Covering Widnes, Runcorn and Frodsham

What You Need To Know

Learner 2016There are three parts to passing your driving test:

  • Theory Test
  • Hazard Perception Test
  • Practical Driving Test

You need to have passed the first two at the same time before you can apply for your practical test. There is usually approximately six weeks between applying for your practical test and your test date but this does vary depending on where you live.

Driving Theory Test (more info)

The driving theory test is a 50 question, multiple choice test. Topass, you must answer 43 or more questions correctly within 57 minutes. The questions are chosen at random from a bank of over 1,000 questions covering all driving topics.

Hazard Perception Test (more info)

Part Two of your driving theory test shows you a series of 14 one-minute video clips, each showing potential hazards involving road conditions, pedestrians or road users. There are 15 hazards to identify and you can score up to five points on each one, depending on how quickly you identify them. The faster you identify a hazard which would affect the driver, the higher you score. You need to score at least 44 out of 75 to pass this test.

The fee for the combined theory and hazard perception test is £23.00.

Practical Driving Test (more info)

At your practical driving test, you will have 40 minutes to demonstrate everything you have learned in your driving lessons with JDS. You'll need to show you can drive competently and safely in all kinds of driving situations. You'll be asked to do one of the four reversing manoeuvres that you've practised with your driving instructor, 10 minutes of independent driving which will be either following 2 or 3 road signs or maybe a very simple map, possibly make an emergency stop and answer two vehicle safety check questions, one 'show me' and 'one tell me'. To pass, you will have to complete the test with no serious faults and 15 minor errors or less. The current national average practical driving test pass rate is 42.9%+, so it makes sense to be as prepared as possible, your driving instructor will help to advise you when you are ready for the test and also help you to understand the main reasons people fail. If you fail your practical driving test, but pass your theory, you need only sit the practical next time.

A weekday test costs £62.00. For an evening or weekend appointment, it will be £75.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can learn to drive?

To learn to drive you must have a provisional driving licence and be at least 17 years old. (Unless you are disabled in which case you must be at least 16 years old).

How do I get a provisional driving licence?

Your local Post Office should have a form. Send off for your licence in good time as I will need to see it on your first lesson.

Who can teach me to drive?

To accept payment for driving tuition the teacher must be approved by the Driving Standards Agency. A fully qualified ADI (Approved Driving Instructor) will display a green licence in the windscreen of the car. A pink licence in the windscreen indicates that the instructor is a trainee. I am a fully qualified approved driving instructor.

How many lessons will I need?

This depends on a variety of factors such as past road experience and any natural ability you may have. However, if you are consistent and regular with your lessons this will help you to progress quicker than would be the case otherwise. Please be assured that I will help you to progress as quickly and safely as possible and you will always know where you are!

How long are the lessons?

I usually recommend 2 hour lessons as this way you relax into driving better and accomplish more in one session, helping you to achieve test standard faster. However, 1 hour lessons are also available if you wish.

How much are lessons?

Please call to enquire about prices.

Do you offer any incentives?

Yes! 1 hour free tuition if you introduce anyone to JDS and they complete 10 hours of tuition.

When and how do I pay?

You pay on the day at the start of your lesson with either cash or cheque.

What will I do on my first lesson?

When we first meet I won't expect you to drive away from your house. We will go to a suitable location, I will introduce myself properly and we will talk about what we aim to do in that lesson.

Will there be any other learners in the car on my lesson?

No, I only do one-to-one tuition, this way you have my complete undivided attention and the whole of the lesson period is devoted to your learning.

What car will I learn in?

A Ford Fiesta

What happens if the car breaks down?

Your lesson will be rearranged for a time convenient to both parties. You will be informed as soon as I am aware that I will be unable to make your lesson.

What if I need to cancel a lesson?

Just give me a call to let me know. Please give me as much notice as possible at least 24hrs otherwise you will be charged for that lesson.

Do I need any insurance?

No, I have insurance which covers any learner whilst driving my vehicle.

How will I know how I'm progressing and when I will ready for my test?

You will receive feedback after each lesson so you will always know how you are doing. I also supply record cards which we fill in after each lesson. When I think you are near test standard we can do mock tests to give you a better idea of how you would do on your practical driving test.

Do you provide any support for the theory test?

Yes. I will question you while driving on road signs and markings and also asking you how you will deal with given situations which will prepare you for the hazard perception. I will give you any assistance you need to passing your theory test and recommend a suitable CD for practise at home.

What are the benefits of Pass Plus?

Pass plus is for people who have already passed their driving tests. Statistics reveal that you are most at risk of an accident during your first 2 years of driving than any other time. This is down to a lack of driving experience. Pass plus provides this essential experience, hence making you safer on the roads. In recognition that a Pass Plus certificate can make you a better driver, some insurance companies will offer substantial discounts for individuals who hold a Pass Plus certificate. I will advise you of which insurance companies to use to obtain this discount.

What extra experience will I gain on Pass Plus?

Pass Plus Modules include:
1) Introduction to Pass Plus and Town Driving.
2) All Weather Driving.
3) Out of Town Driving and Rural Roads.
4) Night Driving.
5) Dual Carriageway Driving.
6) Motorway Driving.