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Driving Lesson FAQs

These answers cover the questions learners commonly ask before starting or changing driving lessons.

Where a rule comes from GOV.UK or DVSA, we link to the official source rather than rewriting legal guidance from memory.

Jump to

  • Starting lessons
  • Automatic driving
  • Lesson planning
  • Theory & practical test
  • Booking with LPD

Still have a question?

Send it on WhatsApp and we’ll reply as soon as we can.

WhatsApp LPD — 07783 543600

Starting Lessons

What do I need before I start driving lessons?

You need a valid provisional driving licence and you must meet the legal requirements to learn to drive. Bring your licence details as requested by the instructor and wear any glasses or contact lenses you need for driving.

How old do I need to be?

Most people can start learning to drive a car at 17. GOV.UK lists limited exceptions relating to qualifying disability benefits.

Do I need to pass my theory test before my first lesson?

No. You can take practical lessons before passing the theory test. You do need to pass the theory test before booking the ordinary practical car test.

What should I bring to my first lesson?

Bring your provisional licence as requested, any glasses/contact lenses you need, suitable footwear and any information LPD has asked you to provide. [CLIENT INPUT: confirm LPD’s licence-check procedure] Beginner lessons →

What happens on the first automatic lesson?

The exact session depends on your previous experience. A complete beginner may begin with the seating position, mirrors, controls, moving off, stopping and basic observations in an appropriate location. Someone with previous experience may start with an assessment of current skills.

Automatic Driving

Is automatic easier than manual?

Automatic cars remove the need to operate a clutch and make manual gear changes, so there are fewer control tasks to manage. That does not remove the need to learn observations, judgement, safe speed, positioning, planning, hazards and all the other skills required for safe driving and the practical test. Automatic lessons →

Can I drive a manual car after passing in an automatic?

Not on an automatic-only licence. GOV.UK states that you need to pass a practical driving test in a manual car to upgrade an automatic-only car licence. You do not need another theory test for that upgrade.

Is the practical test different in an automatic?

GOV.UK states that the driving test is the same core test for manual and automatic cars.

Can I switch from manual lessons to automatic?

Yes. Tell LPD what you have already covered so the instructor can assess your current driving rather than assume you are starting from zero.

Lesson Planning

How many lessons will I need?

There is no legal minimum. Learners progress at different rates. Previous experience, practice outside lessons, confidence, lesson frequency and how quickly you develop consistent safe decisions can all affect the number of hours needed. See prices →

Are one-hour or two-hour lessons better?

There is no universal answer. Longer lessons can allow more uninterrupted practice and access to a wider range of roads, while shorter sessions may suit some learners’ concentration, schedule or budget. LPD recommends a format based on you rather than claiming one duration is always better.

Can I practise with family or friends?

Yes, provided all legal supervision, insurance and vehicle requirements are met. Use GOV.UK’s supervising-a-learner guidance before private practice.

Can a learner drive on the motorway?

In England, Scotland and Wales, a learner car driver can use a motorway only when accompanied by an approved driving instructor in a dual-control car. Motorway tuition is optional and the instructor decides when the learner is ready. Motorway lessons →

Theory and Practical Test

What is in the theory test?

The car theory test has two parts: multiple-choice questions and hazard perception. You take them as one test and must pass both parts.

What happens in the practical driving test?

The current car test includes an eyesight check, “show me, tell me” questions, general driving including independent driving, and a reversing exercise. Test preparation →

Does the practical test include motorway driving?

No. GOV.UK states that the practical car test does not include motorway driving.

Can my instructor book my practical test for me?

Under the 2026 booking rules, the learner must book their own car practical test through GOV.UK. Discuss readiness with your instructor first and use the instructor reference number if appropriate so you can check availability.

Can I learn test routes?

Official driving-test routes are not published. Good preparation builds the ability to drive safely and independently on unfamiliar roads.

What if I fail my practical test?

Use the test result to identify the faults that need attention. Test-preparation lessons can then focus on the underlying skills rather than simply repeating the same route.

Booking with LPD

What areas does LPD cover?

LPD is based in Southampton, SO18 4HT. Send your postcode to 07783 543600 and LPD will confirm whether the pickup location is covered. [VERIFIED AREA LIST TO BE ADDED] Areas we cover →

How much do lessons cost?

See the Prices page. [INSERT VERIFIED PRICES]

How long is a lesson?

[CLIENT INPUT REQUIRED]

Can I be picked up from home, college or work?

[CLIENT INPUT: define pickup policy and geographic restrictions]

What is LPD’s cancellation policy?

[CLIENT INPUT: insert summary] See the Terms and Conditions.

Does LPD offer evening or weekend lessons?

[CLIENT INPUT REQUIRED]

Can I use the LPD car for my practical test?

[CLIENT INPUT REQUIRED]

How do I contact LPD?

Learn · Pass · Drive

Still Have a Question?

WhatsApp LPD on 07783 543600. It helps to include:

  • your postcode,
  • whether you have driven before,
  • whether you have passed your theory test,
  • whether you already have a practical test booked,
  • and the days/times that usually suit you.