Do i need to pass a theory test before driving lessons?

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You do not need to pass your theory test before taking driving lessons. Taking the theory test in advance will build up your confidence comes the day of your first lesson, as you will have a good understanding of the highway code, should the instructor ask you any theory related questions during your first lesson.

All that is required to take your first driving lesson is a provisional licence and test drive insurance for a day or the few hours needed to complete your prearranged driving test.

Do I need to pass theory test before driving test?

Yes, you need to pass your theory test before even applying for the practical driving test. If you hold a UK or NI provisional licence, you must pass the theory test before booking your practice driving test. Some believe that you can take both test on the same day, this is a myth, you will need proof of having passed your theory before your application for practice test will be processed.

Should you do theory test before lessons?

Whilst it is not required to have completed and passed your theory test before taking driving lessons, it is recommended for the following reasons.

Confidence booster : Having cracked your theory test, the extra confidence will help any unhelpful nerves come the day of your practice test.
High Code Knowledge : Having studied and passed the highway code section, you will not get stumped during the practical if asked any theory type questions.

Most leaner drivers will start driving lessons with some basic knowledge of the highway code and rely on the instructor to guide them and to some extent test them on their driving knowledge during the driving lesson phase. Like school never rely on the teacher and put in time to study and reviewing the highway code in your own time and take some example test in advance, practice will help make perfect or at least help you pass the test.

How can I calm my nerves before my first driving lesson?

We all have nerves, some are more affected than others, nerves are not necessarily bas as it proves that you are taking the upcoming driving lesson seriously. Nerves can also make you perform below your natural ability, so if these can be kept under control then you should benefit more during lesson times. We have listed some simple steps that you can take to keep a lid on your pre driving lesson nerves.

Firstly, share your feelings with your driving instructor. Part of an instructor's role is to put you at ease, and the instructor will have experience dealing with drivers with some level of anxiety. If you feel the instructor is not helping, simply change the instructor.
Reflection : You are learning a new skill and like any learning process reflection will help you view any mistakes or see ways that you could improve, This reflective knowledge will help you move forward in the
Imagination
Be in good roadworthy condition, no warning lights good tyres etc.

Do you need an instructor to take your driving test

The official government website states that you do not need an instructor to take your driving test. This means that you can take the driving test in your own car if it meets the following qualifying criteria.

Be taxed and have valid MOT (if over 3 years old)
Be insured for you to drive
Be smoke free, no smoking to calm any nerves inside the car
Be in good roadworthy condition, no warning lights good tyres etc.

If your test car fails to meet these criteria, the instructor can refuse to proceed, and you will lose any payment and have to rebook.

How do I book my theory test?

It is easy to book your theory test direct, either online or over the phone. Do not pay extra to have some third party site book your test. This and more is covered in our book a theory test guide.

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