Provisional licence and useful literature
You are required to hold a provisional licence before you can start. To apply for this, you must complete the application form D1 that's available from either the 'Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency’ (DVLA) form ordering service', or from your local Post Office. It normally takes in the regions of about 4 weeks for your application to be processed and to receive your licence. The Highway Code is essential reading whilst you are learning to drive. It contains all of the rules and regulations that relate to driving in the UK.

Your Driving Theory Test
The theory test is made up of two parts; a multiple choice section and a Hazard Perception test. The multiple choice part is conducted by using a touch screen computer and mouse, while the hazard perception test records your responses through the use of a computer mouse button.
You'll need to pass both parts to successfully complete your theory test.

You can book your Theory test through the DSA (Driving Standards Agency) website alternatively your instructor can book it for you.

Lessons
You will need to complete the necessary lessons and your instructor will discuss your progress at the end of each lesson. When your instructor feels you are getting close to being ready for your driving test, they will recommend that you book your test date.

Your Practical Driving Test
You need to apply to take your test with your local DSA centre. You can do this online on www.dsa.gov.com or alternatively your Instructor can also arrange your test date for you.

The Test!
At first you will be required to perform an eyesight check and then asked a few vehicle safety questions. This will be followed by you being tested on your general driving ability, including two reversing exercises.

The 'Driving' part of your test will last about 40 minutes. Throughout the test your examiner will be looking for evidence that you've reached an overall safe standard of driving, as you carry out both general and specific manoeuvres. You can make up to 15 minor driving faults and still pass the test, but 16 or more minor faults results in a fail. However, if you commit just one serious or dangerous fault, you'll fail the test automatically.

You must bring the following items with you to the test. If you don't, the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) may refuse to carry out the test and you may lose your fee.

• An appropriately insured and licensed vehicle, displaying L- Plates,    Golds school of motoring vehicle

• Your appointment letter confirming your test time and date

• Theory test pass certificate.

• Both parts of your photo card licence, If you have an old-style paper  licence, you must take your signed driving licence and separate    approved photo identification with you

Your Full Licence
Congratulations you passed! You can now get out on the road. Don't forget that you now need to notify the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) or alternatively your examiner will offer to process this for you.

Pass Plus
After a period of enjoying the freedom of passing your driving test you may wish to apply for the ‘Pass plus’ qualification. This incorporates a course of positive driving and consists of: town driving, all weather driving, out of town driving and rural roads, night driving, dual carriageway driving, and motorway driving. There are a number of insurance companies who will offer reduced premiums for newly qualified drivers who possess a Pass Plus certificate. This could save you hundreds of pounds on your car insurance. For pass plus please contact us for a suitable time, it will cost £160.00 but could save you in the long term.