- Apply for a provisional driving licence
To find out how to apply for a licence look at the Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency website: http://www.dvla.gov.uk (see home page for link).
- Find a driving instructor and take regular lessons
To maximise your learning it is recommended that you have at least one two hour lesson per week.
- Practice what you have learnt in your lessons
If you have the opportunity to practice driving with a friend or relative take up the opportunity as much as possible. Make sure that the other driver is over 21 years old and has held a full driving licence for at least three years. Ask your instructor to let you know when you are ready for this type of practice.
- Take your theory and hazard perception test
Study by attending a course or working through a book or CD/DVD to learn your theory. Practice the hazard perception test available on DVD. Many resources are available in book shops and on the internet. Your instructor will also be able to help you with this part of the driving syllabus and to rent out resources for your use.
You cannot book your practical driving test until you have passed this element of the driving syllabus.
- Book a practical driving test
When your instructor is satisfied that you are at the required standard they will advise you to book a driving test. This can be done on the Driving Standards Agency website: www.dsa.gov.uk (see home page for link)
- If you pass your test
Congratulations, you are now legally able to drive on the roads on your own. There is still more to learn so why not take a motorway lesson or take the Pass Plus scheme.
- Pass Plus Scheme
This is a further course of instruction that covers a number of different road situations including motorway driving. Your instructor will take you through the scheme which has to be for a minimum of six hours and issue confirmation to endorse that you have undertaken this training. This can enable you to save money on car insurance through participating companies as well as making you a safer driver.
- If you fail your test
Remember that it is not easy to drive and pass a test so do not be too disappointed if you do not pass first time. Talk through the faults you made with your instructor, take further lessons and book another test.