not be able to settle the dispute he or she may set up a panel , with representatives from the ADI industry, to consider the matter further or advise that the matter should be referred to the courts or other statutory body to be determined.

Instructor

Mr. Kam Chau is a fully qualified Driving Standards Agency Approved Driving Instructor (Car) who has helped hundreds of people get their full driving licences.

Originally teaching through leading motoring schools he started his own driving school in 2004 because he wanted to provide a better service and give better value for money to his pupils.