Useful Resources
Getting Started
It is paramount that you have a provisional licence before you can drive on the road. If you do not have a provisional licence then you need to apply for one.
Apply online
You can apply for your first provisional driving licence by using the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency's (DVLA) secure and easy to use online service.
* Apply online for a first provisional driving licence
Apply in person or by post
You can apply for your provisional driving licence by completing the D1 application form that is available from the DVLA form ordering service or Post Office branches. You will also need to enclose original documentation confirming your identity, a passport style colour photograph and the fee of £45.00. Send your completed application and payment to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AD or you may be able to use the premium checking service.
* DVLA form ordering service (opens new window)
* Identity documents and photograph criteria
* Premium checking service
Your driving licence will arrive to you within three weeks of receiving your application. It might take longer if we have to check on your health or personal details. You will need to wait for your new licence to arrive before driving. When you receive your provisional licence you are able to start learning to drive. Initially you will be classified as a learner driver and will be required to pass a driving test to become a qualified driver.
Have an Eye Test
A good time to have an eye test is just before you start learning to drive. It is useful to mention to the optometrist that you are about to start driving. They may suggest that you wear glasses or contact lenses to assist your vision; this ensuring safety for both yourself and other road users.
When you take your practical driving test one of the first things your examiner will do is to give you a test before you get into the car. They will point out a vehicle and ask you to read the number plate. You must satisfy the examiner that in good daylight you can read a vehicle number plate with letters 79.4mm (3.1in) high at a minimum distance of 20.5 metres (about 67 feet). Number plates with a narrower font, such as the new style number plates introduced during 2001, should be read from a distance of 20 metres (66 feet). If you need glasses or contact lenses to read the number plate, that is OK. However, you must wear them during your test and whenever you drive.
Apply online
You can apply for your first provisional driving licence by using the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency's (DVLA) secure and easy to use online service.
* Apply online for a first provisional driving licence
Apply in person or by post
You can apply for your provisional driving licence by completing the D1 application form that is available from the DVLA form ordering service or Post Office branches. You will also need to enclose original documentation confirming your identity, a passport style colour photograph and the fee of £45.00. Send your completed application and payment to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AD or you may be able to use the premium checking service.
* DVLA form ordering service (opens new window)
* Identity documents and photograph criteria
* Premium checking service
Your driving licence will arrive to you within three weeks of receiving your application. It might take longer if we have to check on your health or personal details. You will need to wait for your new licence to arrive before driving. When you receive your provisional licence you are able to start learning to drive. Initially you will be classified as a learner driver and will be required to pass a driving test to become a qualified driver.
Have an Eye Test
A good time to have an eye test is just before you start learning to drive. It is useful to mention to the optometrist that you are about to start driving. They may suggest that you wear glasses or contact lenses to assist your vision; this ensuring safety for both yourself and other road users.
When you take your practical driving test one of the first things your examiner will do is to give you a test before you get into the car. They will point out a vehicle and ask you to read the number plate. You must satisfy the examiner that in good daylight you can read a vehicle number plate with letters 79.4mm (3.1in) high at a minimum distance of 20.5 metres (about 67 feet). Number plates with a narrower font, such as the new style number plates introduced during 2001, should be read from a distance of 20 metres (66 feet). If you need glasses or contact lenses to read the number plate, that is OK. However, you must wear them during your test and whenever you drive.
How many driving lessons will I need?
The answer is always difficult but will depend on any road experience you already have, cycling and motorcycle experience can help but above all - it's the dedication you give to your lessons and any aptitude you may have. DSA state that an average person requires 45 driving instructor training plus 22 hours private tuition. Some books believe that a two hour lesson for every year of age gives a good guide but we at ADS will help you progress as quickly and safely as possible and will continually monitor your progress and keep you in touch with your personal progression sheet.
What course will suit me?
Whether you want one or two lesson a week or an intensive course - ADS will arrange to carry out a driving assessment and talk through the various options available. Your course can be as intensive as you wish (subject to availability). Learning to drive is different for everyone so rather than sell you a set package we'll tailor one to suit you.
Tailored Lessons
Learning to drive is a life skill and people learn at an individual pace, so we tailor our training to suit each individual. Our lessons are structured in progressive stages to help you reach and surpass the DSA driving test standard, helping you achieve a first time pass.
Single lessons
Taking one or two driving lessons a week is the traditional way of learning to drive. The advantage is that there is time to practise in between sessions and steady progress is made. We follow the DSAs recommended syllabus and pictorial aids are used during lessons to assist understanding. We offer free support to practice partners on request, to assist private learning. We provide a local door-to-door service - but it doesn't have to be the same door! We can pick you up from work and drop you off at home, for example. We recommend that complete novices have one-hour lessons initially because the early stages of learning to drive require extreme concentration! More experienced learner drivers often choose to have 1hr or 2hr lessons because they tend to be more beneficial and productive as they settle into the driving better and routes can be set for further afield.
Semi-intensive course:
This is an ideal course for those who wish to take a fast track to test standard. The number of hours of training per week will be agreed according to your needs and availablility.
Pass Plus course:
New drivers who go on to complete the Pass Plus course can get cheaper car insurance. Many leading insurers offer discounts equivalent to one year's no claims bonus. There is no test involved - you just have to successfully complete six driver training modules of at least one hour each which cover driving in town, out of town, in all weathers, at night, on dual carriageways and on motorways. When your instructor is happy you have reached the required level in each topic, you will receive a certificate from the DSA which you can use to receive your insurance discount.
Refresher driving lessons:
If you have had a break from driving or just wish to update your skills and re-establish your confidence on the road, we can help. During an initial session we can assess your driving and establish which areas need attention and then structure a course to cater for your needs. Often students request help with roundabouts, motorways, town centre driving, lane changing, parking and manoeuvering.
Advanced driving lessons:
Learn techniques which will allow you to make good progress without breaking the speed limit as well as helping you to drive more smoothly, efficiently and safely. Your driving will be more cost effective, your passengers will certainly notice the difference and if you pass an advanced driving test, you can get cheaper car insurance.
Taxi test lessons:
We can prepare you for the DSA taxi driving test which must be passed before you can be issued with a taxi licence by the district council. To prepare a candidate for the test, we would normally book a two-hour session in order to assess their driving and explain the requirements of the test. If further lessons are necessary, we can then tailor a course to re-establish good driving technique.
The answer is always difficult but will depend on any road experience you already have, cycling and motorcycle experience can help but above all - it's the dedication you give to your lessons and any aptitude you may have. DSA state that an average person requires 45 driving instructor training plus 22 hours private tuition. Some books believe that a two hour lesson for every year of age gives a good guide but we at ADS will help you progress as quickly and safely as possible and will continually monitor your progress and keep you in touch with your personal progression sheet.
What course will suit me?
Whether you want one or two lesson a week or an intensive course - ADS will arrange to carry out a driving assessment and talk through the various options available. Your course can be as intensive as you wish (subject to availability). Learning to drive is different for everyone so rather than sell you a set package we'll tailor one to suit you.
Tailored Lessons
Learning to drive is a life skill and people learn at an individual pace, so we tailor our training to suit each individual. Our lessons are structured in progressive stages to help you reach and surpass the DSA driving test standard, helping you achieve a first time pass.
Single lessons
Taking one or two driving lessons a week is the traditional way of learning to drive. The advantage is that there is time to practise in between sessions and steady progress is made. We follow the DSAs recommended syllabus and pictorial aids are used during lessons to assist understanding. We offer free support to practice partners on request, to assist private learning. We provide a local door-to-door service - but it doesn't have to be the same door! We can pick you up from work and drop you off at home, for example. We recommend that complete novices have one-hour lessons initially because the early stages of learning to drive require extreme concentration! More experienced learner drivers often choose to have 1hr or 2hr lessons because they tend to be more beneficial and productive as they settle into the driving better and routes can be set for further afield.
Semi-intensive course:
This is an ideal course for those who wish to take a fast track to test standard. The number of hours of training per week will be agreed according to your needs and availablility.
Pass Plus course:
New drivers who go on to complete the Pass Plus course can get cheaper car insurance. Many leading insurers offer discounts equivalent to one year's no claims bonus. There is no test involved - you just have to successfully complete six driver training modules of at least one hour each which cover driving in town, out of town, in all weathers, at night, on dual carriageways and on motorways. When your instructor is happy you have reached the required level in each topic, you will receive a certificate from the DSA which you can use to receive your insurance discount.
Refresher driving lessons:
If you have had a break from driving or just wish to update your skills and re-establish your confidence on the road, we can help. During an initial session we can assess your driving and establish which areas need attention and then structure a course to cater for your needs. Often students request help with roundabouts, motorways, town centre driving, lane changing, parking and manoeuvering.
Advanced driving lessons:
Learn techniques which will allow you to make good progress without breaking the speed limit as well as helping you to drive more smoothly, efficiently and safely. Your driving will be more cost effective, your passengers will certainly notice the difference and if you pass an advanced driving test, you can get cheaper car insurance.
Taxi test lessons:
We can prepare you for the DSA taxi driving test which must be passed before you can be issued with a taxi licence by the district council. To prepare a candidate for the test, we would normally book a two-hour session in order to assess their driving and explain the requirements of the test. If further lessons are necessary, we can then tailor a course to re-establish good driving technique.
Theory :
 What's involved??
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Since July 1996 all learner drivers must take and pass a theory test before booking a practical test. The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) introduced the theory test specifically to help improve user understanding and promote better road safety in light of rising car accidents. Additionally, the Hazard Perception Test was introduced from November 2002 and was incorporated to aid hazard awareness aimed at new drivers to further promote road safety.
The theory test explained The theory test encompasses two elements; first the multiple choice part and secondly the hazard perception part. You need to pass both parts to pass the theory test. Once you have passed the theory test you can then apply to take your practical driving test. Taking your theory test The theory test is made up of two parts; the multiple choice part and the hazard perception part. The multiple choice part is delivered using a touch screen computer and the hazard perception part records your responses through the use of a computer mouse button. It is essential to pass both parts in order to pass the theory test. If you pass one part and fail the other you will fail the entire test, and you will need to re-sit both stages again. The questions in each multiple choice test vary according to the category of vehicle you are hoping to obtain a licence for, ie a motorcycle theory test will contain specific questions that do not appear in any other test. For the hazard perception test there are no separate versions for different vehicles, each vehicle category takes the same test, however the pass mark is different for different categories of tests. Part one - multiple choice Before the test starts you will be given instructions on how the test works. You can also choose to go through a practice session of the multiple choice questions to get used to the layout of the test. At the end of the practice session the actual test will commence. A question and several answer options will appear onscreen and you have to select the correct answer to the question by touching the screen. Some questions may require more than one answer. You will be asked 50 questions in 57 minutes and the pass mark is 43 out of 50. You can navigate between questions and 'flag' questions that you want to come back to later in the test. After the multiple choice part you can choose to have a break of up to three minutes before the hazard perception part starts. Part two hazard perception After the break you will view a short tutorial video clip about how the hazard perception part works. The hazard perception part is also delivered on a computer. You respond by clicking a button on the mouse. You will be presented with a series of 14 video clips which feature every day road scenes. In each clip there will be at least one developing hazard, but one of the clips will feature two developing hazards. To achieve a high score you will need to respond to the developing hazard during the early part of its development. The maximum you can attain on each hazard is five. You will not be able to review your answers to the hazard perception test; as on the road, you will only have one chance to respond to the developing hazard. The pass mark for the hazard perception part of the theory test is 44 out of 75. |
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At the Test Centre
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You should arrive at the test centre in plenty of time so that you aren't rushed. At reception you will be expected to show both parts of your valid driving licence (the photo card and the paper counterpart). You should also bring your appointment letter or booking number. If you don't bring the correct documents with you on the day, you will not be permitted to take your test thus loseing your fee.
Following registration at reception you will be led through to the test room. You may not take anything into the room with you; all personal items must be stored in the lockers provided. Once you are in the test room you may not talk to or distract other candidates. The computer screen will display your name and the category of test you are taking. If you have any problems during the theory test, you should raise your hand to attract the attention of the test invigilator. At the End of the Test Upon completion of the hazard perception stage of the theory test you will be invited to answer a number of customer survey questions. You do not have to answer the questions if you do not want to, and any information given is anonymous and confidential. The survey questions do not affect the result of the test. When you have finished the test you may leave the examination room. Once you have left the room, you will not be allowed to enter it again. Collect any belongings you may have placed in your locker and your result will be given to you by the centre staff shortly thereafter. |
Practise Theory Click Here |
Practical Test
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What's Involved?
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The driving test was initially introduced in the United Kingdom in 1935. In recent years several changes have been made to the test designed to help make people become safer drivers
Your driving test will start with an eyesight check and some vehicle safety questions. You will then start your practical driving test which will include some specific manoeuvres. The driving test is straightforward and has been designed to see if you: * can drive safely * know The Highway Code and can demonstrate this through your driving The driving part of your test will last about 40 minutes. Throughout the test your examiner will be looking for an overall safe standard of driving, including when you are carrying out the set exercises. You are allowed up to 15 driving faults and still pass the test (16 or more results in failure). However, if you commit one serious or dangerous fault you will fail the test. What will the test include? The test will include an eyesight check (if you fail this, your test will not continue). The eyesight test requires you to read a number plate that is a certain distance away. For more information about the eyesight check please use the 'Driving eyesight requirements' link below. Upon completion of the eyesight test you will be asked two vehicle safety check questions. You will then be examined on your general driving and on two reversing exercises. The * reversing exercises will be chosen from: * reversing around a corner * turning in the road * reverse parking You may also be asked to carry out an emergency stop exercise. Driving eyesight requirements Vehicle safety questions These are basic safety checks that a driver should carry out to ensure the vehicle is safe for use. Although some checks may involve the candidate in opening the bonnet to identify where fluid levels would be checked, pupils will not be asked to touch a hot engine or physically check fluid levels. As vehicle technology advances, more and more vehicles are being equipped with electronic diagnostic systems, which inform the driver of the state of the engine fluid levels and tyre pressures. It will be acceptable for a candidate to refer to the vehicle information system (if fitted) when answering questions on fluid levels or tyre pressures.,br> Candidates will be asked two questions, one 'show me' and one 'tell me'. One or both questions answered incorrectly will result in one driving fault being recorded. Download vehicle safety questions for car tests (PDF, 50K) Help with PDF files What happens during the test? During the driving test the examiner will give you directions which you should follow. Test routes are designed to be as uniform as possible and will include a range of typical road and traffic conditions. During the test, the examiner will ask you to carry out set exercises. Throughout the test you should drive in the manner your instructor has taught you. If you should make a mistake, don't worry about it, it might be a less serious driving fault and may not affect your result. The examiner will be looking for an overall safe standard of driving.,br> You can make up to 15 driving faults and still pass the test (16 or more results in failure). However, if you commit one serious or dangerous fault you will fail the test. If at any time your examiner considers you to be a danger to other road users your test will be stopped. You are allowed to take someone with you on the test, this person must be over 16 years old and cannot take any part in the test. After the practical test When the driving test is over, the examiner will inform you whether have been successful or failed. You can request feedback on your test from the examiner, who will then go through your performance during the test. If you pass... |
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On The Day
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Well your big day has finally arrived! We will pick you up about 1 hour before your test to commence a final "brush up" of your driving skills before arriving at the test centre in plenty of time for you to prepare yourself and ask any last minute questions.
What to Bring You should make sure that you bring the following documents with you to the test centre. Failure to do so may mean you test is cancelled and you may lose your fee. * The booking letter * Your signed provisional driving licence and signed paper counterpart * Your theory test pass certificate If you are the holder of the old style paper licence then you will need to bring your passport as photographic proof of identity. * The theory test pass certificate * Your appointment letter * Both parts of your photo card licence. If you do not take both parts of your licence your test will not take place and you will lose your fee * if you have an old-style paper licence, you must take your signed driver licence and a valid passport - from 1 November 2005 no other form of photographic identification will be accepted If you misplace your licence, you must apply for a replacement from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), which could take up to 15 days. If this happens, you may have to rearrange your test. Remember: * no licence * no photo * no test, and * you will lose your fee! At the Time of Your Test The Examiner will call your name and ask you to sign the insurance declaration. This gives the Examiner the opportunity to check you signature against your provisional driving licence and validate you theory test certificate. If you do not hold a new style licence, the Examiner will ask for your passport to confirm your identity. If you are exempt from wearing a seatbelt on medical grounds then you should show your exemption certificate. To the car When the formalities are over the Examiner will introduce himself and ask you to lead the way to your car and identify it. It is at this point that a You're Off ! Check the handbrake is applied, the car is in neutral and start the car. Remember your training and drive as you have been taught! Give the Examiner a demonstration of your skills. During the drive the Examiner will be recording any minor driving faults on the test form (DL25). You may commit up to 15 of these and pass however one serious or dangerous fault will result in failure. You will be asked to carry out 2 of the following 4 manoeuvres: * Reverse around a corner * Turn in the road * Reverse parking * Reverse into a parking bay at the test centre You may also be asked to carry out an emergency stop. Your browser may not support display of this image. At the End of the Test When the driving test is over, the examiner will tell you whether you have passed or failed. If passed, you will be given the pass certificate (DSA10) which will need signing and sending to the DVLA along with your provisional driving licence in order for your full licence to be issued. If you hold a licence issued after 1st March 2004, then the Examiner will keep both parts of your provisional driving licence and forward them to the DVLA on your behalf. Should you be unsuccessful then you can request feedback on your test from the examiner, who will then go through your performance during the test. You will be asked if you wish your instructor to listen to the Examiners review. We strongly recommended that you do allow this.Your browser may not support display of this image. Useful Tips There is no magic formula for passing your practical driving test, but here is some good advice which will certainly be helpful: * Get a good nights sleep before the test * Dress comfortably, make yourself feel good * Arrive in plenty of time You should be present in the test centre at least ten minutes before the appointed time of your test. If you are late the test will be cancelled, and the fee will be forfeited. * Listen carefully to the examiner's instructions, repeat them in your head, act on them in good time, and ask for them to be repeated if necessary * Give the examiner a relaxed smooth drive * If you make a decision that you think could be misjudged by the examiner, explain your reasons while you drive * If you come across a new situation, hold back and assess it carefully before you decide to proceed - and be prepared to change your decision if necessary * And above all, enjoy the experience! |
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Show Me/Tell Me Questions
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Since September 2003, candidates for the practical driving test are required to answer 2 vehicle safety check questions. Vehicle Safety Checks have always been part of the officially recommended syllabus for learning to drive.
Give yourself a flying start on your test and get the show me, tell me' questions spot on! Learning what's required isn't hard and you can give your confidence a boost by being well prepared All the questions and answers are listed below, along with photo's to help you to identify the relevent parts of the car. All ADS pupils approaching test standard will be given a handout with full details and will have the chance for plenty of practice . . . Q1. Open the bonnet, identify where you would check the engine coolant level and tell me how you would check the engine has the correct level. Identify the coolant tank and check the min/max markings. If the coolant is below the min mark then more coolant will need to be added. To do this, unscrew the cap and pour in coolant until the max mark is reached. Q2. Open the bonnet, identify where the brake fluid reservoir is and tell me how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid. Identify the brake fluid reservoir and check the fluid level against the min/max levels. Q3. Show me/explain how you would check that the power assisted steering is working before starting a journey. If the steering becomes heavy the steering may be faulty. Before starting a journey two simple checks can be made. 1) Gentle pressure on the steering wheel, maintained whilst the engine is started, should result in slight but noticeable movement as the system begins to operate. 2) Turning the steering wheel after just moving off will give an immediate indication that the power assisted steering is functioning correctly. Q4. Show me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car. (I can assist you, if you need to switch the ignition on, please don't start the engine). Activate the brake pedal and make use of reflections in garage doors etc to see if the brake lights come on or ask someone to help. Q5. Open the bonnet identify, where you would check the engine oil level and tell me how you would check that the engine has enough oil. Identify the dipstick, pull it out and check the oil level against the min/max markings. Q6. Show me how you would check that the horn is working (off road only). Press the horn and listen (turn on ignition if necessary). Q7. Show me how you would check that the brake lights are working on this car. (I can assist you, if you need to switch the ignition on, please don't start the engine). Operate brake pedal, make use of reflections in windows, garage doors, etc, or ask someone to help. (may need to switch ignition on, prompt not to start engine) Q8. Tell me how you would check that the brakes are working before starting a journey. As you move off check the brakes. They should not feel spongy and the car should not pull to one side. Q9. Tell me how you would check that the headlights and tail lights are working. Turn on lights (turn ignition if necessary), walk around car and check that the lights are on. Q10. Show me how you would check that the direction indicators are working correctly. Activate the indicators or hazard warning lights and walk around the car to see if all the indicators are working correctly. Q11. Tell me where you would find the information for the recommended tyre pressures for this car and how tyre pressures should be checked. Information will be found using the car manufacturer's manual. Check the tyre pressures by using a reliable pressure gauge when the tyres are cold. Don't forget the spare and remember to refit the valve caps. Q12. Tell me how you would check the tyres to show that they have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road. A safe tyre will have no cuts or bulges. The tread depth should be at least 1.6mm across the central 3/4s of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference. Q13. Show me how you would check the parking brake for excessive wear. Apply the parking brake. When it is fully applied it should secure itself. Q14. Tell me how you make sure your head restraint is correctly adjusted so it provides the best protection in the event of a crash. The head restraint should be adjusted so the rigid part of the head restraint is at least as high as the eye or top of the ears, and as close to the back of the head as is comfortable. N.B. Some restraints might not be adjustable. Q15. Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers . Operate control to wash and wipe windscreen (turn ignition on if necessary. Q16. Show me how you would set the demister controls to clear all the windows effectively, this should include both front and rear screens. Set all relevant controls including; fan, temperature, air direction / source and heated screen to clear windscreen and windows. Engine does not have to be started for this demonstration. Q17. Tell me how you would know if there was a problem with your anti lock braking system. Warning light should illuminate if there is a fault with the anti lock braking system. Q18. Show me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam and explain how you would know the main beam is on whilst inside the car. Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main beam warning light. Q19. Show me how you would switch on the rear fog light(s) and explain when you would use it/them. (No need to exit vehicle |
Pass Plus
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What is Pass plus?
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Pass plus is a training course specifically aimed at new drivers. Statistics show that new drivers are more likely to have an accident in the first two years after passing their test due to a lack of driving experience - this is where Pass Plus comes in! The course aims to build upon your newly acquired driving skills and knowledge.
What is Pass plus? Pass plus is a training course specifically aimed at new drivers, designed by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) with the help of insurers and the driving instruction industry. Pass plus will build upon your existing skills and knowledge, it will teach you how to anticipate, plan for and deal with all kinds of hazards, and can help you to become more confident on the roads Pass plus is made up of six practical modules which include: • driving in town • driving in all weathers • driving on rural roads • driving at night • driving on dual carriageways • driving on motorways Anyone who holds a full UK licence is eligible to take part in the scheme. You will not have to take a test at the end of the course but you will be continually assessed. You must successfully complete all the modules in the course to an achieved or exceeded standard. When you have successfully completed the course, you are advised to check available discounts offered by the insurance companies taking part in the scheme. The amount you save will depend on the company you choose, you may even save more than you paid for the course. |
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Pass Plus modules
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Town driving The first module begins with an introduction to PASS PLUS, explaining the course aims and the skills and knowledge to be covered. The second part of the module is a practical session, covering the different features of driving in town, such as complex junctions and public transport. You'll concentrate on * observation * judgement and awareness * eye contact * consideration for vulnerable road users * being cautious but not over cautious, and * keeping space around your car All-weather driving As much of this module as possible should be covered in a practical session. You'll focus on correct speed, safe stopping distances, plus seeing and being seen in • rain • sleet, snow and ice • mist and fog, and • bright sunshine You will also look at skidding • what causes them • how to prevent them • correcting slow-speed skids • braking on poor surfaces, and • aquaplaning Driving out of town This module is taken on country roads and will look at the main differences between town driving and country driving. * observing the road ahead * making progress safely * bends, hills, uneven roads and dead ground * keeping a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, and * safe overtaking It focuses particularly on being aware and showing consideration for * pedestrians, horse riders and animals in the road * farm entrances * slow moving vehicles Night driving This module encompasses the essential aspects of driving in the dark and also at dawn and dusk. You'll learn about the importance of the correct use of headlights adjusting to the dark judging speed and distance the correct use of lights and keeping them clean dealing with dazzle road users who can be hard to see, and parking issues Driving on dual carriageways Dual carriageways are high speed, multi-lane roads where the two carriageways are separated by a central reservation. They demand particular skills, including * effective observation, using your mirrors and checking blind spots * judgement and planning ahead * the need for a safe separation distance * joining and leaving a dual carriageway * overtaking and lane discipline, and * the correct use of speed Driving on Motorways This module is a practical session where possible. If there is no motorway nearby, it will have to be covered in theory: you should drive on a motorway as soon as you can afterwards so you can put the theory into practice. The topics covered include * planning journeys in advance * joining and leaving a motorway, using slip roads * safe speeds in different circumstances * effective observation all around your vehicle * signs, signals and markings * overtaking and lane discipline * courtesy to other road users * motorway fatigue * breakdown procedures * use of lights, including hazard warning lights * debris on the carriageway * crosswinds. |