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. Safe Drive 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?
When you are ready, your Safe Drive Instructor will arrange your test for you on payment of the Transport Booking Fee. Alternatively you can call our Central Booking Office, provide us with your learners permit number and payment details and we will arrange your test. You can book a test directly with Transport, however there is no guarantee that your specific Instructor is available at that time.
How do I book my driving test?
When you are ready, your Safe Drive Instructor will arrange your test for you on payment of the Transport Booking Fee. Alternatively you can call our Central Booking Office, provide us with your learners permit number and payment details and we will arrange your test. You can book a test directly with Transport, however there is no guarantee that your specific Instructor is available at that time.
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 in city 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 City Transport, in a manual vehicle.
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 Safe Drive 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 less number of professional driving lessons you may require to be at the standard required to pass the test. Practice is vital and the requirement is that a new driver has 100 hours of log book experience prior to sitting for their practical driving test.