Frequently asked questions
Everything learners usually ask before their first lesson.
What are the requirements to begin learning to drive?
You need to be at least 17 years old and hold a valid provisional licence.
What can I expect during my first driving lesson?
Your instructor will check your licence and your eyesight by asking you to read a number plate from about 20 metres. The first lesson is usually two hours, which gives you time to get comfortable with the car and its controls, and to cover starting, stopping and basic manoeuvres.
Can I start driving lessons before passing my theory test?
Yes, and we recommend it. Practical experience makes the theory easier to understand, and studying for the theory test makes your lessons more productive. The two reinforce each other.
How many lessons will I need?
It varies — everyone learns at their own pace. The DVSA estimates most learners need around 35 to 40 hours of tuition before they are ready for the test. If you find yourself needing more than 50, your instructor can help identify what is holding you back.
How long should each lesson be?
We have found two-hour lessons far more productive than one-hour ones. Each lesson has a briefing, a settling-in period, the main teaching, then a recap — two hours lets you cover considerably more ground. Longer sessions suit some learners, and we will advise based on how you are getting on.
Is there a cancellation fee for changing or rescheduling a lesson?
Cancellation charges apply unless you give us at least 24 hours notice before your lesson.
Do you offer theory test practice?
Yes. We provide practice sessions and mock theory tests, including hazard perception, at our facility on Coventry Road. Message us for details.
Can I take my driving test without a theory test certificate?
No. A theory test certificate is required before you can take the practical test.
Can I choose lesson times that fit around my schedule?
Tell us your preferred times when you get in touch and we will do everything we can to accommodate them. We teach seven days a week.
I can already drive a bit — do you offer refresher lessons?
Yes. We offer both refresher and advanced lessons for drivers who want to sharpen existing skills or get back on the road after a break.
Do you train driving instructors?
Yes. Our instructor training covers all three parts: the theory, your own driving ability, and your teaching. It takes around 60 hours of one-to-one training on average to reach the required standard, and you can apply for a trainee licence to gain real experience along the way.
Are automatic driving lessons a good idea?
They can be a very good idea, particularly if you have struggled with a manual car before or have a learning difficulty that makes managing the clutch and gears harder than it needs to be.
How many lessons will I need to drive an automatic?
Starting from scratch, expect up to around 40 hours of tuition in an automatic car to reach test standard.
What is the difference between manual and automatic lessons?
An automatic car has no clutch pedal and no gear stick — the car changes gear for you, so you concentrate on steering, observation and road position.
Can I get a full licence for automatic cars only?
Yes, but it only allows you to drive automatics. If you pass in a manual you can drive both.
Is an intensive course right for me?
Intensive courses suit people who want fast, focused tuition, have a deadline, or need a licence for a new job. They are not for everyone — some learners need time between lessons to absorb what they have learned.
How many hours will an intensive course take?
It depends on your experience. For a complete beginner we usually recommend around 40 hours, which can be completed in about a week.
Do you run intensive courses in automatic cars?
Yes, intensive courses are available in both manual and automatic.
Can you guarantee I will pass?
No, and be wary of anyone who does. We have one of the highest first-time pass rates in Birmingham, but nobody can guarantee a test result.
How does an intensive course work?
You can take up to six hours of tuition per day, which means a licence in under a week for some learners. We handle booking your driving test. You need to have passed your theory test before starting.