Learning to drive can be one of the most difficult tests you have to take in your lifetime. This article gives you a guide as to what to expect and look out for.

Firstly you need to find a good quality instructor, all instructor have to be registered with the DSA and will have a green badge to show they have passed the qualifying tests, with this they are graded and all instructors have to be grade 4, 5 or 6. The higher the number the better they performed on test with the examiner.

Once you have chosen an instructor you will then have to revise for your first test which is the theory test. The current theory test is split into two parts, the first is a multiple choice section of questions. There are 50 in total on the test and you will have to answer at least 43 to pass this section of the test. The next part is the hazard perception which will present you with 14 video clips each with a developing hazard to identify, on this section you will have to score a minimum of 44 out of 75. On the theory test you must pass both sections at the same time otherwise it will be recorded as a fail and you will have to re-sit the test again.

Once you have passed the certificate will last for 2 years giving you time to practice with your instructor in order to take the practical test in that time. Generally students will require approx 45hrs lessons but it is advisable where possible to mix in some private practice to help boost confidence and to give more experience before taking your test. You instructor will guide you through on your lessons and advise when you are ready to take the test and booking this should be done reasonably early as waiting times can be as long as 12 weeks at peak time in certain areas.

The current driving test now includes an eyesight test in which you will have to read a number plate at 20.5 metres, after this the examiner will move on to the show me/tell me section of the test. In this you will be asked two question which relate to the safety aspect of the car and plus how to check oil, lights, tyres and brakes. Although you can’t fail your driving test on this section you can pick up a minor fault mark if you answer this section incorrectly.

The next part then will be the actual test, this will last approx 40 minutes and take you round a set route with a variety of road type and traffic conditions. You will be expected to perform up to 2 manoeuvres which could include parking plus you may be asked to perform an emergency stop and/or hill start. On the test there will also be a 10 minute section called the independent driving part where the examiner will stop you by the side of the road and ask you to follow direction signs for a particular direction, to help there may also be a picture of the expected route.

At the end of the test the examiner will give you the result and then ask if you would like a debrief to run through any points that need attention. If you pass you will be handed a blue pass certificate which will act as your driving licence until your licence arrives in the post, otherwise you will have to re-book for another test which your instructor will be able to advise you on and so long as you pass the test within 2 years of passing the theory test you will only have to re-sit the practical test when ready.

James Cornwell is a driving instructor who has been teaching for a number of years and now helps pupils with their theory test by running an online theory test website to help them pass this section.