Being able to get yourself from A to B is a huge advantage in life. Having your own little run-around causes you to become self-reliant, especially when it comes to getting to and from work every day. A full UK driving licence is a huge sell on job applications because it means you are more flexible, mobile and able to get to places that those without a licence wouldn't be able to. Plus, you'll never have to wait for the bus in the rain or stand squashed in like a sardine on the morning train. There'll be more job opportunities, plus you won't have to ask your mum for lifts anymore!

That sounds great, but where do I start?

The most common road to go down, no pun intended, is to hire an ADI (Approved Driving Instructor) to teach you. You will need to book a number of lessons with your instructor to learn how to operate a car, learn the Highway Code and generally become a decent driver.

There are numerous driving schools all over the country and there are bound to be a couple in your area. Lessons usually cost between £20 and £30 per lesson, which usually run for an hour at a time, though most schools tend do a discount for lessons booked in blocks.

It's also possible for a friend or family member to teach you but you must both be insured on the car you're learning in. They must also be over 21 and have held a full driving licence for at least three years.

 How long will it take?

That all depends on you! Everybody learns at their own pace, so it might be completely plausible that your mates passed after only ten lessons, whilst you're still struggling with the clutch after twenty. It's your driving instructor's responsibility to give you an accurate and truthful evaluation of your performance after each lesson and to offer advice. It can depend on the instructor too, as some will want to quickly get you passed (if you're ready) whereas others may prefer that put more hours in.

What car should I learn in?

The vast majority of learners are first taught in a small city car with a little engine and manual transmission but it all depends on who your instructor is. You do have the option to take your practical test in a car with an automatic gearbox, which tends to make operating the vehicle a lot easier (no stalling at the traffic lights!). However, this means you will only be licenced to drive automatic cars, whereas drivers who have learnt in a manual car are able to operate both.

What tests do I need to pass?

Theory test ­- The first test that you need to pass to be able to get your licence is the nationally-recognised theory test. The test is split up into two separate parts and is taken place on a computer at a participating test centre.

1. Multiple choice - You will be given a randomly chosen set of fifty questions with a choice of four answers. These questions will test you on your knowledge of road signs, speed limits, possible scenarios, stopping distances, rules and regulations, plus anything else found in the official Highway Code. Out of a possible 50, you must score at least 43 marks to pass.
2. Hazard perception - The next part of the test comes in the form of the hazard perception test. Following a short tutorial, you will be shown fourteen video clips that show one or two hazards that develop as you watch. You must click the mouse whenever you see something that would cause the driver the change speed or direction. You are awarded more points depending on how quickly you noticed the hazard. You must score 44 out of a possible 75 marks.

Practical test - This is the final hurdle you need to jump before you get your full licence. The practical test should take around forty minutes and, similarly to the theory test, it is split up into different sections.

1. Eyesight test - You will be asked to read the number plate of a parked car in the distance. This is simply so the examiner knows that your vision is good to enough to drive. If you need to wear glasses or contact lenses, you must have them in at all times whilst driving.
2. Show me, tell me - The examiner will next ask you a few randomly-selected questions, known as the 'show me, tell me' section. The questions will revolve around car maintenance, such as brake lights, oil levels and tyre pressure, and you may also be asked where you would find such tools in or on your car.
3. Test route - Next you will be asked to drive along a test route, designed for you to demonstrate all of the skills you should have learnt so far. You will be given clear directions by the examiner and you'll have to perform at least one maneuverer, such as parallel parking, reverse bay parking, reverse around a corner or turn in the road. You may also be asked to an emergency stop. If you cannot perform this maneuverer to test standards, you will fail. You are allowed up to 15 minor faults, but a major fault results in an automatic fail.
4. Independent driving - Candidates are expected to spend at least ten minutes driving with no instructions from the examiner. You will be asked to pull up in a safe area and you will either be shown a diagram or be asked to follow road signs to a specific location. You are being tested on your ability to drive unaided, not your navigation skills, so don't be afraid to ask for directions if you get lost.
5. Results - After around forty to forty-five minutes, you will be asked to drive back to the test centre where you will receive your evaluation results. The examiner will hand you a sheet that shows all of your mistakes (if any) you made whilst under test conditions, showing whether you passed or failed. Your driving instructor will be waiting for you at the centre. They will then take you home after the test and talk you over any problems you may have had.

I passed! What happens now?

Congratulations! Your examiner will ask you for your provisional licence and hand you a pass certificate. You will need this certificate to apply for your full licence so make sure you keep hold of it! You will also be given a copy of your test report so make sure to learn from any minor mistakes you made! Once you receive your licence (it should only take about three weeks) you are free to drive!

I failed! What happens now?

Your results sheet will tell you of all the faults you made so do your best to correct them before your next test! You can book your next test immediately after your fail, but you won't be able to take it for at least two weeks. There can be up to a three month wait on practical tests so make sure you get it booked as soon as possible! Try not to be discouraged or defeated. It's common knowledge that all the best drivers pass the second time!

Pass Plus

The Pass Plus course is an further crash course for new drivers and covers six modules that you will not have learnt before, such as driving at night and motorway driving. The Pass Plus course is spread over a total of six hours. You are free to take the lessons in any combination of ways (two three-hour slots, for example). Completing course usually results in a huge discount on your motor insurance, so it's definitely worth it in the long run. The course can be booked for around £150, but it ultimately depends on which school you sign up for.