FAQs
Why can I never get an answer when I call your number?
We do not answer calls during driving lessons. If you leave us a message (voicemail or text) during the week, we will do our best to contact you within 24hrs.
Please only call during the hours specified on the Contact Us page. We cannot guarantee messages left outside of these hours will be received, therefore you may not get a response.
You can contact us 24hrs a day via email or leave us a message on our Facebook page.
Why are your pass rates so high compared to other driving schools?
We won’t let you take a driving test unless you are capable of driving in today’s demanding environments and therefore capable of passing a test. You’ll have to prove your ready by passing one of our mock tests. Being fully prepared for your test will give you that added confidence, meaning you’ll feel less nervous and far more likely to succeed first time. Your test is just as important to us as it is to you. We do not see it as a paid lunch break as we will sit in the back of the car during your test (unless you don’t want us to).
Why do you sit in the back during my driving test?
There are a few reasons for this,
- It enables us to see first hand what routes are used and how the examiners mark. This means that during your lessons leading up to your test we can give you accurate information as to what will be asked of you on the day. It also enables us to give you mock tests which are exactly like the real thing.
- If you’re not successful first time and do not understand the feedback given by the examiner then we can advise you as we’ll have seen exactly what happened. If needed we’ll take you straight back to the place where the fault occurred to talk you through it and help you to understand better what happened.
- If you are not happy with any aspect of the test or you feel the examiner was unfair then we can help you to put this point across.
I’ve had bad experiences with other instructors, how do I know you are any good?
We would not employ anyone who did not meet our high expectations of customer service. All our instructors have been fully trained to reach DSA standards and they strive to replicate the high level of service which we pride ourselves on. Sophie has been graded into the top group of driving instructors within the UK by the DSA, which only 6% of all instructors achieve.
If in the unlikely instance there is anything you are unhappy about with regards to your lessons please let us know, we cannot help if we don’t know there is a problem.
How much is it to hire a car for the practical driving test?
The practical driving test is the cost of your normal two hour booking rate. We’ll pick you up one hour before the test and help you to “warm up” and get rid of any last minute nerves. The driving test will last approximately 35-40 minutes and the final 20 minutes will be completing the paper work for your full drivers licence and driving you home!
Can I book one of your cars at short notice for a driving test?
We don’t lend our cars to anyone we haven’t seen drive before so if you have not learnt with us, you would need to book in for a lesson before your test so we can assess your driving. (Booking this assessment drive does not guarantee one of our cars for the test, please see our booking terms for more details).
I’m really nervous about learning to drive, what if I crash?
We know how you feel! Everyone is nervous the first time they get into the driving seat of a car so we will try and help you relax as much as possible.
A lot of time and effort goes into planning each lesson and the routes we use to make sure you are never in a situation which you cannot deal with. We will never shout at you and we are prepared to go over things as many times as needed in order to help you become a safe and confident driver.
All our cars are fully comprehensively insured and fitted with dual controls.
How many lessons will I need to pass my test?
We get asked this question a lot and truth is, without seeing you drive it is impossible to tell. Everyone learns at different speeds (no pun intended!). We encourage private practice and can set you tasks to practice in your own car. We would never make you pay for any lessons which where not necessary to your learning experience.
Do you run intensive courses?
No. Learning to drive is a lot harder than you may think. It takes a lot of concentration and most people find that any more than 2 hours at a time is not productive; you lose the ability to retain information, and mistakes are more likely when you are tired. It’s also a serious responsibility to be behind the wheel of a car, you need to be alert at all times as people’s lives are at risk if you drive when fatigued.
You wouldn’t expect the most advanced driver to drive for 8 hours a day everyday for 2 weeks so how do you expect to do this as a learner driver?!
Do you give lessons in the evenings and weekends?
Yes, we’ll always try to schedule lessons around you. But please understand this may not always be possible during busier periods, but we’ll always do our best. Children/babies are welcome to sit in the back if childcare is an issue for you. You will need to bring your own child seat.
Will I be charged if I cancel a lesson?
We appreciate that from time you time you may not be able to fulfil a lesson you have arranged with us. That’s why if you give us less than 24hrs notice we’ll send out a text message to all of our other learners and ask if anybody wants to take that time slot. If they do, there is no charge to you.
If we cannot get anyone to take the lesson, then yes you will be charged.