So, you think you want to learn to drive? Well, the single most important decision you will make is your choice of instructor. A quote from the government’s website show’s just how important this is:
Recent surveys indicate that nine in ten learners who passed both theory and practical tests first time were taught by an instructor. A fully qualified approved driving instructor (ADI) must display a green certificate on the windscreen of the car while teaching you. Some trainee driving instructors are granted a licence so they can gain experience before their qualifying examination. In this case, the trainee driving instructor must display a pink certificate on the windscreen.
Please take note of the reference to the ‘pink certificate’. Some of the largest driving schools allow trainee driving instructors (those who haven’t passed the all-important test of instructional ability) to teach pupils and charge the full fee.
The instructor’s licence (green or pink) shows a photograph and must be on display in the windscreen at all times.
Steve follows the Driving Standards Agency’s prescribed teaching method resulting in relaxed, structured lessons. Your performance is carefully monitored so that you know exactly how you are progressing. You can be assured that Steve will be completely honest with you and will advise you to apply for the test only when he thinks you are ready.
You will be learning a skill for life and holding a driving licence is a privilege not a right.
Comprehensive information for new drivers, whether it’s your first time behind the wheel or you already hold a foreign licence and need to re-qualify, can be found on the government’s DirectGov website.
Links to the most relevant information on the DirectGov website are highlighted below. All the links open a new window or tab in your browser.