Welcome to our FAQ page. Whether you are looking for driving lessons in Bracknell, Frome, Ilminster, Reading, Trowbridge, Warminster, Westbury, Windsor, and surrounding areas, we have put together some of the most common questions our students and parents ask, when looking to book in lessons with our driving school.
Getting Started with Driving Lessons
- What do I need before I can start my first driving lesson?
To legally start learning to drive on public roads in the UK, you must:
- Be at least 17 years old.
- Hold a valid provisional driving licence. You can apply for this via the Gov.uk website.
- Be able to read a car number plate from 20 metres (with glasses or contact lenses if required).
- Do I need to pass my Theory Test before I start lessons?
No. At Blue School of Motoring, we actually recommend starting your practical lessons while studying for your theory. Our driving instructors can provide theory and hazard perception support during your lessons, and recommend some apps and books that can help you to prepare plus help you to see how the rules of the road apply in the real world.
- How do I book my first lesson?
You can book in seconds using our online contact form and then one of our instructors will make contact and book you in for your first lesson. We offer a “no stress” scheduling process where you can manage your lessons without needing to make multiple phone calls.
Lesson Structure & Pricing
- How much do driving lessons cost?
Prices vary slightly depending on your location and whether you choose manual or automatic tuition. We offer discounts for block bookings to help make learning to drive more affordable. Please visit our Prices & Offers page for the latest rates in your area.
- How long are the lessons?
To ensure maximum progress, our standard lesson duration is 2 hours. We find that 2-hour sessions allow for more time on the road, better retention of skills, and faster progression through the DVSA syllabus compared to 1-hour slots.
- Can you pick me up from school, work, or home?
Yes! Your Blue instructor can collect you from your home, workplace, or college, provided it is within our local service area. We can also end the lesson at a different location within reason—just discuss this with your instructor in advance. Area’s we cover
Training & Safety
- Are your instructors fully qualified?
Yes. All our instructors are DVSA-approved (ADI) and fully insured. They are also Enhanced DBS checked, ensuring a safe and professional environment for all learners, including teenagers and vulnerable adults.
- Do you offer automatic driving lessons?
Yes, we provide both manual and automatic driving lessons. When booking, please specify your preference so we can pair you with the right instructor and vehicle in your local area.
- How many lessons will I need to pass my test?
Everyone learns at a different pace. On average, the DVSA suggests around 45 hours of professional tuition. Some of our students are test-ready in 20 hours, while others take 60. Your instructor will use a Record of Progress (or the Total Drive app) to track your skills so you know exactly how close you are to being “test-ready.” More Information about Driving Lessons
Driving Tests & Beyond
- Will I use the instructor’s car for my driving test?
Most students prefer to use their instructor’s car for the practical test as it is the vehicle they are most comfortable in. We will also typically schedule a “warm-up” lesson immediately before your test time.
- Do you offer Pass Plus or Refresher lessons?
Yes. Once you pass, we offer Pass Plus courses to help you gain experience on motorways and in night driving (which can also lower your insurance). We also offer refresher lessons for full licence holders who haven’t driven in a while and want to regain their confidence.
