Pupil Hub
This page is designed to give you all the information you need to apply for your provisional driving licence, how to book lessons and recommended reading material to assist you in learning to drive. You will also find useful links to sites where you can apply for your driving licence and book your theory and practical tests online. We trust you will find this page both informative and helpful.
Applying for your provisional licence: Before you can start your driving lessons you will need to obtain a provisional driving licence. You can apply online at GOV.UK: If you intend to start your lessons on your 17th birthday you will need to allow approximately 4 weeks for your licence to be issued, so make sure you apply early to avoid disappointment. You will need to present your provisional licence to your instructor at the start of your first lesson otherwise the lesson cannot go ahead.
Booking your lessons couldn’t be simpler – you can call direct on 07891 318504 or can submit your details, for us to call you, via our contact form at the foot of this page or via What’sApp or SMS.
Once you have booked your initial lesson(s) and made your first payment, you will receive an invite to download our student app provided by MyDriveTime. Our student app will allow you to view all lessons booked, payments made, your learning progress and so much more!
Before you can book your practical driving test you will need to pass your theory test. The theory test consists of two parts: the multiple choice section and the hazard perception section.
The multiple choice section consists of 50 questions – the questions cover a range of topics related to driving and will include questions on traffic signs, signals, rules and safe driving practices. you will need to answer at least 43 questions correctly to pass this section.
The hazard perception section consists of 14 video clips, each about a minute long, showing different driving situations. You will need to identify potential hazards as they appear in each clip by clicking a mouse button. You can score up to 5 points for each hazard, depending how quickly you identify it, with one of the clips containing 2 hazards – the pass mark for this section is 44 out of 75. You will need to pass both parts of the test, should you fail one part you will have to retake the whole test again.
You will receive a certificate for passing your theory test which is valid for 2 years.You must pass your practical test within those 2 years or you will need to retake your theory test.Your instructor will be willing to assist you with your theory preparation. You can book your theory test here
COOL Driving recommends the Driving Test Success 4 in 1 Kit for your theory revision.
Once you have passed your theory test you will be able to book your practical test. It is strongly recommended that you discuss a viable time frame between passing your theory test and taking your practical test with your instructor.
Your instructor will have the knowledge to assess your current progress and advise you on what areas you need to improve on and areas that you still need to cover. Please make sure that you are guided by your instructor as to when to apply, many people fail their practical test simply because they are insufficiently prepared. You can find some helpful advice on what to expect and what is required to pass your test on the Ready To Pass? website.
The practical test lasts, on average, between 40 and 45 minutes and during that time your examiner will be checking to see if you have reached an overall standard of safe driving. Your examiner will not be looking for perfection from you as you are allowed up to 15 driving faults (often referred to as minors) during the test. However, should you incur 16 or more driving faults or 1 serious or dangerous driving fault then this will result in a fail.
At the start of your practical test your examiner will check your eyesight by asking you to read a number plate from a distance of approximately 20 metres, should you fail to do this your test will not go ahead and your booking fee will be forfeited.
FAQ's
Do I need to have to be in possession of my provisional licence before I can start my driving lessons?
Yes, you will need to present your licence to your instructor at the start of your first lesson otherwise the lesson cannot go ahead.
What time can I have my lessons and do I come to you?
Lessons are tailored to suit your needs, there are even selected weekend and evening lesson times available for those that have limited availability. Your instructor will gladly collect you from home, work, college or any place of your choice providing that it falls within the catchment area of COOL Driving (see our Coverage page).
Can I learn and take my practical test in my own car?
Yes you can take your practical test in your own car providing that your vehicle is properly insured, taxed and has a valid M.O.T. certificate if required. Unfortunately your instructor does not provide tuition in other vehicles than their own but you can practice in your own car as long as you are supervised by someone over 21 and who has held a full licence for at least 3 years.
How many lessons will I need to pass my test?
As individuals we all have different strengths and weaknesses so some of us will learn quicker than others. Your instructor will strive to teach you correctly and thoroughly in as few a lessons as is needed. It is in your instructor’s best interests that you pass your test in as short, yet realistic, time as possible in the hope that you will recommend them to your friends and family. Your instructor gains nothing by making you have more lessons than you need. Our main purpose is to teach you to become a safe and competent driver. For guidance only, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency state that those who pass their test first time have had, on average, 45 hours of professional training combined with 22 hours of private practice.
If I fail my theory test first time can I take it again?
There is currently no limit to the number of times you can take your theory test.
Do I need to pass my practical test within a certain time of passing my theory test?
Yes you must pass your practical test within 2 years of passing your theory otherwise you will have to retake your theory test.
What vehicle will I take my practical test in?
You can take your test in whichever vehicle you choose. In most cases this will be your instructor’s car but it could be your own. The DVSA do not supply vehicles.
Do I need to pay in advance for my lessons?
Yes, payment for any lesson must be made no later than 48 hours in advance except for your very first lesson where payment is required 72 hours prior.