Getting on the road

Getting on the road

I know many of the readers of this blog are going to be starting to drive or ride and therefore I decided to include a page about how to get started, important information and the differences between modes of transport and legalities.

If you are already on the road then this page may help you with useful tips and advice and also keep you up to date with what regulations are changing.

Getting started

There are two routes into getting onto the road, 4 or 2 wheels.  This page will gel you through both starting with learning to drive a car.

CAR

As a young teenager the main target is to get them wheels, that bit of pink plastic and the ability to go places without mummy and daddy embarrassing you.   From your 17th birthday you are allowed to apply for your provisional license which you need to start the lessons with.  For those on high rate disability a license can be applied for after 16th birthday but these are specified conditions. Those of you who are extra eager you are able to apply for the license 2 months before your 17th birthday but you still have to wait till the cards have been opened to get on the road.

If you are lucky enough to be able to drive in a designated private off-road area, or are near places like the Seat Young Drivers program, you are able to learn to drive before 17,  as long as you can reach the pedals. these can be found across the UK.

To pass your full driving license you will have 3 tests to take, the first two are done together and have to be passed before the third test can be attempted.  These are the Theory and Hazard Perception tests and then your practical to finalise the achievement.  You are able to book your theory before you start to learn but it is advised that you have a go on the road with a qualified instructor before booking the theory and hazard perception tests as you may not be as good as you hoped.

It is recommended by the DSA (Driving Standards Agency) that you have a minimum of 42 hours tuition before going for the practical test. (as of 2013)

First decision to make is who to go to for tuition.  There are private instructors or driving schools, but what is important is to do your homework.  You need to be confident in the instructor, feel comfortable spending hours in a car with them and understand the way they teach.  A school will be able to provide a choice of instructors and if one should be unable to teach then a replacement tutor would be offered where-as a private instructor would have to cancel the lesson.  Look at their record of achievements, history and get to know them.  Book a starter lesson or meet in an office to get to know them.  This will make the difference between passing and failing.  If you are not happy with your instructor after a few lessons start asking for a new one or have a talk with your instructor to let him know you are not finding his style easy.

When booking your lessons there are a few things that you need to clarify.

• Is the instructor FULLY qualified?
• If i have a PDI will i pay less?
• If i sign up for a course of lessons and don't get along with the instructor will i get a refund if i change?
• How long is each lesson?
• Are there extra options available post-test?  such as skid training and advanced training?
• Where will my lessons be taking place, are they on roads you already know?

Some schools will send you out with a PDI (Provisional Driving Instructor), they are able to teach but have yet to complete their training.  There are two badges to look for, a PDI has a pink triangle and a fully qualified instructor has a green hexagon.

The Quick method

There is the chance that you are already able to control a car reasonably well or a circumstance that means you need to pass your test asap.  This is possible but you need to make sure you have your theory and hazard perception tests passed and the money readily available.  Some schools are able to do intensive training and will book your test for the end of the week.  Make sure they have done it.  But be warned, you are not guaranteed to pass first time, so make sure you have extra pennies to be able to continue after.

Bike

There is a different way to get on the road, by 2 wheels.  This form is a cheaper method that can be achieved quicker and although there is a higher risk of accident and injury can bring a greater amount of fun and freedom.  But it is the amount that you can save by going to two wheels that is the incentive. 

Getting started on a bike takes a day.  For aorund £120 after you have gained your provisional license and have passed your theory and hazard perception test, you go on a day course called the CBT (Compulsory Basic Training) and once passed you are on the road!

Purchasing a scooter or bike is less than a car, then follow that by cheaper insurance and road tax.  More miles to the gallon the only disadvantage is rain.  But with the proper kit that is not a problem either.

The main reason people get into biking is the sense of freedom from sitting in the car.  No more having ti sit in the rush hour traffic in the rain, wacting people get bored/tired/stressed.  The ability to filter through safely and make progress through traffic without endangering yourself is a skill brought about by confidence and practice but it means that having a bike is advantageous.

There are many methods to passing the test but it depends on your age.  Because riding a bike is more dangerous there are more tests as you get older but it is well worth going this route.  Your perception on the road is greater as your sense of vulnerability is exposed. Many car drivers with bike experience are less of an insurance risk and less accident prone.

below is a table detailing the necessary measures to getting on two wheels.  It is important you know how to go about it as it is age restrictive.

The prices for getting through your tests are shown below.  The tests may be cheaper for the car but it is after many lessons which is where the bike becomes the cheaper option.

NB:   Prices may vary as this is posted 2014 and local authorities may have variations.

So good luck on your experience and hope you enjoy the journey and stay safe!