Welcome to Foyle School of Driving.
Based in Derry, NI we offer training on vehicles from lorries to mopeds, for operators from beginner to advanced instructor level. Our fully qualified, expert instructors use a thoroughly tested lesson plan based approach to ensure that nothing is missed during training. Maximising your chances of a positive result on test day.
Our director Jim Doyle has this to say:
“Some one will need to help you develop the skills you need to drive daily or maybe even become a driving instructor. This takes someone with experience, knowledge and skill. We at Foyle School of Driving have the right team in place to give the training you need. We specialize in each of the areas we provide. Click on the Training Services link for a full list of the services we provide.” “I have been successfully teaching driving instructors for over seventeen years. I specialize in all the qualifying parts of the exams, including check test and recovery training. All of the training is on an individual basis and tailored to suit the needs of the person that I am training.” “I look forward to dealing with you soon!”
Qualifications
Our instructors are all encouraged to undergo continuous training and development in order to stay abreast of the latest developments in driving legislation and to provide the best possible service to our students. Our impressive list of qualifications include:
- DOE Approved instructor, Grade 6.
- Road transport Industry Approved Large Goods Instructor
- DSA Qualified LGV/PCV Instructor
- Independent Training Standards Scheme and Register, Examiner/Instructor, Cat one
- Tutor Cat 4 (Forklifts)
- Certificate of Professional Competence for Transporting Goods by road
- Assesor, National Bus and Coach Council
- Institute of Advanced Motorists
- ROSPA Gold / Advanced Driver
- DOE Approved Motorbike Instructor
- NEBOSH, general certificate
January 9th, 2010 in
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How the theory test works
At the DVLNI Theory Test Centres there is no writing involved. Their “Touch Screen” computers deliver the multiple-choice part of the theory test.
The Hazard Perception part of the test involves watching 14 clips of film on a computer. These clips contain 15 scoreable hazards and candidates must click using the mouse to score points.
We can help you prepare for the DVLNI Theory Test. We have the full range of DVLNI materials available as well as a CD-ROM produced by FOCUS which contains 100 film clips for additional Hazard Perception practice.
Making a Theory Test appointment
It is quick and simply to arrange your Theory Test Appointment. Either phone DVLNI on 0845 402 4000 or visit their website at http://www.dvlni.gov.uk.
We recommend that a Theory Test pass is achieved prior to arrangement of driver training or at the latest as soon as driver training commences.
January 17th, 2010 in
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If you’re interested in learning to ride, look no further. We can offer comprehensive, personlised training from your CBT through to your final test. We have a selection of Honda 125cc bikes to get you started and all of our instructors are fully qualified and experienced in the field.
As with any of our lesson plans we will tailor your instruction to suit your specific needs saving you time and money while ensuring that you are fully prepared come test day. We use a structured approach with full written records of your training.
Why not contact us for more information?
FAQ:
- Can I start driving lessons with an instructor before passing my theory test?
- Yes. We recommend you take practical lessons while preparing for your theory test. The combination of practical experience with theoretical learning should help you perform better at the theory test.
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- I want to take a motorcycle test and I already hold a full car licence. Do I need to take a theory test?
- Yes. Your car licence does not exempt you from taking the motorcycle theory test.
What is the minimum age to ride a moped?
The minimum age to ride a moped is 16.
- What will my examiner want from me?
- Your examiner will want you to drive safely and competently in various road and traffic conditions. The examiner will give you clear directions in good time, and will ask you to carry out set exercises.
January 17th, 2010 in
Training Services |
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Foyle training offers the most comprehensive training syllabus in the UK as follows:
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Instructor’s legal/moral obligations
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Eyesight checks / Driver licensing
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Route directions / Clear communication
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Use of instructor’s mirrors / observations
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Using dual controls / types of dual control
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Professional introductions
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Lesson structure / Timing
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Eye contact /developing pupil interest
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Pupil’s previous experience?
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Prompts / lesson plans
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Keeping control of lesson
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Briefings / Q and A
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The marking sheets / relevant faults
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Talk through instruction / control
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Q and A methods
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Positive instruction / retrospective
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Giving appropriate praise
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Instructor’s theory knowledge
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Level of instruction
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Planning
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Control of lesson
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Communication
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Q/Techniques
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Feedback/Encouragement
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Instructor’s use of controls
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Driving test knowledge / Theory test knowledge
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Advanced driving test knowledge
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Route planning
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Pupils test day
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Pass plus / advanced driver training/refresher training
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Suitable training vehicle / test requirements
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Covering the DSA syllabus as required:
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Legal requirements / Car controls, equipment and components / Road user behavior / Vehicle characteristics / Road and weather conditions / Traffic signs rules and regulations / Car control and road procedure / Additional knowledge, motorway.
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Covering all the above subjects leading to practice in the following pre-set tests:
Pre-set tests subjects
Phase 1 beginner only
Phase 1 and 2 subjects (Partly trained and trained)
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Approaching Junctions to turn either right or left
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Emerging at T junctions
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Dealing with crossroads
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Meet, cross, overtake, clearance and anticipation
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Pedestrian crossings and signals
Phase 2 only (trained) or full licence holder
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Progress / hesitancy/ normal road position
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Reverse / parallel parking
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Leading to mock tests in the above subjects and leading to part three examinations, when you are ready.
Notice we say covering all the above subjects leading to practice in the following pre-set tests. The large so-called training companies and many independent smaller training companies, simply run through pre set tests to train you without teaching you basic instructional techniques. The pre set tests were never meant to be used as a training syllabus. If you have been properly trained, you can deliver a lesson on any subject.
Again, due to the extremely high standard of tuition an average person requires approx 40 – 70 hours of one to one tuition before a first attempt at part 3. You will be trained so when you pass you do not feel you have been thrown in at the deep end, you can safely teach any driver or learner to the required standard.
Jim teaches beyond your ADI badge with further professional development training in the following areas:
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Newly qualified ADI training
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Check test preparation
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Advanced driving test preparation
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Ordit trainer qualification
Throughout all your training you will be offered demonstrations of how it should be done for both part 2 and 3. You will have the opportunity to sit in on real lessons with real pupils.
January 17th, 2010 in
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Nigel Dawson Ba (Hons) Driver Education
Unfortunately Northern Ireland is catching up with England,Scotland and Wales, in that some of the larger so called Driving Instructor ‘training’ companies who shall remain nameless, are cottoning on to the potential to remove hard earned cash from honest people, whilst offering a very poor standard of training and many false promises. The quality trainers realise this, the potential ADI’s generally do not.
Foyle school of driving, and Jim the director are very different
Jim Doyle- Foyle School of Driving
Jim recently spent a few days in England on one of my training courses. Spending a few minutes with Jim I soon realised his unique approach and unique training methods, combined with thorough knowledge, experience and qualifications are very rare within this industry.
His psychological approach to learning is unique, but makes perfect sense even to the layman, due to Jim’s simple explanation techniques. You may feel like Basil Fawlty in the episode ’The Psychiatrist’! at times, but his analysis of human behaviour and how learning takes place is second to none. Although I was the Trainer on the course, I learned an awful lot from Jim, and I certainly intend to change my training regime to incorporate some of Jim’s unique methods and realise wholly the potential benefits of those methods.
I would (and already have) recommended Jim to potential ADI’s in Northern Ireland, and would rarely recommend trainers in this industry, Jim is one of the few. The vast majority of PDI’s make the wrong decision when choosing their trainer, why not make the right one?
Nigel Dawson Ba (Hons) Driver Education
Excelsior Training
(07984 908767)
www.excelsiortraining.co.uk
After I failed my final part three A.D.I. test I was advised by a friend to contact Jim Doyle at Foyle School of Driving. Failing the part 3 was actually the best thing that could have happened to me because on commencing training with Jim I realized how much I did not know about the art of driving instruction!
The training I received from Jim was structured and always thought provoking, one of Jims strengths is that he will very quickly establish where a P.D.I.s weak points are and put the problem right with the minimum of fuss. I know that I could never have passed the part 3 test without Jims assistance. He will leave no stone unturned to give you the best possible chance of success.
I would not hesitate in recommending Jim Doyle if you are looking for an A.D.I. with years of experience. If anyone wishes to contact me regarding the training I received from Jim by all means give me a ring.”
Nigel Richmond; A.D.I. Number 1836
“1. WHEN- I first went to Jim Doyle for instruction to become an ADI, I was very much put at ease by his friendly approach and his willingness to pass on his knowledge on the subject.
2. WHAT: can I say about Jim? Quite simply he is very good at what he does, being totally professional, patient and has a great way of putting things across in relation to driving instruction.
3. WHO- should you go to if you want to become an ADI? The answer has to be Jim Doyle, who will put you on the road to becoming a good driving instructor if you are prepared to put in the required work.
4. WHY- should you believe me about Jim Doyle? With the excellent advice and practical teaching I got from him, I gained much needed knowledge, which resulted in me becoming an ADI.
Mitch McKnight; ADI Number 1703
“About 10 years ago, I decided I wanted to become a driving instructor. At that time I studied for the theory exam and passed. I was working in a factory at the time and I felt I didn’t have the time to go to the next stage, but still harboured the idea of some day going back to driving instructing.
3 years ago, I was made redundant from the same factory and after a few weeks of considering my options for the future, I decided this was the time to start on the road to become a driving instructor. I searched for someone to help with my training and was lucky enough to pick Jim Doyle. On my first meeting with Jim, I immediately realized I had made the right choice.
Jim spelt out to me, what was ahead: firstly he gave me a list of literature, which I had to study for theory part 1 of the test. This was studied and the test was passed. I went back to Jim and we set about part 2. I thought I was a good driver starting this part but soon realized not good enough. Jim and I worked hard at this together and I was a good driver when I passed part 2. The driving knowledge I got here gave me a firm platform for part 3. There is a lot of work needed to pass part 3, so Jim and I set about this, building up bit by bit until I reached a stage where I could do the test but more importantly be able to instruct someone how to drive properly. I passed this exam first time with 2 grade 5’s. When I did the test I was amazed at how similar it was to the work I had done with Jim in the previous couple of months.
I would recommend Jim to anyone setting out on this road. He was a very professional tutor from the first day I met him. I just wish that I had met him 10 years earlier. It is now 18 months since I became an A.D.I. I along with 2 other A.D.I’s who also trained with Jim have set up a very successful driving school called Lakeland School of Driving in Enniskillen. I was introduced to both these people through Jim and he gave us a lot of advice on setting up the school. We are all in touch with Jim on a regular basis, any time we need any questions regarding driving, we know he is at the other end of the phone.
Having since done my 1st check test, I went back to Jim for a few hours of refresher training but the knowledge was really there from the intensive training I had received for part 3. I was very pleased to attain a strong grade 5 in check test.
My advice to anyone wanting to become a driving instructor is: listen carefully to Jim and follow his advice. His opinion is probably better than yours.”
Wesley Blair; ADI Number 1743
“I started my training with Foyle School of Driving, with a certain Jim Doyle, about 10 months ago. His approach was professional, encouraging and supportive, and he was able to arrange my training to suit my lifestyle. I am really pleased to say now that I am a fully qualified ADI. I had been with another school of motoring before Foyle and really got my eyes opened, there is alot of con artists about, Foyle School of Driving really is the only driving instructor training college worth visiting in the North West area. Thanks sooo sooo much Jim…. ”
Emma Mc Nichol; ADI Number 184
“Where do I start? Jim Doyle (AKA Hesus), Intelligent, Witty, we’ll not go as far as to say good looking, although he would probably beg to differ!
Now lets move onto the more practical side of things, Jim provides an exceptionally high standard of training and has the ability to tailor lessons to suit every individual as we all learn in different ways. From the start he will make you fully aware of the commitment which is required in order to complete this course successfully and fortunately for me I listened and learned well and passed on my first attempt! So if you want to become a competent Driving Instructor, don’t call me – call Hesus.
Enough said – Thanks a million Jim”
Emer Roohan; Lakeland School of Driving
DO YOU WANT TO BECOME A DRIVING INSTRUCTOR?
If you do you will require quality, one to one instruction from an experienced, knowledgeable, proven instructor. If you train with Jim Doyle that’s exactly what you will receive.
Don’t waste your money on other “would be” instructors. Go for value for money instruction. Go for Jim Doyle. I did.
Alex Spence; ADI Number 1761
“When I was training for my ADI exam, Jim Doyle of Foyle School of Driving was highly recommended. From the start of my training, I felt relaxed and competent and felt that Jim gave 100% towards my training. The training for the ADI exam is very tough – with Jim by your side each step of the way – it left things a lot easier and I felt more confident in myself as an instructor.”
Barry Rodgers; Lakeland School of Driving
“Many are called, few are chosen” I chose the job, the D.V.T.A. made me one of the “few” but Jim Doyle made it happen for me, I simply could not have got through this without him!
Tony Mc Cann; A.D.I. Number 1862
My name is Dennis P Martin ADI No1087.This is my Story.
I have been teaching people to drive for over 25 years, busy putting people through the driving test .I was like a conveyor belt PASS, PASS, PASS no problem for me. Then came the brick wall, they moved the goal posts. The thing was I did not move with them.
Along came my check test, I thought not a bother, as it had not been before .The day came off I set “BANG”. My pupil through a wobbler!!!!.I was not ready for it. Down I went .I was numb with shock, I never saw it coming. Right I thought get the books out, do a bit of studying, I will be fine. Check test number 2 came and off I set.Got off to a good start then “BANG” not again another wobbler!!!!!.I abandoned my lesson plan, fatal mistake I was in trouble and down I went. I was devastated ,where would I go from here???
Then I met Jim Doyle from Foyle School of driving. He saved my career, mortgage, and my pride.Jim Doyle is a true gentleman, very intelligent and very knowledgeable, he knows his stuff.
If anyone out there want to be an ADI examiner or Trainer, Jim is the one to go for, did it for me, and he can do it for you. I got a grade 5+one mark away from the top grade 6.He is a top gun!!
Thank you and good luck Jim
Dennis P.Martin
Joe Mc Goldrick ADI No.1911
When I decided to become a driving instructor .I thought that I would just have to find any instructor to put me through the training. Unfortunately after wasting a lot of time and money I found that this was not the case.
Driving instructor training does not have to be difficult, choosing the right trainer can be!! That is if you don’t go to Jim Doyle.
Without Jim I would not be where I am now. I am now fully qualified Driving instructor and now earning a decent living.
Thanks Jim
Joe
Biting Point school of driving school
Martina Mc Grade
I began my ADI training with Jim Doyle who had been recommended to me by a local ADI
Jim had an unorthodox approach to teaching which I liked and was comfortable with. Lessons were always well structured with aims and objectives set at the beginning of the lesson and worked towards during the lesson to achieve the outcome at the end. You were given feedback regarding what you had improved on and encouraged with what needed more work and practice, before the next lesson.
Jim is very knowledgeable in all areas of ADI training. He is approachable, makes you feel at ease and builds up a good rapport with his students, which can only and does bring out the best in them. He is enthusiastic and excellent at encouraging pupils to overcome their fears and helps them to believe in them self’s. He is patient and always has suggestions or solutions for any problems which trainees may be experiencing. He is a good listener and a good conversationalist.
With regards to the training I received I have no doubt in recommending Jim Doyle for ADI training
Martina Mc Grade
ADI No 1930
Mark Goddard
I had been a self employed taxi driver for 15 years and decided it was time for a career change. I have always loved driving and wanted to continue this. had already obtained my LGV licence ,but I preferred meeting people and passing on the driving skills I myself was lucky enough to have already acquired. A friend suggested driving instruction and. as this was something that I was already considering, I realised that it was an obvious choice. After making some inquiries the name Jim Doyle was suggested many times. I then contacted Jim and from the very first meeting his professionalism and enthusiasm were very evident.
Almost Immediately I started the ADI course with Jim and, with the help of his excellent tuition ,I have now passed parts 1,2,and 3 started my new career and I am really enjoying it. When I was young I watched a TV programme called ”Jim’ll fix it. Well whenever I talk to anyone considering Driving Instruction all I can say is Jim certainly fixed it for me.
Thanks a million Jim.
Mark Goddard ADI No1936
Leonie Russell ADI 1961
If you’re needing this and thinking of driving instruction as a career, your one step ahead already!!When I first commenced training I had no mentor no sound advice, no recommendations to point me in the right direction. The only reason I picked Jim Doyle was by complete chance or coincidence, I simply picked straight out of the yellow pages and took it from there.
By the end of the first lesson I didn’t need any recommendations, I knew that I had made the right decision. Jim trained me for parts 2 and 3 exams and I qualified last year I haven’t had any instructional lessons since then but Jim continues to teach me on a daily basis because I recall his advice, skills and knowledge for each and every lesson I give, exactly as I did for the part 3 exam.
His advice is affective, his teaching methods work and the results speak for them self’s there is nothing that he will not teach you that you will not use for the qualifying exam or for safe structured lessons .I have the greatest respect for Jim as a professional instructor, mentor, and adviser and would tell anyone the same.
Good Luck!!!!
Leonie Russell ADI 1961
January 17th, 2010 in
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Interested in becoming a driving instructor? Already working but want to improve or worried about your check test? Our MD Jim Doyle is one of the most qualified driving instructor trainers in the country and comes very well recommended by previous students.
If you are already an instructor and feel you need a refresher lesson prior to a check test, or just to keep yourself sharp we can arrange a lesson plan around your scheduleto ensure you are fully up to speed when on the road with students. We offer friendly, honest advice to help you improve your teaching methods and increase your pass rate.
Not yet qualified? Driving instruction is a very rewarding way to earn a living, not only are you your own boss, setting your own targets and working hours you will also be teaching people a skill for life. The demand for instructors is currently growing so why not make a start now?
Many new trainees are worried about taking the plunge into self employment. We can fit your training around any current commitments that you have and give you a realistic picture of what you can expect to have to achieve both before and after qualifying. We will not rose tint your view of the process but we will guide you through it in a positive and friendly manner to make you the best instructor you can be.
To become an ADI:
Being a successful Driving instructor relies on many personal skills, but also on being able to:
- Use and interpret body language;
- Sell ideas and concepts;
- Solve problems;
- Identify, analyse and correct faults;
- Make immediate decisions with safety in mind.
To become an ADI you must successfully complete a three part qualifying examination:
- A theory test;
- A practical test of your driving ability;
- A practical test of your ability to instruct.
You must take and pass all three parts of the examination in this order and the whole examination must be completed within two years of passing the theory test. If you have not completed the examination within this time, you must start again form the beginning and pass each part again. This period cannot be extended for any reason whatsoever. But you are allowed to take the test of ability to instruct after 2 years has passed if the application was made before the expiry date. If you pass that test you are deemed to have done so within the 2 years.
You are only allowed 3 attempts at each of the qualifying examinations. If you have not passed after 3 attempts you must wait until the end of your 2 – year period before you can re-sit the qualifying examination, starting with the theory test.
The process begins by making an application to take the ADI theory test which is the first part of the 3 part qualifying examination.
Before applying:
If you want to become an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) you must:
- Currently hold a full Northern Ireland. Great Britain or Community (EU) car driving licence;
- Have held one of the above licences or a foreign licence for a total of 4 years out of the past 6 years preceding the date of your application;
- Not have been disqualified from driving for any part of the 4 years preceding the date of your application;
- Be a fit and proper person to have your name entered in the Register. All convictions including motoring offences, still in force (i.e. not ’spent’ under the Rehabilitation of Offenders (Northern Ireland) Order 1978) will be taken into account when the Registrar assesses your suitability to be entered on the Register;
- Pass the three part qualifying exam (as above)
Application forms may be downloaded or are obtainable from:
The Register of Approved Driving Instructors,
Driver & Vehicle Testing Agency Headquarters,
Balmoral Road,
Belfast
BT12 6QL.
Tel. No: (028) 90547933
Theory Test Application Form (pdf 80kb)
Test of Driving Ability Application Form (pdf 19kb)
Test of Instructional Ability Application Form (pdf 42kb)
Completed forms should be sent to the ADI Section at the above address.
Can anyone with a disability apply:
Yes. If your licence is marked ‘restricted’ the details of the restrictions on your licence must be sent with your application. However, you should note that you must pass Part 2 and Part 3 of the qualifying examination in a vehicle with a manual gearbox.
For more information please contact us.
January 17th, 2010 in
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Learn to drive in Derry
For the best driving school in Derry come to the people who train the others. With years of experience in the field our instructors are the most qualified in the area. We will tailor lesson plans to your specific needs and offer targeted assistance through the theory as well as the practical tests.
Starting out on the road can be nerveracking for many people. You will want to be sure of the best possible support and equipment that won’t let you down. Our modern, well serviced fleet of instructor vehicles have been chosen for reliability and ease of use. Available in manual or automatic, we further modify the vehicles with instructor specific hardware, such as dual controls, to ensure that your experience will be smooth all the way from your first journey to your final test.
Disabled drivers
We feel that disabled drivers should not be excluded from the opportunities afforded by our top grade instructors and, to this end, we have automatic geared vehicles with full steering wheel controls. Further our targetted lesson plans can be designed to deal with the specific problems you may face on the road. Fully preparing you to pass your test with flying colours.
Where to begin
If you are coming to us from a different school you should already have a provisional licence and theory test certificate. If not, see below, otherwise contact us for further information and to make a booking.
Provisional License Application
If you are a new driver and unsure of when to begin the best place to start would be to download, fill out and return your provisional license application. This will cost you roughly £50. For the latest fees see the direct.gov website. You can apply for a licence 3 months before your 17th birthday or anytime after this.
You will then need to sit your theory test. If you are confident of a pass you can sit the test as soon as you hold a valid provisional licence and you reach the age of 17. If you are worried about the new test and what it contains we can offer you assistance to get you through it.
For further information please contact us.
January 17th, 2010 in
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