FAQs
No you do not have to start work as soon as you qualify. However it would make sense not to leave it too long before you put your knowledge to good use to ensure you do not forget any key information and techniques that you have learnt during you training programme.
Yes. The training programme is very flexible and will fit around your work and family commitments.
To become a driving instructor you must be 21 years or above. You must have held a full driving licence for 3 years or more and have no more than six penalty points to be able to register. You must have a criminal record check completed and be a fit and proper person to be able to be added to the driving instructor register. To qualify you must pass three tests. Part one = Theory and Hazard perception. Part Two = Driving test. Part Three = Instructional Ability Test
We will provide on going support once you have qualified. There are also different motoring organisations that support continuous development for driving instructors.
You have unlimited attempts on the part one test but a maximum of three attempts on the part two and three tests. If you fail an attempt then you can re book a test. If you fail the third attempt on the part 2 or 3 tests then you cannot proceed further and you will have to re register and start the entire process again. You will have to wait a full two years from the date you passed your part one test before you can start again. The following link shows details of the qualifying process.https://www.gov.uk/browse/driving/teaching-people-to-drive
Your driving instructor can be in the car with you if you want to. This is your choice and the driving test examiner will ask you if you would like this. Your driving instructor will discuss this with you prior to the driving test to ensure the decision is of benefit to you.
You can take your driving test in any car as long as you are fully insured. In most cases the candidate uses the driving instructors car that they have been taking lessons in as this is more familiar to you.
By taking on board the feedback given to you by your driving instructor will be the best way to ensure you increase the likelihood of passing your driving test. Where necessary, make note of this feedback after each lesson so you can reflect on it. Then prior to your next lesson you can be better prepared. You can look at additional driving materials to enhance your learning of which your driving instructor can advise.
Your driving instructor will advise you when you are ready to book/take your practical driving test based on your progress level within your driving lessons. They know the standard you need to achieve to pass and this is the standard that they will assess you on.
All our driving instructor cars will have dual controls.
In most cases learning to drive an automatic car will be quicker than learning to drive a manual car but this does depend on each individual.
Yes you can take driving lessons whilst pregnant. Please take advise from your Doctor or medical professional if you have any concerns.
To pass your driving test the main costs is for your driving lesson fees. In addition to this you need to plan for the driving test fees. This link will show the current test fees applicable.
Your driving lessons are designed to teach you how to drive safely and correctly within the laws of the UK. Having a good understanding of how to deal with various junctions, situations and road networks. Various manoeuvres are also taught so they can be completed to the correct standard, including good observation, good accuracy and good control throughout. A lesson plan is followed to ensure all areas are covered.
You need to contact your driving instructor direct to cancel or change a driving lesson. Terms and conditions do apply with regards to cancellations and we ask you to provide a minimum of 48 hour notice for this.
By contacting our office by Phone, text or contact form via how website, we will understand your requirements and select the appropriate driving instructor to help you. The driving instructor will then call you direct to introduce themselves and then discuss your availability in more detail and book your driving lessons time and date to suit your needs.
Your first driving lesson will be structured around your ability and previous experience. If you have not had any experience before, then the first lesson is usually gaining basic understanding and control of the vehicle in a relatively quiet location. This will include The Cockpit Drill and Controls lessons followed by Moving off and Stopping on the left.
Driving lesson prices vary depending on location. To find out the prices for specific locations please visit our website prices page and select thte appropriate area.
Your theory test pass certificate is valid for 2 years of which you can apply for a practical test.
When you are using Apps or online programmes you can take mock tests to test your ability. If you are regularly passing these with good results, then that is a good indication that you are ready.
There are various materials that you can use to study for the theory test including books, Apps and websites. The most common approach is using Apps and online programmes. If you are taking driving lessons with Smart Drive UK then we will provide an online programme which you can use for free.
The easiest way to apply for a Theory test is to apply online. Follow this link to apply.
https://www.gov.uk/book-theory-test
To apply for your first provisional driving licence you need contact the DVSA. The easiest way is to follow the instructions online by clicking on the following link
You can start your driving lessons once you have a valid UK provisional driving Licence or a full UK licence.
