What do I need before I can take my first driving lesson?

In most cases, you must be 17 years old to legally learn to drive and already hold a provisional driving licence. You can apply for your provisional licence when you are 15 years and 9 months old ready to start driving a car once you are 17. You can apply for your provisional licence here.

Do I need to pass my theory test before I can start lessons?

No, you can begin your lessons right away and take your theory test at a later date. However, you must have passed your theory test in order to take your practical test. We can help you get test ready by providing you with access to Theory Test Pro as part of your lesson package, your instructor will give you more details when you start. We can help by booking the theory test for you or, if you prefer, you can do this yourself here.

How many lessons will I need to take?

How many lessons you need will depend on how quickly you learn. The national average for the UK is around 40-45 hours to get to test standard with some additional private practice of around 20 hours on top. Remember that this is an average though and people will take differing amounts of time to get there, depending on their learning style and any previous driving experience.

Can I learn and pass my driving test quickly?

Yes, you can learn and pass your driving test quickly by enrolling in our intensive driving course.

These courses typically offer several hours of lessons each day over a short period, often leading to a driving test within a week or two.

They are designed to help you gain the necessary skills and confidence rapidly, with focused instruction tailored to your needs.

This approach can be particularly effective if you are committed and able to dedicate time to practice between lessons.

Have a look at our intensive courses here and get in touch with any questions.

Can I use my own car to take my practical driving test?

Yes, but there are strict rules that you will need to comply with before you will be able to take your test. You can find more details here. Your test will be cancelled and you will have to pay again if your car does not meet the rules.

Can I learn to drive in an automatic car and will my license allow me to drive a manual?

You can learn to drive in an automatic car, however, If you pass your driving test in an automatic vehicle, your licence will only allow you to drive automatic cars.

You would need to pass your driving test in a manual vehicle to drive a manual car.

What do I need to bring to my driving lessons?

You must always have your provisional licence photocard with you. If you need to wear prescription glasses or contact lenses then you must always do so. It is best to drive in sensible footwear. Flat-soled shoes that are not too heavy would be ideal. High heels and sandals/slides would not be acceptable. You should always mention to your instructor if you are taking any medication, prescribed or otherwise, that may affect your driving before your lesson begins.

Am I allowed to drive on motorways as a learner driver?

As a learner driver, you are allowed to drive on motorways in the UK only if you are accompanied by an approved driving instructor who has dual controls fitted to the car.

It’s important to ensure you have the proper supervision and guidance while driving on motorways.

We offer extra Motorway driving lessons which can help you gain confidence after passing your test.

When can I book my practical driving test?

You can book your driving test once your instructor has agreed that you are test-ready. This is usually be once you are confident performing all manoeuvres and are able to make safe driving decisions without your instructor telling you what to do. We can help by booking the practical test for you or, if you prefer, you can do this yourself here.

You should always check test dates with your instructor before booking to ensure the availability of the instructor and the vehicle to use. We cannot guarantee this without an arranged booking and you may have to cancel your test.

What do I need to bring to take my practical driving test?

You will need your provisional licence, your theory test certificate and the registration paperwork for the vehicle being used for the test. If you use the instructor’s vehicle this registration information will be given to you by the instructor. Your test will be cancelled and you will not get your money back if you do not take the right things with you.

What does the driving theory test involve?

The driving theory test involves two parts:

1) a multiple-choice section with 50 questions covering road signs, traffic rules and safety, where you need at least 43 correct answers to pass.

2) a hazard perception test where you identify potential hazards in 14 video clips, requiring a score of 44 out of 75 to pass.

Both sections are taken on the same day and you must pass both to obtain your theory test certificate.

How can I prepare for the driving theory test?

To prepare for your driving theory test, study the Highway Code, use theory test apps or books for practice questions, complete online mock tests regularly and practice hazard perception clips.

On your test day, ensure you stay calm and well-rested.

If learning with us at Lets Learn School of Motoring, we can offer Theory Test Modules online via a link which we will send you, we monitor your progress and give you feedback and once we think you are ready we can book you in at the test centre.

What should I do if I fail my driving test?

If you fail your driving test, don’t be discouraged!

Here are some steps you can take:

Reflect on the Feedback

Review the feedback provided by your examiner to understand the areas where you need improvement.

Practice

Spend more time practising your driving skills, focusing particularly on the areas where you struggled during the test.

Consider Additional Lessons

You may want to book extra driving lessons with your driving instructor to build your confidence and skills.

Rebook Your Test

Once you feel ready, you can rebook your driving test. There’s usually no limit to the number of times you can retake it, but there may be a waiting period.

Stay Positive

Keep a positive mindset and remember that many people do not pass their driving test on the first attempt. Persistence is key!

Is it necessary to take the Pass Plus course after passing my test?

No, it is not necessary to take the Pass Plus course after passing your driving test. It is entirely optional.

However, completing the Pass Plus course can be beneficial as it provides additional driving experience in various conditions, which can help build confidence and skills.

Some insurance companies may also offer discounts for drivers who have completed the course.

Can I pass my driving test in the UK, can I use it in another country?

If you pass your driving test in the UK, you can generally use your UK driving licence in other countries, but the rules vary by country.

Many countries allow you to drive on a UK licence for a limited time, often up to 12 months, while others may require an International Driving Permit (IDP) for driving.

It’s essential to check the specific regulations of the country you plan to drive in, as some may have different requirements for foreign drivers.

What would I do if I was disqualified from driving and needed to resit my theory and practical test?

If you have been disqualified from driving and need to resit your theory and practical tests, first ensure your disqualification period has ended.

Then, apply for a new provisional licence if necessary.

Start to practice driving again with an instructor or experienced driver and consider mocks for your theory test until you feel you are ready to book it in, after that book your practical test when ready.

Successfully passing both tests will allow you to regain your driving privileges. We offer an Extended Test Training Course which can help you get back on the road.