Last Updated on December 1, 2023
Embarking on the journey of learning to drive is both thrilling and potentially overwhelming. To ensure a smooth experience leading up to your practical driving test, thoughtful planning before booking your driving lessons is essential.
Here we discuss five crucial factors to consider before booking your driving lessons:
1. Apply for Your Provisional Driving License
Obtaining a provisional license is one the first and foremost steps when you start learning to drive. It’s a legal requirement and a prerequisite for your driving lessons. Applying for your provisional driving licence is a straightforward process. You can apply by post (£43) or online (£34). The sooner you obtain your provisional license, the sooner you can start learning to drive.
Driving instructors will often request to see your provisional license prior to, or during your initial lesson to confirm your eligibility. Without it, progress on the road may screech to a halt!
2. Practice Driving Regularly for Perfection
Supplementing your formal lessons with additional practice can significantly enhance your driving skills and boost your confidence on the road. The DVSA estimate learner drivers that practise with friends or family are 1.5 times more likely to pass their driving test.
Consider learner driver insurance and utilise your parents’ knowledge for extra driving time. This not only provides practical experience but also reinforces theoretical knowledge.
3. Choose the Right Driving Instructor Before Booking Your Driving Lessons
Finding a driving instructor who aligns with your personality and learning style is pivotal to your success. Look for qualities such as patience, supportiveness, and punctuality. These factors contribute to a comfortable and effective learning environment.
When choosing a driving instructor, consider reviews, waiting lists, and teaching styles. Making the right choice ensures you invest your time and money wisely in your driving education.
Our handy blog article on ‘How to find the right driving instructor’ provides a step by step guide on choosing an instructor that’s right for you.
4. Prepare for Your Practical and Theory Tests
Attaining your full license involves two critical tests – the theory and practical driving tests. Thorough preparation is key. The theory test, which is a written exam, must be completed before booking the practical driving test.
When you buy Collingwood learner driver insurance, you receive free access to the premium version of the learner driver app, RoadHow. RoadHow utilises a wide range of DVSA approved tests, quizzes and hazard perception clips designed to build and improve your driving knowledge.
You can also utilise additional resources, including The Highway Code, learning apps, and mock tests to revise and solidify your understanding of road rules.
The practical test allows you to apply theoretical knowledge under the guidance of an instructor. Being well-prepared for your driving test helps to ensure a smoother transition to independent driving.
5. Purchase Learner Driver Insurance
Even as a learner driver, having appropriate insurance is crucial if you want to practice in your own, a friend, or a family member’s car outside of formal lessons. Choose a coverage period based on your estimated time to pass the test. Collingwood learner driver options include short-term insurance (from 28 days) to longer annual (12 month) policies. Collingwood insurance offers flexibility, allowing you to gain confidence and road knowledge at your own pace.
In conclusion, by addressing these considerations, you should be well-prepared to embark on your learning to drive journey. Book your driving lessons with confidence, knowing you’ve covered the essential groundwork for a successful driving experience.
