When you have passed your theory test you will then have two years in which to pass your practical test.

How will you know when you are ready?

You will be ready when you can show that you have reached Level 5 (independent) in all of the key skills on your Driver's Record. If there is a long waiting time for tests at a particular test centre then an estimate of the progress you will make over the length of time of the wait will be taken into account to give you the best estimate of when you will be ready

The national pass rate for the car test is approx. 42% - the reason for such a low success rate is because candidates are not properly prepared.

You must be able to drive consistently well with confidence and without help or guidance from your instructor. If you can't - then you are not ready.

How many lessons am I likely to need?

DSA research has shown that those who pass their driving test have had, on average, about 45 hours of professional training, combined with 22 hours of private practice. We are, of course, all different so the actual amount will depend on you.

Who books the test?

When you are reaching Level 5 on all of the key skills we will discuss suitable timescales for booking your practical test.  You, the pupil, are the best person to actually book the test when the time comes as you will know your own availabilty. When we agree on a timeframe in which to book the test I will advise you of any times where I am unavailable.

I cover the Crewe, Newcastle-under-Lyme and Whitchurch test centres.

To book your test, follow this link: www.direct.gov.uk/drivingtest

What happens on the day of the test?

Most pupils have a one hour lesson before the test - which is approx. 40 minutes long, meaning that a 2 hour booking is usually enough to get you to the test centre, have the test and back home again within the time. If you live a long distance from the test centre this may need to be extended. If you wish to only take the test with no warm up lesson on the day, this is also possible.