Most people can start to learn to drive cars on the roads when they’re 17. You need to make sure your eyesight meets requirements!

You don’t have to start learning to drive before taking your theory test, you can take it as soon as you feel ready so consider swatting up and try passing the theory before you start – it’s a good head start to have, and you’ll have 2 years after passing to pass your practical test. The theory test is designed to ensure we all drive safely. It’s designed to help us learn about the hazards we can face and how to avoid them. Since its introduction, the hazard perception test has been shown to reduce non-low-speed accidents by an estimated 11%*
The theory test is made up of two parts, multiple choice and hazard perception. You have to pass both parts of the test in order to have passed your theory, and you need to pass your theory to take your practical.

Before you start your lessons, it’s always helpful to become familiar with the Highway Code. This will help you to get an understanding of what is to come on your driving journey. Many people book in their driving lessons at 1-2 hour slots weekly, but this will be dependent on yours and your instructor’s availability. Other young drivers choose to go for an intensive driving course, which is a concentrated period of learning to drive with an aim to passing your test at the end, it’s usually around 1 weeks’ worth of training.

If you’ve completed your theory test, you’ve done plenty of driving practice and feel confident on the roads, it’s time to book your practical driving test. Be sure to check with your instructor to make sure you’re ready, and to see their availability if you’re choosing to take the test in their car. Your test will last for around 40 minutes, during which you’ll be asked to perform a reversing manoeuvre, answer a show me question, a tell me question, and to show independent driving (either with a satnav or following road signs).