Frequently Asked Questions

Now that you have taken the first step to becoming a safe and competent driver I will try to answer some of the most frequently asked questions.

How Qualified Is My Driving Instructor?

Trainee Driving Instructor. This driving instructor has passed the theory and hazard perception test and driving exam but is waiting to qualify with the part 3 tuition exam and is still in training stage.

Fully qualified DSA approved driving instructor. This instructor has passed the theory and hazard perception test and has passed advanced driving level test with less than 7 minor faults in an hour. They have also passed the part 3 tuition exam. This is the minimum standard accepted by the driving standards agency.

 

 

 

 

Diamond advanced instructor has done both of the above and has gone on to study for the AEB Diploma in road safety and driver education. The Diploma examination consist of five separate modules. Each module is a complete in itself and is examined in a paper of two hours duration. The five modules are Legal obligations and regulations, Management of a small driving school, Vehicle maintenance and mechanical principles, Driving theory skills and procedures, Instructing practices and procedures. Once the instructor has finished the diploma they are eligible to take the Cardington special driving test in Bedfordshire where all DSA driving examiners are trained. This test lasts for 2 hours and you must have no more than 2 minor faults to pass at a grade A.

If you intend to phone around, don't be afraid to ask what qualification your instructor will have.

Who can teach me to drive?

Anyone over the age of 21 that has held a full licence for the category of vehicle for three consecutive years or more. However to be able to accept payment or reward for giving driving tuition the instructor must be licenced by the driving standards agency. A fully qualified driving instructor will have a GREEN licence and a trainee driving instructor will have a PINK licence on display in their windscreen. A diamond advanced instructor will display the blue and white sticker to advertise their advanced status. See examples above.

How many lessons will I need?

This is a difficult question to answer but it will depend on any experience you may already have. Cycling and motorcycling can help as you will already have some road sense. Above all, it depends on your dedication, commitment and aptitude to learning. However over the years the driving test has got longer and more difficult to pass. The DSA have estimated that on average it will take the novice driver approximately forty hours to reach the required standard to sit the driving test.

Will there be other learners in the car?

 No, we guarantee one to one driving tuition. Many of our competitors make pupils drop off the previous customer and collect the next. At AAA the time is dedicated to you.

What will i do in my first lesson?

Many potential learners are apprehensive about their first lesson. At AAA rest assured that we will not expect you to jump in at the deep end. We will pick you up and drive to a suitable area, properly introduce ourselves and then set out what we expect you to achieve from your first lesson. It is very unlikely you will be reversing around corners and going around roundabouts so relax and enjoy it.

Will I know how well I am doing?

Yes at the end of each lesson we will give you feedback on your performance and knowledge for the syllabus being covered and fill in the relevant details on your progress sheet. As time goes on you will develop your driving skills and become more skilled and confident.

What course will suit me?

Whether you want one lessons a week or a block of lessons a week we have the experience and expertise to guide you.