Driving is a useful skill that may provide you access to a wide range of options, whether for independence, career, or enjoyment. However, learning to drive may be difficult and expensive if you don’t have the right driving school or teacher to guide you.
In the UK, there are numerous driving schools and instructors, but not every one of them is equal. Some people may provide low costs but sacrifice quality or safety. Although they may have positive evaluations, some may not fit your needs or learning style. Some could even be dishonest or unqualified.
How then do you choose a driving school that will help you pass your driving test and grow into a confident and safe driver? Here are some recommendations to aid with your decision-making.
.
Check if the driving school or instructor is approved by the DVSA
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) oversees driving requirements and tests in the UK. Additionally, they certify driving instructors who adhere to a set of requirements for competence and professionalism.
On their website4, you may locate driving instructors who have been authorised by the DVSA. If they disclose their grade, which goes from A (the highest) to B (the lowest), you may also verify it. If a driving teacher is not mentioned on their website, you may also get in touch with the DVSA to inquire about their qualifications.
Avoid driving instructors or schools that are not DVSA-approved as they could not have the qualifications, experience, or insurance needed to train you safely and efficiently.
Compare prices and packages
The price of driving lessons may change depending on the venue, timing, duration, and quality of the teaching. To choose a driving school and teacher that provides affordable rates and packages that fit your budget and objectives, compare several driving schools and instructors.
RED Driving School’s 14 for 12 offer5, which provides you two free hours when you buy 12 lessons, is one example of a driving school that may provide discounts or deals for scheduling many sessions in advance. Additionally, see if there are any other expenses associated with utilising their automobile for the test, such as cancellation fees or additional prices.
It is crucial to take into account both the cost and the experience’s educational value. If a cheap session doesn’t adequately teach you what you need to know or prepare you for the test, it might not be worth your money. If a more costly class offers top-notch training and feedback that accelerates your growth and ultimately saves you money, it can be worthwhile.
Read reviews and testimonials
Reading reviews and comments from former or current students is one of the greatest methods to learn about the calibre and reputation of a driving school or instructor. These may be found on websites for the driving school, as well as on Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and Facebook.
You may learn more about a driving school or instructor’s teaching approach, attitude, professionalism, dependability, and success rate by reading reviews and testimonials. They can also assist you in determining any strengths or limitations that can influence how well you learn.
Though they might not be true, sincere, or representative of all students, you should be careful not to depend exclusively on evaluations and testimonials. In order to confirm the assertions and conclusions of the reviewers, you should also seek for further material and supporting documentation.
Try a trial lesson
Try out a trial session with a potential driving school or instructor to see whether they’re the appropriate fit for you. During a trial lesson, you may get to meet the instructor, see their vehicle, assess their methods and skills as a teacher, and determine whether you get along with them.
A trial session may also assist you in determining your present level of driving proficiency, your learning objectives and demands, as well as your chosen learning speed and style. Any inquiries you might have regarding the driving school, the teacher, the courses, or the test are welcome.
Some driving schools, like BSM Driving School2, which provides a free one-hour assessment session for new customers, may provide a free or reduced trial lesson. Take advantage of these offers if you can since they could help you make decisions without costing too much time or money.
Choose a driving school that suits your needs
The driving school that best meets your requirements and tastes is ultimately the finest one for you. You want to pick a driving school that has certified and knowledgeable teachers who can coach you in a safe and efficient manner. Additionally, look for a driving school that provides affordable rates and packages that match your financial situation and objectives. Additionally, look for a driving school with positive ratings and endorsements that speak to its standing and calibre. And last, after taking a trial session with a potential driving school, you should pick one with which you feel secure and at ease.
Choosing the appropriate driving school to assist you may make learning to drive a successful and fun experience. You may locate a driving school that will assist you in passing your test and developing into a capable and responsible driver by using the advice in this article.