1. Cheap is not always the best

Don’t assume the cheapest lessons are the best. Concentrate on getting great value for your money. You should get a discount for block booking. Ask about offers on post-test tuition, motorway lessons and Pass Plus.

2. Lesson Lengths

Check out how long a ‘lesson’ really is. Some driving schools offer lessons that are less than an hour long, or pick up and drop off other pupils on your lesson time.

3. Check your Instructor

Make sure your instructor has a valid licence to teach issued by the Driving Standards Agency. This should be displayed on the windscreen to prove they are FULLY  QUALIFIED to teach you.

4. Check the Car

Check that the car you’ll drive has dual controls and is in good condition. Is there a spare car available in case of breakdown?

5. Theory Test

Check that the instructor can help with your theory test and buy a good theory book or CD-ROM to help you practice.

6. Test Application

Apply for your theory test as soon as you start your lessons.

7. Progress Record

Make sure your instructor keeps a record of your progress and follows the official Driving Standards Agency syllabus.

8. Practical Test

Agree with your instructor when to apply for your practical test (remember you need to pass your theory and hazard perception tests first).

9. Take your Time

Take at least an hour a week, preferably two, of regular lessons with your driving instructor. They will advise you on how much tuition you should need.

10. Tuition Car

Make sure your tuition car is available for a final lesson immediately before your test.