Get the most from your driving lessons

top-tips-post-it-note1. Wear the right footwear
It’s easier to control the pedals wearing comfortable shoes. Heavy boots can make it hard to perfect driving techniques and heels will get scuffed and give you less control. Choose thin, narrow shoes to give you the necessary ‘feel’ on the pedals.

2. Get a good night’s sleep
Make sure you are fresh and ready to learn when your instructor arrives. It is also advisable to minimise alcohol consumption the night before, to give you a clear head.

3. Learn at the right pace
Book a minimum of one 2-hour lesson per week when you start learning to drive.
 As you progress you may find that two or more lessons a week suit you better. Your driving instructor will offer the best guidance on the right pace for you.

4. Practice between lessons
The average learner needs 20 hours of practice to pass the driving test, in addition to 45 hours of driving lessons. Once you’ve started learning, ask your instructor for advice about when you are ready to start practising between lessons.

You can practice driving between lessons while accompanied by anyone who is over 21 years old
 has held a full British driving licence for at least three years.

5. If you’re in a hurry, take an intensive course
If you want to pass your driving test before a certain time – before you go to college, for instance – consider an intensive course. These consist of extended one-on-one tuition, with some teaching people to drive in as little as a week. Details of the intensive courses we offer can be found here.

6. Study for the theory test while you learn to drive

Studying theory and practice at the same time makes learning both easier. Theory gives lots of hints on the best way of driving and their importance can be underlined when on the road. You can get free theory test training here.