Frequently Asked Questions

You can start learning to drive when you turn 17 years old. However, you can apply for your provisional driving licence when you're 15 years and 9 months old, so it arrives in time for your 17th birthday.

There's no upper age limit for learning to drive - we specialize in adult learners and have successfully taught students in their 40s, 50s, and beyond!

Before your first lesson, you'll need:

• A valid provisional driving licence
• To be able to read a number plate from 20 metres away
• To meet basic medical requirements for driving

Your provisional licence costs £34 online (£43 by post) and usually arrives within 1-3 weeks of applying. You can apply for your provisional licence from the following link: https://www.gov.uk/apply-first-provisional-driving-licence

The DVSA (government agency) states the average learner needs 45 hours of professional lessons plus 22 hours of private practice. However, our students typically need around 30 hours due to our proven teaching methods.

Factors that affect lesson requirements:

• Your previous driving experience
• How frequently you take lessons
• Whether you practice between lessons
• Your learning style and confidence levels

After your first lesson, we'll give you a realistic estimate based on your individual progress.

We offer both manual and automatic driving lessons to suit your preferences:

• Manual lessons: Learn to drive any car - gives you maximum flexibility
• Automatic lessons: Focus on road skills without gear changes - often easier for nervous learners

Choosing automatic means:

• Simpler learning process - no clutch or gear changes
• Less stressful, especially in traffic
• Quicker to learn the basics
• Perfect for nervous learners

Note: If you pass in an automatic, you can only drive automatic cars. If you pass in a manual, you can drive both.

Current UK driving test costs (2025):

• Theory Test: £23 (multiple choice + hazard perception)
• Practical Test: £62 (weekdays) or £75 (evenings/weekends)

You must pass your theory test before booking your practical test. The theory result is valid for 2 years. We provide free theory test support and advice to all our students.

The practical test lasts about 38-40 minutes and includes an eyesight check, 'show me, tell me' questions, and independent driving.

No, you don't need to pass your theory test before starting practical lessons. Many students find it helpful to combine both:

• Practical lessons help you understand theory concepts
• Theory knowledge improves your practical driving
• You experience real road situations that appear in theory questions

However, you must pass your theory test before you can book your practical driving test.

Absolutely! We specialize in nervous learners and understand that everyone learns at their own pace. Our approach includes:

• Starting in quiet areas to build confidence
• Clear, step-by-step explanations of everything
• No pressure or rushing - we go at your pace
• Positive encouragement and constructive feedback
• 20+ years of experience with anxious students

Many of our most nervous students become our most confident drivers. We'll never make you feel uncomfortable or judged.

Not at all! Adult learners often make excellent students because they:

• Are more focused and determined
• Have better decision-making skills
• Take instruction seriously
• Ask questions when unsure
• Practice good judgment on the road

We've successfully taught students in their 60s and 70s. Age brings maturity that can actually be an advantage when learning to drive.

Your first lesson will include:

• Cockpit drill: Adjusting mirrors, seat, and understanding controls
• Basic car knowledge: What does what and why
• Moving off and stopping: In a quiet car park or quiet road
• Steering practice: Getting used to how the car responds
• Getting to know you: Understanding your goals and concerns

We'll start in a very quiet area where you can learn the basics without pressure. You won't be thrown onto busy roads on your first lesson!

Yes, absolutely:

• Fully qualified ADI: All our instructors are DVSA approved
• Dual controls: Instructor has brake and clutch pedals for safety
• Fully insured: Comprehensive insurance coverage
• Regular safety checks: Cars maintained to high standards
• Background checked: All instructors are CRB/DBS checked

Your safety is our top priority. Our 20+ years in business and excellent reviews demonstrate our commitment to safe, professional instruction.

Yes, we offer flexible pickup and drop-off within our Oxford service area. We can collect you from:

• Your home address
• Work or college (with advance notice)
• A convenient meeting point

We'll arrange pickup details when you book your lesson. This service is included in your lesson time to ensure you get full value.

We pickup and drop off in Oxford, we can meet you in most places within OX1 - OX4.

We maintain a 78% first-time pass rate, compared to the UK average of 47.5%. You'll be ready for your test when you can consistently:

• Drive independently without prompting
• Handle all manoeuvres confidently
• Make good decisions in various traffic situations
• Stay calm under pressure

We'll never put you forward for a test until we're confident you're ready. Most of our students pass within 6 months of starting lessons.