Before you start to drive you MUST firstly apply for your provisional license. You can get the application form from your local Post Office, just go in and ask for it. You can check the DSA website , section on provisional license for further information on this.

If you have an international license; you do not need to apply for a provisional license to start taking lessons. For further information about this, check out the DSA website under Foreign License Holders.

Before you can take your practical driving test, you will have to pass a theory test, to show you know the rules of the road and safety points of driving. You will have 40 minutes to complete the 35 multiple choice questions. Prepare well and you have an excellent chance of passing. The test can be booked over the phone using a credit card, where you will also be asked for your driving license number.

The Hazard Perception Test will also have to be taken at the same time as the theory test and will take about an extra 15 minutes. The object is to identify up to 15 hazards as quickly as possible from 14 video clips which tests your ability to recognize hazardous situations and anticipate problems instead of just reacting to them. However, You do not have to wait till you have passed the theory to be able to start taking driving lessons.

Many people begin with a 1 hour lesson a week, just to get in the fundamental basics, and then as their confidence grows they can progress to 2 or more hours a week.

As we all learn at a different pace; having 1 hour a week may be enough for some people but not for others - it's entirely up to you and your abilities. As a guideline the DSA suggests having around 35 - 45 hours lessons with a qualified instructor plus twenty hours private practice (if you have the use of a car) to be able to increase the chances of a first time pass. Our first time pass rate is high and on average our pupils pass with a very good test mark.