Facts on learning to drive, the practical test with links to other good facts aboiut becoming a driving instructor

Before you start to drive:

You must be at least 17 years of age (16 if receiving the highest rate of mobility allowance) you must hold a valid, signed provisional driving licence (follow the link DVLA on obtaining details about licences) Ensure that the car you are going to drive is properly insured for you to drive and roadworthy. We have received many questions from worried teenagers regarding rumours of the minimum driving age is going up to 18 in the UK. There are currently no such plans - Please Stop Worrying! If we hear of any facts on this subject we will let you know on this page right away.

Eyesight:

You must be able to read a number plate from 67 feet, 20.5 metres (new number plates from 2001 with narrow font from 66 feet, 20 metres). If you are learning to drive with an approved Driving Instructor he/she will check your eyesight before you start to drive. You must display L-plates (D plates can be used in Wales), which can be seen clearly from, in front and behind the car. If a learner is not driving the car, the L or D plates must be removed.

Practice:

There is no substitute for learning car control skills and how to deal with different road situations with a professional driving instructor before going out to practise privately. When you have enough confidence, your instructor will advise you what and where to practise. They will also be able to advise the person who is going to supervise you. You must be accompanied by a driver who; has held full EC/EEA licence for at least 3 years for the car that you are driving, is at least 21years of age and still holds the licence. As a provisional car licence holder you are not normally allowed to drive on the motorways.

Practice on as many different types of roads as you can, in all sorts of traffic conditions - even in the dark and on dual carriageways where the upper speed limit applies. You may be asked to drive on such roads during the test. Don't just concentrate on the exercises involved in the test.

When you practise try not to obstruct other traffic. Most drivers are tolerant of learners, but don't try their patience too much. Try not to annoy local residents; for example, don't repeatedly practise emergency stops in the same quiet residential streets, or reverse repeatedly around the same corner or parked car.

Prior to taking the practical driving test you must pass the theory & hazard perception test follow the links on the left for further information on the theory and practical tests