Frequently asked questions - Driving lessons Southampton

What do I need to start driving?

provisional driving licence available online You need to be 17 years old and have a valid Provisional Licence ( you can apply for this a few months in advance) You also need to be able to read a number plate from a distance of 20.5 metres. - you can apply for your provisional driving licence online here This currently cost £50 (although subject to change by the DVLA)

How many Lessons will I need?

This is a very difficult question to answer as everyone is very different. The Driving Standards Agency ( The people who run the Driving test) says on average people that pass the test have had about 40hrs of professional tuition. In my experience on average between 30- 50 lessons for a complete beginner. Obviously if someone has some experience this figure would drop.

Should I practise with my Mum or Dad?

I would always recommend that pupils get as much practice as possible as it will increase confidence and make you feel more comfortable behind the wheel. However always ask Chris first as you would need to reach a standard of driving first where you would not be dangerous! -I have dual controls- your Parents don't!!! You don't want to scare them off or they'll never offer to take you driving again!

On a serious note: your accompaning driver will need to be at least 21 years old and have held a full licence for 3 years. Make sure you display " L " plates when you drive and ensure you have insurance cover It's not worth taking the risk!!!

Click on this link to get a quote for learner drivers on your parents/ friends car without risk to their no claims bonus

Can I do an intensive or "crash" course?

Intensive courses cram in lots of hours of driving into a very short space of time. I have lots of regular pupils who have lessons on a weekly basis so I am unable to offer a course where you could start from scratch and pass in a week. However I am able to offer semi-intensive courses spread over perhaps several weeks if you are looking for a quick route to your licence.
Please call or Email for details

Do you offer Automatic lessons?

At present I don't have an Automatic tuition vehicle but in some circumstances you could use your own car if you have an automatic that you would like to learn in.
(If you take an automatic test your licence will be restricted to driving automatics)

Should I have more than 1 lesson a week?

Sure, if that suits you, providing that I can fit you in you could book in several lessons a week. It depends how intensively you would like to learn and how quickly you would like to pass the test.

I have a licence issued in another Country do I need to apply for a UK. Licence?

Normally a Licence Issued in another Country will be valid for 1 year to drive in this Country. Then you would need to apply for a provisional Licence. This will vary depending on the Country issuing your licence the best advice can be found on the DVLA website ( the people that issue Licences.) Click here for info

Do I have to pass the theory test first?

No, you can take the Theory test at any time. It's best to try and learn side by side- Theory and Practical. (Please explore the website for help with this subject.) Your Theory test only lasts for 2 years. You will need to pass the Driving test by the end of the 2 years or take the Theory test again!! Once you have passed the Driving test you wont need to take the theory test again. ( Unless you have your licence revoked.)

What if I have trouble reading or writing or can't understand English well?

Don't worry, there are arrangements in place including extra time allowance and listening to the questions/answers on the headphones provided. Candidates can also choose to listen to the questions/answers being read out through the headphones in over 20 different languages. If you have any concerns call the DSA call centre to book (rather than online) and speak to the advisor.

Where is the Theory test Centre?

The theory test centre In Southampton Is in CAPITAL HOUSE It can be found just behind Debenhams in the Town Centre. Click here for a map
If you don't live in Southampton you can find your nearest test centres HERE

When should I book my Driving Test?

This is something that will be discussed during the course of your lessons.
Normally I would suggest that you book the test yourself to get a time that is the most convenient for you, but help is available if required

What Car will I be using on the test?

You will use my car on the test so you will be used to it. If you have your own car it is possible to use that for the test but please speak to Chris first to make arrangements. There are very strict requirements laid down by the Driving Standards Agency for the cars used for practical tests.

How much will the test cost? Do I need to pay my instructor as well?

The test itself currently costs £56.50 or £67.00 for an evening or weekend slot (see DSA website for more info). Normally pupils will have a 1 hour lesson immediately before the test to settle in, calm nerves etc.. and then you will be charged the equivalent price of an hours lesson for the use of the car during your test. So Normally £44 would be payable to your instructor on the day of your test.( This can be part of a block booking ) The lesson before hand isn't compulsory but highly recommended, similarly, if you wanted to have a 2 hour lesson before your test that wouldn't be a problem either.

How do I get my new driving licence after passing the driving test?

Normal procedure is for the Examiner to keep hold of you Provisional licence.
Your new full Licence will then be sent to you in the post. Usually within 2-3 weeks.
You Are allowed to drive in the mean time using your blue pass certificate as proof of passing the driving test.

Can I take my test if i have lost or don't have both parts of my licence or theory certificate?

You will need both parts of your provisional licence( card and paper counterpart) in order to take both the theory and practical test. (It is not normally a problem if you don't have your theory certificate, but you wont be able to book your test online, you will need to phone the call centre and they can find your information on their computer and tell you your certificate number). You have up until 3 working days in order to cancel your test without losing your money so if you don't have both parts of your licence don't lose your money cancel or rearrange your test. You can order a replacement licence online here