Within a year of passing your driving test you can apply to complete Pass Plus training. This is a very sensible idea, since statistics have shown that new drivers are more likely to be involved in an accident in the first two years after passing their test.
Pass Plus is a course to improve your driving, and save you money. You will:
There is no test!
There are 6 main Pass Plus training sessions which cover
To find out which insurers offer Pass Plus driver discounts, check www.passplus.org.uk for a list
Some local authorities offer assistance with the Pass Plus course fees, so check with your local council.
To find a Pass Plus instructor:
Well done, you have passed your driving test, and can now take to the roads alone.
The first trip you make after this is very exciting, and can be memorable.
You may want to visit friends or family to show off your latest achievement.
Wherever you decide to go, it is best to ensure that the route you take is one you are familiar with.
Plan the route, and ensure you take a map and a mobile phone with you in case of emergencies.
Let someone know where you are going, and roughly when you expect to get there.
Ensure you have enough fuel – running out will only cause you stress and maybe even a red face.
‘P’ plates – they can be very helpful as they let others know that you are a new driver, and to allow you a little more consideration than other road users.
Stay calm – even if something does go wrong, it is best to pull in somewhere safe and think about what to do rather than panic while on the road, and possibly make mistakes.
Now that you have started getting lessons, you will want to get out in the car and practice your newly found skills behind the wheel!This is a great idea, and will help you to put what you are learning into practice. However, there are some points to consider
You must have another driver with you who is over 21yrs, and has held a full driving licence for at least 3 years.
The vehicle you use must be taxed and Mot’d up to date, and you must possess insurance in case of an accident.
It is best not to carry any passengers, as they may be a distraction.
Stay Calm – If you start to feel anxious for any reason, find a safe place to stop, pull in and take time to calm down, and talk it through with your co-driver.
Stay alert – keep the radio off, and keep interesting gossip for later, as you will need to concentrate on what you are doing.
Use ‘L’ plates. They alert other road users that you are just learning, and you should get more consideration from them.
This is provided by the DSA, and is a booklet that you keep throughout your tuition, which your instructor fills in.
It can help you to monitor your progress, as well as being a lasting record of your progress while learning to drive.
There are a list of 24 Key Skills, which are covered in the practical driving test, and has 5 levels.
Your instructor can sign and date each level once it has been achieved, and once you reach level 5 fuller details can be added.
Levels
Although you can be taught to drive by a friend or relative if they are over 21 years old and have held a full licence for at least 3 years, it is highly recommended that you use an approved and registered instructor.
They are called Approved Driving Instructors (ADI’s) and are registered with the Driving Standards Agency (DSA).
They must show their green certificate of approval by the DSA on the windscreen of the tuition car.
Approved instructors will provide a high level of tuition and give you the best possible guidance on driving and safety. This in turn gives you the greatest chance of passing your driving test, so you can get on the road sooner.
Approved instructors also have to pass tough theory and driving tests, as well as having their tuition standards checked regularly.
You can ask them about all aspects of driving, including when to sit your driving test, what to read to help you pass the theory test and what is the best way to practice your driving.
There are a number of ways to find an approved driving instructor:
A good driving instructor should also be punctual, reliable, have a good reputation and have a car that is suitable for you.
The Minimum age for learning to drive in the UK is 17, and you can apply for your provisional licence two weeks before your birthday.
For those with disabilities and in receipt of mobility allowance the minimum age for learning to drive is 16.
To apply for your provisional driving licence you need to complete form D1, which is available from the Post Office or local BSM centre. You will need to enclose documents which confirm your identity, such as your passport, birth certificate, adoption certificate or travel documents from the home office.
A provisional licence allows you to learn to drive when accompanied by another driver, who must be over 21years old and have held a full British Driving Licence for at least 3 years.
There are two main parts to the driving test – the Theory Test (incorporating the Hazard Perception Test) and the Practical Driving Test.
You don’t need to pass the theory test before you start taking lessons, and it is recommended that you study for the theory test at the same time as taking lessons to consolidate what you are learning.
You cannot drive alone on the road until you have passed both the theory and practical tests.
