Learning To Drive
You need to be 17 to start learning to drive and have a valid provisional licence before you take your first driving lessons. If you don’t yet have a provisional licence you will have to complete a D1 form, you can find these at the post office. Once completed you need to send the form to the DVLA along with your passport or birth certificate, and a passport sized photo. You can also apply for a provisonal licence before your 17th birthday.
Eyesight
Theres a minimum standard for driving so make sure your eyesight is ok . You must be able to read an old style number plate in good daylight from a distance of 20.5 meters (that’s approximatly 5 car lengths). The distance for the new style number plates introduced in september 2001 is 20 meters. If you need to wear glasses or contact lenses that’s ok, but you must wear them whenever you drive. If you have any worries regarding your eyesight visit your optician.
Private practice
To accompany a learner driver, you need to be at least 21, have held
a full driving licence for at least three years and display 'L'
plates on the back and front of your car.
The Driving Standards Agency says the average learner takes 45
hours of tuition and over 20 hours of private
practice to be ready for the test.
These tips will help make your learner's private practice
more effective:
1. Use private practice to follow up things covered in the driving lessons.
2. Follow the instructor's advice as much as you can.
3. Be patient and keep calm.
