Do I need a provisional licence?

Yes. You must hold a provisional driving licence issued by the DVLA to learn to drive and to sit the UK Driving Test. You can apply for a provisional if you are 17, or in the case where you receive a disability allowance you can apply from 16.
For more information about provisional licences visit the DVLA website. If you are a British resident you can apply online provided you meet the criteria. Click here to apply online

Can I use an International Licence in the UK?

Yes. You can drive in the UK provided you have passed a test in that category.

Holders of a licence issued within the EU can drive for as long as their licence remains valid.

If you hold a licence issued in any other country you can drive a car in Great Britain for up to 12 months from the time you become resident. If you hold a licence issued by a designated country you can exchange your international licence for a UK one. Further information on designated countries can be found on the DVLA website here.

Do I need to take a Theory Test?

You will need to take a theory test if you hold a provisional licence and want to take the UK Driving test or want a licence for a new category of vehicle. For example, if you have a car licence and you want a motorcycle licence you will need to take a category specific theory test.
Once you have passed your theory test, your certificate will last for 2 years. You will need to complete your Driving Test within this time.

Does Ltest offer Theory training?

Yes we do. We offer a free online service through Theory Test Pro to all our customers. This will provide you with everything you need to get ready for the test. The system records your progress and will tell you when you are ready. Just keep practising, you can download an app to your phone or use the mobile site.
However if you would like classroom training we also run 1 Day Theory Training Courses. These are designed to work alongside your online training. Sign up for free theory training here.

The UK Driving Test

Once you have successfully completed your theory test, you can then apply to take your practical test at a local centre. Most test centres have a waiting period of around 8 weeks for driving tests. Your instructor will advise when to do this. Just speak to our office when making your booking.
The test will last for around 40 minutes and will include one reversing manoeuvre and a short section of independent driving. You will be expected to drive safely but don’t worry if you make a mistake, just keep your focus on the road. It may not be a serious fault.
For more information watch the DVSA Driving test Video here.

Should I take Manual or Automatic Lessons?

Passing your test in a manual car will allow you to operate both manual and automatic vehicles. Passing the test in automatic will limit your licence to this category. An average student will take around 45 hours in a manual car but this can be less in an Automatic.
When making your decision you should consider your ability to coordinate and control the use of the gears in a manual vehicle. Some learners who struggle with these skills (including people diagnosed with dyspraxia) may choose to learn in an automatic as an easier option.
Automatic vehicles are becoming increasingly common with manufacturers like Toyota, Volvo and many others looking to sell half of their cars in this category.
At Ltest we will normally be able to offer you the choice of either manual or automatic through our franchised instructors.