Frequently Asked Questions
Here you will find a list of complete and very practical answers. Don’t forget, our experts are best placed to answer your questions.
Am I able to have driving lessons in my own/family or friends car?
Under certain circumstances, customers may want to receive lessons in their own/family vehicle. This is a good idea where the car will be used for a Driver’s Test. It is also a good idea when a learner has a new car and wishes to familiarise themselves with it prior to licensing. RMS Driving School is able to offer customers training in their vehicle, provided the vehicle is registered, roadworthy and comprehensively insured.
Prior to any training being conducted in the customer’s vehicle, the instructor should inspect the vehicle for its roadworthiness. The inspection should include, but is not limited to, a check of the following items;
- the registration label is valid, current, intact and displayed appropriately
- the vehicle is comprehensively insured and the customer’s insurance company is notified that it will be used by a driving instructor to conduct training in
- The tyres:
- are correctly inflated (air pressures must reflect the manufacturer’s recommendation as a minimum).
- have appropriate levels of tread
- are not damaged
- all indicators, headlights and brake lights are working
- seats and seat belts are in good working order and are not damaged or twisted
- any loose items in the cabin of the vehicle are stowed in the cargo (boot) area
- the windows and interior are clean
- the vehicle has sufficient petrol to last the course of the lesson (minimum requirement – a quarter of a tank)
Are automatic cars easier to drive?
Yes Automatic cars are easier to drive. Many people like automatic cars for their convenience as they are quiet straight forward to operate. there is no hassle of changing gears or using the clutch, takes away the burden of multi tasking with gears. It just requires a simple change of gear to D for drive and forget about moving the gear stick until you need to park or reverse.
Automatic gearboxes offer a smooth transition between gears, giving you a pleasant ride without any jerks.
During traffic hours an Automatic vehicle really helps as your not having to constantly use your clutch.
Automatic transmissions require less effort, so you can concentrate fully on navigating difficult junctions and other traffic safely.
With an Automatic vehicle you will have more control of your car as it takes away a lot of focus of shifting gears and pressing the clutch pedal.
How do I book my driving test?
When you are ready, your RMS Driving School Instructor can assist you in booking your test with DVSA.
Alternatively you can book a test directly with DVSA however there is no guarantee that your specific Instructor is available at that time, so arrange this with the driving instructor in advance.
How many lessons will I need to learn to drive?
This depends on the individual, as every student has different abilities, needs, levels of experience and different opportunities to practice. Be aware of anyone who “quotes” a number of lessons over the phone as it is impossible, without first assessing your current skill levels. Once one of our Driving Instructors have assessed your current skill level, ability and have ascertained how much practice you can obtain between lessons, we will be able to provide you with an accurate estimate.
Please keep in mind that you can never have too many lessons as the more professional training you have then the safer you will become prior to going solo.
Should I learn to drive in an automatic or manual car?
The decision to learn in an automatic transmission or a manual car depends upon many factors including personal choice, skill level, confidence and the cars you are able to practice in. It is important to be aware however, that if you gain your licence in an automatic car; you are not permitted to drive a manual until you successfully pass a practical test with DVSA, in a manual vehicle.
However RMS Driving school only specialize in teaching on Automatic vehicles, so that the unnecessary stress/anxiety is taken away and there is more focus on the actual drive. Ease and focus is the key.
When will I be ready to go for the practical test?
This timeframe will vary for absolutely every student. You are ready for the practical driving test when you can drive confidently and consistently without the help of your RMS Driving instructor. As you are getting closer, your Instructor will run you through a mock test to demonstrate what stage you are up to.
Why do I need to practice my driving?
Driving involves combining theory with physical skills and judgement. Practice is essential and the more practice you have, the more confidence you will gain for your practical test