FAQ's
When can I start learning to drive?
You can start learning to drive on public roads at the age of 17, but you must have a valid provisional driving licence.
How do I apply for a provisional driving licence?
You can apply for your first provisional driving licence at 15 years and 9 months old. You can do this with a valid UK biometric passport or another form of identity document. Once confirmed your provisional should arrive within 7 working days. To apply or find out more, please visit gov.uk.
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Can I have lessons before I pass a theory test?
Of course! You can have driving lessons before you pass your theory test.
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Do I really need driving lessons?
There aren't actually any laws about having driving lessons before sitting your driving test. However, to meet the high standards required to pass your driving test, it is strongly recommended to have lessons with a DVSA approved driving instructor.
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How many lessons will I need to pass a test?
There isn't a maximum or minimum amount of hours you must complete before taking a driving test. The DVSA statistics say the average amount of lessons to be test ready is 45 hours. It's also strongly recommended that you have a further 22 private hours to help pass the test.
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How many lessons should I have a week?
It’s recommended to have 2 hours of lessons a week. However, it’s completely up to you. You can have more or less.
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1 hour or 2 hour lessons?
2 hour lessons are generally more beneficial to the student than 1 hour lessons. This is for a number of reasons. For example, it can help reduce the learning time as it allows for better retention of information. Can reduce the overall cost to the student as 2 hour lessons can come discounted. 2 hour lessons also give you time to cover a greater variety of road types. But this is all down to personal preference.
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Automatic or manual driving lessons?
Most people opt for manual lessons but this is completely down to personal preference. Generally, students can pass an automatic test quicker than those in a manual. This is due to the fact that there isn't a clutch in automatics. It’s important to remember that if you pass your test in an automatic you will be restricted to automatic vehicles only. Passing in a manual gives you the freedom to drive both.
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Can I take a test in my own car?
Yes, you can use your own car on a driving test. But only if it meets certain rules such as it's taxed, MOT’d, and is insured for driving tests. To find out more, please visit gov.uk.
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What is dual control?
Dual control is a brake and/or clutch pedal fitted to the passenger side of the vehicle. These extra pedals allow the driving instructor to stay in control of the vehicle and allows them to stop the car safely.
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I already have foreign licence. Do I need to take a test in the UK?
Foreign licence holders who have recently moved to the UK are generally allowed to drive in the UK for 12 months but must pass a test before this ends to continue to be a full licence holder. When booking your test, you will need a UK provisional licence but don't have to drive displaying L plates for the 12 month period. To find out more, please visit gov.uk.
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What area do you cover?
Ashdown Driving Academy currently covers driving lessons in Kidderminster, Bewdley & Stourport on Severn. If you're just outside any of these areas, still feel free to contact us. We're always happy to go that extra mile.