Need Advice?Call: 0808 00 13-2-19 Text: 077664 13-2-19 Chat/Email: Learning to DriveFor some, learning to drive might be the most nerve-wracking thing they've ever done, and for others, the best thing ever! It is illegal to drive a vehicle without an appropriate, valid licence. Once you have passed your test, your licence remains valid until you are 70 (but it can be taken away for driving offences or medical reasons). The information here gives you all the practical info you need about learning to drive. Getting startedA licence to drive one type of vehicle does not automatically allow you to drive another type of vehicle. So at what ages can you ride and drive different types of vehicles?
Learning to drive a carYou must have a provisional licence before you can start learning to drive. You can get an D1 application form for a provisional licence from your local post office or you can apply online at www.direct.gov/motoring When you have a provisional licence you must display 'L plates' whilst driving, and you must be accompanied by someone who has held a valid UK driving licence for at least 3 years and who is over 21 years old. You must not drive on a motorway until you have passed your test. Driving a motorbikeLike car drivers, motorcyclists have to take both a written theory test and a practical test to gain a full licence. Before you can learn to ride a motorcycle on public roads you must complete a Compulsory Basic Training CourseWho can teach me to drive?Once you are 17, you can have driving lessons with a driving instructor. You can also practice with another adult sitting sitting with you. The rules are:
Finding and choosing a driving instructorA friend may be able to tell you about a good driving instructor. You can also look in the Yellow Pages, you local newspaper or on the Internet. Think about:
Learning to driveYou need to be able to read a number plate from 20.5 metres (67 feet) away. (It's OK to wear glasses or contact lenses for this, as long as you wear them at all times while driving). Dress sensibly - stilettos and heavy boots or shoes aren't good for using the pedals in a car! Don't worry - some people pick up driving quickly, others take longer About the theory testIt tests your knowledge of the Highway Code. It is organised by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) at one of their centres. You can practise your driving theory test online for free at www.dsa.gov.uk/mockpaper/theoryintro.htm and you can practise the multiple choice part of the theory test at www.theory-tests.co.uk. You can also book your theory and practical tests through the DSA (Driving Standards Agency) or at www.direct.gov/motoring. The first part is made up of 35 multiple-choice questions and is carried out using a touch-screen computer. (You can do a practice before the test starts). There is a 40 minute time limit. The second part is the Hazard Perception test. You will be shown 14 video clips, lasting 1 minute each. You must click the mouse button when you see a hazard developing. The earlier you respond, the higher your score. You must pass both parts of the theory test in the same sitting. You'll be given your results before you leave the test centre. Additional needsCandidates should tell the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) when booking their theory test if they have any special requirements. The following can be arranged:
Getting ready for the theory testDo as much work as possible before the theory test:
Booking your theory testYour driving instructor will be able to tell you where the nearest Theory Test centre is, or visit the DSA website (click on 'Theory Test' ) Try and book as early as possible, as waiting lists can be long. There are various ways you can book your theory test: Application form: available from Approved Driving Instructors, theory or practical test centres or by calling 0870 010 1372. About the practical testIt's designed to see if you can drive safely and know the Highway Code. You will be tested by an examiner, not your driving instructor. The test lasts around 40 minutes, and will include a range of road and traffic conditions. You will be given directions and instructions on what to do by the examiner. Tips for the practical testMany people say it's the most nerve-wracking thing they've ever done! Nerves are normal. You can help by: Taking deep breaths - it can really help in situations when you're nervous Asking that a friend or your instructor comes along for your test. Ask about this when you book it. Taking an interpreter with you on the test if you need one. They can't be an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) and must be 16 or over. Don't worry if the examiner is quiet. They won't put you off by chatting to you more than necessary. Additional needsThe DSA website has info about driving tests for candidates with a disability, including those who are deaf and deaf without speech. (Click on 'Driving Tests' and select the 'DT1' link). Booking your practical testYour driving instructor will be able to tell you where the nearest centre is, or you can find out at www.dsa.gov.uk (click on 'Driving Tests'). Try to book as early as possible, as waiting lists can be long. When you book the test, remember to let the DSA know if you:
You can book your practical test by: Application form: these are available from Approved Driving Instructors, theory or practical test centres or you can request one by calling 0870 010 1372. Applying for your full licenseOnce you've passed both theory and practical tests, you will be eligible for a full licence. A full licence is valid until you are 70. ContactsDriver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)For lots of useful information about driving (e.g. licences, learning to drive, entitlement to drive, disqualifications) and owning a vehicle (e.g. taxing and registering a vehicle, fighting vehicle crime and advice on buying a vehicle) Driving Standards Agency (DSA)The DSA is in charge of driver testing and driving instructor examining. Includes a mock theory test. The Disabled Drivers' AssociationFor information on mobility matters, including insurance, driving assessment and vehicle adaptation |
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