Roads Ahead Driving School

1. What do I need to do before I can start driving?

You must be at least 17yrs of age and have a Provisional Driving Licence. You can apply for one quickly and easily online at www.direct.gov.uk or by completing the D1 application form available at most post offices.

2. How many driving lessons will I need to take?

Driving is a skill that some people learn quicker than others. Your instructor will monitor your progress at the end of each lesson and should be able to assess how near test standard you are. (DSA - Driving Standards Agency currently say about 45 hrs of lessons and 22hrs of private practice).

3. Can a friend or relative teach me how to drive?

The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) strongly recommends that you take lessons from an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI).

If your friend or relative teaches you they must be over 21 years of age and have held a Full British Driving Licence for at least 3 years.

With Roads Ahead Driving School you will receive tuition from Stuart a fully qualified DSA Approved Driving Instructor, and a Police Class 1 Advanced Driver.

4. Will my instructor expect me to know the basics of learning to drive?

No, don't worry! Stuart caters for all abilities, from an absolute beginner to those individuals who just need a few lessons before the practical test.

5. Does Roads Ahead Driving School provide tuition in Automatic Cars?

No, unfortunately we do not have any automatic tuition cars.

6. Does Roads Ahead Driving School run intensive courses?

Yes, but we do not, however, have a specific "off the shelf" intensive course, as each learners needs are different. Intensive can also mean anything between a week and a couple of months.
Please see prices page for further details

7. What is the cheapest way of booking my lessons?

You can cut the cost of learning to drive with Roads Ahead Driving School by taking advantage of block booking discounts. This will make the hourly price you pay cheaper, the more lessons you book.

8. Do I need to pass the Theory Test before I can start my driving lessons?

No. Some people think it is a good idea to learn the theory whilst you are learning the practical as it can bring the subject alive making it easier to understand and remember. However, no two people are the same and you must decide for yourself how you wish to go about your learning for both parts of the test.
You must pass your Theory Test though, before you are allowed to apply for your Practical Test.

9. What should I study to pass the Theory Test?

To prepare for the theory test the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) recommend that all candidates study the Highway Code, Know Your Traffic Signs and the relevant books from DSA's Driving Skills series. The resource material is available from most high street book shops and from the DSA official online bookstore.

The driving theory test has two parts, part one is a multiple choice test of 50 questions and part two is a hazard perception test of 14 video clips in which you will have to identify 15 developing hazards.

There are a number of CD-ROMs & DVDs that can be purchased from High Street stores.

10. What happens on the day of my test?

The Practical Driving Test lasts 35 - 45 minutes and is conducted by a Driving Standards Agency Examiner.

Your driving test will start with an eyesight check and some vehicle safety questions. You will then start your practical driving test which will include some specific manoeuvres.

Throughout the test your examiner will be looking for an overall safe standard of driving, including when you are carrying out the set exercises. You can make up to 15 driving faults and still pass the test (16 or more results in failure). However, if you commit one serious or dangerous fault you will fail the test. On your test, relax and try to remember what you have been taught. Also remember the importance of ECO driving.

11. When I pass my test, does Roads Ahead Driving School provide any further courses?

PASS PLUS is a training scheme for new drivers, designed by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA). It consists of six practical modules & you can take it at any time within the first 12 month of passing your test.

ADVANCED TUITION enables any driver to enhance their skills and upon completion thay will receive a certificaste which entitles them to up to 15% dicsount on their car insurance with Adrian Flux Insurance Services.

12. Does Roads Ahead Driving School provide Refresher Courses for Qualified Drivers?

Yes, depending on your requirements, there are a number of choices to help you build your confidence plus a 3hr Advanced Tuition Session, which Stuart is currently checking with Insurance Companies to see if they would offer a discount to drivers who have taken this course.