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FAQ

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FAQ2023-03-13T14:23:00+00:00
Can I just have lessons for 1 hour at a time?2018-08-22T09:46:07+00:00

We actually recommend lessons of two hours. Whilst you can have a standard 1 hour lesson, we find it more productive to have 2 hour lessons as your skills develop quicker because we don’t have to cover old ground. Also we generally find that our students pass their test in less hours, meaning the overall cost is actually cheaper.

How many lessons do I need to be ready for my test?2018-08-22T09:46:31+00:00

It’s difficult to put an exact number of hours, as everybody learns at a different rate. The national average is 45 hours of professional training, but at Surrey Driving Force, we find many of our students pass in considerably less than that, especially if you can practice privately (see below).

Can I practice between lessons?2018-08-22T09:56:33+00:00

Yes, you can also build up your experience by driving privately between lessons, when accompanied by a suitably qualified driver. This additional driving experience can help you progress quicker.

Can I learn to drive in an automatic car?2018-08-22T09:56:59+00:00

Yes we have automatic vehicles if you would prefer to learn this way. Please bear in mind though that if you pass your driving test in an automatic car, you will only be able to drive an automatic vehicle, which may be restrictive. However there are a number of reasons why people learn to drive in an automatic car, such as medical reasons or the fact that you don’t have to worry about the clutch and changing gears whilst driving, allowing you to concentrate more on the road.

What is the minimum age for driving lessons?2018-08-22T09:57:25+00:00

In the UK, the minimum age for driving on public roads is 17 and you must have a provisional driving license. You can apply for your provisional driving license 3 months before your 17th birthday (it will come into effect on your 16th birthday).

The only exception to this is if you are receiving disability living (mobility) allowance at the higher rate. In this case you can apply for your provisional driving license 3 months before your 16th birthday (it will come into effect on your 16th birthday).

To apply for your provisional driving license see below.

How do I get a provisional driving licence?2018-08-22T09:57:56+00:00

Full details about applying for the provisional driving license can be found on the DirectGov website.

What about the theory test?2018-08-22T09:58:22+00:00

Details about the theory test can also be found on the DirectGov website. You can book a theory test here.

Where is my nearest test centre?2018-08-22T09:58:50+00:00

Our teaching is focused around the Ashford, Chertsey, Guildford and Tolworth test centres.

How do I book my driving test?2018-08-22T09:59:16+00:00

You can book your driving test here.

Will you also help me prepare for the theory test?2018-08-22T09:59:43+00:00

Of course, we tend to find it helps if you have some practical lessons before taking the theory test and we can also provide you with books and DVD’s if you require. There are also many online resources available.

What is ‘show me / tell me’?2018-08-22T10:00:10+00:00

‘Show me / tell me’ questions were introduced to the driving test in 2003, but were updated in 2008. It involves answering two questions regarding vehicle safety checks. We help you prepare for the types of questions you may be asked, there are also many examples here.

How much do the theory and practical tests cost?2018-08-22T10:00:39+00:00

A list of current fees can be found here.

Can you teach driving lessons in a foreign language?2018-08-22T10:01:06+00:00

The best thing is to call us on 0845 190 2012 to discuss your requirements. We do have specialised lessons for overseas driver. Also if you need tom you can use an interpreter for a driving test, although this must be arranged by you and at your own expense.

Can I take lessons in my own car?2018-08-22T10:01:31+00:00

Yes it is possible to do this depending on your insurance policy. You would need to check that your insurance policy covers professional driving tuition prior to booking lessons. However we do recommend using our car for your lessons as the dual controls ensure maximum safety, particularly on the first few lessons.

Will I share my lesson with another learner?2018-08-22T10:01:56+00:00

No, we would never expect any of our pupils to share lessons. You are paying for our time and you shouldn’t expect anything other than a one to one lesson.

Can you have more than one examiner sat in the car on a test?2018-08-22T10:02:22+00:00

Yes very occasionally this can happen. The reason for this is that the DSA examiners are regularly checked, to ensure all testing is fair and consistent. If you do have an additional examiner sat in the back, please remember that they are actually checking the other examiner and not you, it’s nothing to worry about.

Can I have a friend / relative in the car for my lesson?2018-08-22T10:02:51+00:00

This is not possible as our insurance policy (in line with all other driving instructors) does not allow this. The only other people allowed in the car is a driving examiner or an ADI (Approved Driving Instructor).

Are there online resources to help me get ready for my test?2018-08-22T10:03:18+00:00

There are many sites which can be found via Google, but we find 2pass.co.uk and driving-test-success.com to be particularly good.

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