Are you old enough to drive?
Driving is something most teenagers eagerly anticipate, and with good reason, as there`s nothing quite like the freedom of your first car. Unfortunately, for many new drivers the first couple of years behind the wheel can be fraught with difficulties. In fact, statistics from the Association of British Insurers released in 2008 reveal that 18-year-olds alone are involved in 50 collisions on the UK`s roads every day.
With so many accidents occurring among young people, it`s vital that new drivers are well prepared for the rigours of the road.
What do you need to be able to drive?
The legal driving age in the UK is 17. Although there have been calls to raise the age to 18, due to high accident rates, these plans have not been implemented. You can drive a moped with an engine capacity not exceeding 50cc aged 16, but for large vehicles over 3,500kg with a trailer up to 750kg or for minibuses and buses you must be at least 21.
Before you drive you must have a valid provisional driving licence and have access to a roadworthy vehicle, which is properly taxed and insured. You can apply for a provisional driving licence online via the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency`s (DVLA) website; in person or by post by completing the D1 application form at Post Offices. You will usually have to enclose documentation that confirms your identity, a fee of £50 and a passport style colour photograph. You cannot take a driving test (theory or practical) until your 17th birthday although you can apply up to three months in advance.
You must also be able to pass an eyesight test - reading a number plate at a distance of 20m (or 20.5m for old style plates).
The importance of professional tuition
Though it can be tempting to get driving instruction from friends or family, this is not advisable as they may have slipped into bad habits themselves and even if they are good drivers generally, they may make faults which would be spotted by an examiner. Approved driving instructors (ADI) must reach and maintain a high standard of instruction and are regularly monitored and assessed by the Driving Standards Agency. According to recent surveys, nine out of ten learners who pass both their theory and practical tests first time are taught by an approved driving instructor so get professional help to ensure you`re well prepared and well taught.
How to choose a driving school
Choosing a driving school is difficult because there are so many around - so how do you know which one is the best for you?
Here are some things to consider:
The right type of tuition for your needs. Most driving schools offer hourly lessons in which you meet with an instructor perhaps once a week and learn over a period of time. Alternatively, some schools offer intensive driving courses in which you learn over a block of time. These include: test rescue courses; mini-intensive courses; quick start (for new drivers); intensive courses; and residential courses.
Trained instructors. A fully qualified driving instructor will display a green certificate on the vehicle`s windscreen. A trainee driving instructor will display a pink certificate.
Testimonials and word of mouth. Ask the driving school for testimonials from previous pupils or ask friends for family for recommendations.
Tips for safer driving
Familiarise yourself with the Highway Code and stick to the rules of the road for your own safety and in consideration of others.
According to a comparison website there were 7,000 accidents on UK roads in 2007 as a result of speeding alone, so drive carefully, sensibly and responsibly. Be courteous to other road users and always take the weather conditions into consideration - remember to allow extra stopping distances for wet or icy weather.
Driving safely can save you cash too - most car insurance companies offer discounts to drivers that stay accident and claims free. |
