Here are some of the most commonly asked questions by new drivers, learner drivers and those thinking of begining driving lessons.

• How many lessons will I need?
  Based on information from the Driving Standards Agency (DSA), those who pass their driving test have had, on average, about 45 hours of professional training combined with 22 hours of private practice. Learners who prepare this way, with a combination of plenty of professional training and plenty of practice, do better in the test. Remember that this is an average.
• Can I start driving before my 17th Birthday?
  Although you can apply up to 3 months before your 17th birthday, you need to wait until your birthday before you can take lessons or sit your theory test.
  
  If you are receiving disability living allowance at the higher rate your provisional licence will come into effect when you are 16, but you can apply for it within three months of your 16th birthday.
• Do you do Automatics?
  No, we do not have any automatic cars at the moment.
• Do you give lessons at weekends?
  Yes.
• What will I need to bring with me for my first lesson?
  You will need both parts of your provisional driving licence. If you wear glasses then bring them. Your instructor will check that you meet the eyesight requirements before you start your first lesson, if you don’t meet the requirements then you will not be able to continue.
• Can I be picked up or dropped off somewhere other than my Home Address?
  Yes, within reason. Where greater distance/time is involved, giving prior notification to the instructor would be advantageous.
• What is the best frequency of lessons for learning?
  Especially in the early stages of learning, 2 hour sessions are advisable. But lessons are tailored to match the individual: it is what suits you.
• Do you do intensive courses?
  Yes, but remember that you need to link the course into when you can get a date for your practical test.
• Who can accompany me for private practice?
  Anyone who is over 21 and has held a full UK (or full EC/EEA) licence for over 3 years. Make sure you have taken appropriate insurance cover to allow you to drive the car.
• How will I know that I am ready to take my practical test?
  When you can drive independently (level 5) without any assistance and have mastered all the manoeuvres, then you are ready. Your instructor will carry out a mock test prior to your practical test to confirm readiness.
• What car will I use for the practical test?
  You will use the car you have learned in for the test.
• What is the average waiting time for a practical test?
  It varies depending on the test centre: in Lanarkshire, for example, it ranges between 4 and 8 weeks and is updated on a weekly basis. Your instructor will advise on when to apply.
• What does the Practical Test involve?
  After the examiner has checked your documentation, the test starts with a eyesight check, followed by two vehicle safety questions, known as ‘show me tell me’. You will then start the driving part which will last 40 minutes and includes some manouevres, two reversing and also may include a emergency stop. The examiner is looking for an overall safe standard or driving; you are allowed to make up to 15 driver faults and still pass. One serious or dangerous error and you fail.
• What Test Centre can I use?
  You can use any test centre but it is better that you are familiar with the area that you are going to sit your test in; the local test centres are Baillieston, Hamilton, Airdrie and Lanark.