"Frequently Asked Questions!"

We have driving instructors throughout the North East, so usually we can book a driving lesson with as little as 48 hours notice although it can be more at busy times.

Yes, we have driving instructors who are available for both driving lessons and intensive driving courses, with no waiting times.

Yes, certainly. We try our best at Driving Skill to accommodate the customers availability. If you local instructor is unavailable, we will contact your next local instructor to assist you with your lessons.

Lessons typically last between 1 to 2 hours.

The number of lessons varies per individual, but instructors often recommend a mix of professional lessons and private practice.

Driving Skill provides both, though an automatic-only license restricts you from driving manual cars.

No, you can start practical lessons before passing the theory test, but you must pass it to book your practical test.

Yes, the car you learn in is typically the car you will use for your practical test.

You will need a D1 Drivers Licence Application Form, this Application Form can be picked up from most UK Post Offices or apply online at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/apply-first-provisional-driving-licence(https://www.gov.uk/apply-first-provisional-driving-licence) Complete the D1 Drivers Licence Application Form. You will need to provide proof of identity, such as a passport, and a form of address verification, along with a passport-sized photo.

Driving Skill require 24 hours notice for cancellations of driving lessons to avoid charging for the lesson. And 14 days for intensive driving courses.

All of our driving instructors at Driving Skill have over 12 years of experience, and have a high grade 1st time pass rate.

Driving Skill offers individual lesson rates and discounted block-booking packages.

Yes, you must have a valid provisional license before your first lesson.

Most of our Instructors at Driving Skill are available for intensive driving courses nationwide within the UK. This will be highlighted for each instructor on the map on the Intensive Driving Courses web page. In the event the instructor is showing only available for driving lessons, please call our office on 0800 037 3036, and we will arrange for your nearest instructor to assist you with your intensive driving course enquiry.

Yes, absolutely. Due to the high demand for intensive driving courses at present, and the delay for Driving Tests in the UK. Once you start your chosen intensive driving course, the remaining hours left for the Driving Test day will be guaranteed for a period of 8 months from when you started your intensive driving course. In the event the DVSA has had to reschedule your Driving Test, the 8 month period will be extended to ensure your training is ready for the rescheduled Driving Test date.

Yes you can.  You can choose the lesson start time and duration to suit your own schedule.  Driving lesson rates are charged at the same rate for evenings and weekends.

Tests generally include an eyesight check, "show me/tell me" vehicle safety questions, and roughly 40 minutes of driving, including a manoeuvre.

Yes, many instructors offer flexible pick-up/drop-off locations.

Yes, the amount you have paid as either a course deposit, or in full, is securely held by Driving Skill to ensure funds can be returned to the customer in the event of a cancellation is made within the specified 14 day cancellation period. All customers are to be advised that Driving Skill needs to receive an email from the customer to our email support@drivingskill.co.uk (mailto:support@drivingskill.co.uk) to advise of a course cancellation, in order to be able to ensure a refund. The cancellation is required to be no less than 14 days before the course start date and time. All customers are to be advised, a cancellation refund fee from £10-£40 depending on the course price is charged by Driving Skill. This cancellation refund fee is for the admin processing and bank charges incurred by Driving Skill. Full details are advised on the Refunds and Cancellations page of our website.

At Driving Skill, we have decided to exclude the Driving Test fee from the course price. This is because, there are different fees charged by the DVSA for weekday, weekends and Bank Holidays driving test times. If you would like Driving Skill to book a driving test for your, the driving test fee will need to be added to the course price.

A: Driving Skill focuses on personalized instruction tailored to each student's needs, combining comprehensive theoretical knowledge with practical driving experience. Our experienced instructors emphasise safe driving habits, defensive driving techniques, and understanding road rules to prepare students not only to pass their driver’s licence test but also to navigate real-world driving situations confidently and responsibly. We provide a supportive learning environment that builds skill and confidence through step-by-step guidance, ensuring every student gains the competence required to be a safe driver on the road.

There are currently no waiting times at Driving Skill for you to be able to book a driving course. We have instructors who are available immediately to complete your intensive driving course. Once we receive an initial deposit, or payment in full, we are able to reserve your booked intensive driving course immediately, and start the process of arranging an ideal location, date and time with you to take your driving test.

Yes, learner drivers in England, Scotland, and Wales can drive on motorways if accompanied by an approved driving instructor in a car fitted with dual controls.

The driving test includes an eyesight check, ‘show me, tell me’ questions, general driving ability, reversing manoeuvres, and independent driving, either following directions from a sat nav or road signs.

Intensive driving courses involve several hours of lessons each day over a short period, such as one to two weeks. These courses are designed to quickly prepare you for the driving test.

To prepare for the theory test, study the Highway Code, use theory test revision materials, and practice with mock tests to become familiar with the types of questions asked.

Pass Plus is a practical training course aimed at improving your driving skills and knowledge. It can also help reduce your insurance premiums.

Yes, learners can drive at night as long as they are supervised by a qualified driver and the vehicle is appropriately insured and equipped with L-plates.

The ‘show me, tell me’ part of the driving test includes questions about vehicle safety and maintenance. You will need to demonstrate and explain how to perform certain checks.

Yes, many instructors offer mock driving tests to help you get used to the format and identify any areas that need improvement.

You must be able to read a number plate from 20 meters away with or without corrective lenses.

Intensive driving courses can help you learn quickly, retain information better, and prepare for your driving test in a shorter period.

Intensive driving courses can be overwhelming for some learners and may not suit those who prefer a slower pace of learning.

Yes, you can start driving immediately after passing your test as long as you have valid insurance and a vehicle that meets legal requirements.

Hazard perception involves identifying and responding to potential hazards on the road, and it is a key part of the theory test.

Yes, you can change your driving test appointment online through the DVSA website, but changes must be made at least three working days in advance. Most of our customers prefer us to book the practical driving test for them, this eliminates any issues regarding ideal dates and times, and to ensure the car and instructor is available on the day of your driving test. Driving Skill does not charge an extra fee to book the driving test, only the driving test fee.

Eco-safe driving involves techniques that reduce fuel consumption and environmental impact, such as smooth acceleration, maintaining a steady speed, and anticipating traffic flow.

We cover the following DVSA Driving Test centres in the North East. • Alnwick • Blyth • Gosforth • Gateshead • Hexham • Sunderland • Durham • Darlington • Teesside • Middlesborough