Getting Started
First things first, you need a Provisional License.
Apply: https://www.gov.uk/apply-first-provisional-driving-licence
When: Earliest - 2 months before your 17th birthday
Price: £34 online (correct as of 13/06/2021)
Time scale: approx 2 weeks to come through
KEEP IT SAFE - you need it!
Studying for the Theory Test can be done as early as you like.
- The latest Highway Code, find it in most supermarkets or WHSmith, or lots of places online, £2.99 approx.
- The Official DSA Guide To Driving - The Essential Skills book, £12 approx.
- The Official DVSA Theory Test Kit app - great for mock tests and Hazard Perception videos, £4.99 available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store (correct as of 13/06/2021).
Theory Test
You must pass this before you can book your driving test. It makes sense to learn your theory questions at the beginning of your driving lessons. The sooner you learn your theory the better. It will help with your driving lessons, e.g. knowing what certain signs mean, knowing the sequence of pedestrian lights, etc.
Multiple Choice section - you must score 43 out of 50 questions.
Hazard Perception videos - you must score 44 out of 75.
Cost: £23 (correct as of 13/06/2021)
Remember to use the official DVSA website as other sites can charge you booking fees!
https://www.gov.uk/book-theory-test
Practical Test
This is just a test to check your ability to drive. The examiner will use a DL25 marking sheet and will mark all minor and serious faults that occur in approx 40 mins. You must avoid all serious incidents but are allowed to make minor mistakes. No one is perfect, not even me. You are allowed up to 15 minor faults.
It starts in a waiting room. An examiner will come out and in introduce themselves then get you to sign a form when they check your license details. Then you will be on your way to the car (with or without me - your choice). You will be asked two safety questions called "Show Me, Tell Me" questions, and one of these is whilst driving. Then you will start your test. You will drive on a variety of roads and your ability will be tested. You must carry out one reverse manoeuvre and a 20 minute section of independent driving. You will be informed at the end of the test whether you have been successful.
There is loads of information out there on the driving test. The DVSA website is one of the more accurate. There are also forums of other candidates' experiences. Get yourself familiar with the format to help relax about the unknown.
Cost: £62 (correct as of 13/06/2021)
Remember to use the official DVSA website as other sites can charge you booking fees!
https://www.gov.uk/book-driving-test
Getting Started