Information for Learner Drivers

Whether you are a complete novice, had some lessons before, or you feel you are nearly ready to sit your test, Gerry Petticrew Driving School will provide you with a personally tailored driving plan aimed at teaching you safe driving skills and techniques that will help you pass your driving test. Everything will be done at a pace you are comfortable with to ensure that you are not placed under unnecessary pressure. We work together with all our clients so that we can identify what you are strong at and what areas of your driving may require a little more tuition. Before you begin your lessons:

You must be 17 years old.

You must obtain a provisional driving licence which allows you to legally drive on the roads with a  qualified driver. You can apply up to three months before your 17th birthday. The application form you need is called a D1 form and is available from the Post Office. Alternatively you can apply online at www.dvla.gov.uk You will also need a passport size photograph to submit with your application. It usually takes three weeks for your licence to arrive. For latest prices and more information please check www.direct.gov.uk.

If you have any concerns about your vision visit an optician for an eye test.

Make yourself familiar with the Highway Code so that you can recognise road signs and road markings etc.

Don't get nervous, driving is easy and you’ll be in safe hands during your lessons.

You do not need insurance to drive our vehicles, but you do for any other.

You do not need any driving experience, we regularly teach drivers of all levels and competence.

Make sure you choose a professional instructor who can help you with both the theory and the practical
driving test.

We recommend professional instruction, but you can also practice in another vehicle if you are accompanied by someone who is at least 21 years of age, they have held a full driving licence for at least three years and you display ‘L’ plates at the front and rear of the car. Always make sure you have adequate insurance cover.

When identifying an instructor don't be afraid to ask questions. The only questions most people ask are price and pass rates. Nobody is ever going to tell you they have a less than average pass rate and most instructors make it up, you know the old saying about lies, damn lies and statistics. Perhaps the better questions are to do with their experience, lesson flexibility, support for theory test, lesson hand outs and the progress cards used to monitor how well you are doing. You could ask about Pass Plus, motorway lessons, advanced driver training, advice on insurance, how to practice in your own car, what car is used for instruction, instructors grade and Continuing Professional Training (are they keeping current with their skills).  Don't just look for the cheapest either, you get what you pay for. If an instructor is really cheap is he going to be able to afford to spend time planning your lessons so you get the most out of them or is he going to be scrabbling for the next pupil.