Getting Started

In order to learn how to drive, you must obtain a Provisional Driving Licence for Great Britain.  This is green in colour so that the level of licence you hold is clearly visible.  To obtain a Provisional Licence, you need to complete Form D1, (available from Post Offices).  If you meet certain requirements you may also be permitted to apply on-line.  This can be applied for up to 3 months in advance of your 17th birthday but will not actually be valid until you are 17.  However, if you are currently receiving the Higher Rate of Disability Living Allowance, you can apply at the age of 16.

You must be able to read a new style licence plate (LL11 BDT) from a distance of 20 metres or an old style licence plate (L111 BDT) from 20.5 metres.  This is equivalent to approximately 5 car lengths.  If you wear contact lenses or glasses before this can be achieved, then you must wear these for driving as well.  If in any doubt, please consult an optician.

Private Practice

It is unlikely that anyone will be able to pass a Driving Test without proper tuition from an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) but it is also accepted that those learning to drive have a far better success rate on the Practical Driving Test if they have gained additional experience through private practice and I encourage this.

If you have the opportunity to practice privately, then please let me know during a lesson and I will advise what you should practice and where.  Please ensure that the vehicle being used is roadworthy and insured for the purposes that it is being used for.   I am also happy to talk to your 'supervising driver' if they have any concerns.

From Green to Pink

Once you have passed the necessary tests, you will receive a Full Driver's Licence which is Pink in colour.  So how do you achieve this?

You must pass a Theory Test and then a Practical Driving Test and it must be done in this order so there is no time like the present to start preparing for your Theory Test.  There are no limits to the number of attempts you have at these tests but with the proper preparation, there is no reason why you can't pass both first time.  You will however need to pass the Practical Driving Test within 2 years of the successful Theory Test.