Although it is not compulsary, the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) recommend that you take lessons with an ADI (approved driving instructor). A family member can teach you but it is wise to combine this with tuition from an instructor to increase pass success.

How do I find an instructor?

Approved driving schools can be found using local directories or the DSA website. Large and well-known schools have instructors across the country and there will certainly be one in your area.

How much do lessons cost?

On average lesson are between £25-30 per session (usually an hour) for a reliable driving school or independent instructor.

If you're just starting out learning to drive, get the lowdown on some of the basic car controls.

How many hours would I need?

This varies from learner driver to learner driver. Everybody learns to drive at their own pace so no one can say how many lessons you'll need. A good driving instructor will monitor your progress at every lesson and should give you honest advice on how ready you are for the practical test.

What car choices do I have?

The majority of people learn to drive in a manual car. However, it's possible to take lessons in an automatic car, which is usually easier to drive. The major difference is a manual car has gears and three foot pedals, including the clutch that is operated with the left foot. An automatic car has an automatic gearbox that changes the gears for you and only two foot pedals which are operated with the right foot.

It is totally up to you what type of car you choose but you must be aware that if you pass the practical driving test in an automatic car you will not be licensed to drive a manual. If you pass in a manual you can drive both legally.

Updated: 15/06/2011

Written by Sarah Willoughby