DVSA-style preparation • Flexible lesson times

Learn to drive with confidence. Pass with Julie.

Patient, calm, and focused on building your confidence behind the wheel — whether you're a complete beginner or brushing up before your test.

Book your lesson See lesson options
Manual & AutoFlexible lesson choices
Beginner FriendlyNervous drivers welcome
Evening SlotsBuilt for busy learners
Julie, your driving instructor
Lesson options

Simple pricing, clear options, no stress

First Lesson

Perfect for brand new learners who want a calm start.

£40 / hour
Popular

Weekly Lessons

Steady weekly sessions to build skills and confidence.

£38 / hour

Test Prep

Mock tests, manoeuvres, and confidence building before test day.

£45 / hour
Why learners choose Julie

Calm, patient, and focused on getting you to pass

Julie's lessons are built around your pace, not a fixed schedule. From your very first time behind the wheel to the moment you drive away from the test centre, you'll always feel supported.

Calm, patient approach
DVSA test preparation
Manual & automatic
Nervous drivers welcome
Flexible lesson times
Progress at your own pace
First lesson

We'll cover the basics at your pace — no pressure, no rush.

Building confidence

Weekly sessions to develop your skills on real roads.

Test ready

Mock tests and final prep so you feel calm and confident on the day.

Leave a review →
Ready to start?

Book your lesson

Takes two minutes. Julie will confirm by phone or email.

Book now →
Your road to passing

Six steps from learner to licence

Everything you need to know, in order — with links to the official GOV.UK pages at each step.

1

Check you're allowed to drive

You can start learning at 17 (or 16 if you receive the higher rate mobility component of PIP). You must be able to read a number plate from 20 metres and meet the medical fitness to drive standards set by the DVLA.

Eyesight requirements →
2

Get your provisional licence

Apply online through the DVLA — you'll need your National Insurance number and a UK passport. The provisional licence costs £34 online (£43 by post) and usually arrives within one to three weeks.

Apply for your provisional →
3

Start your driving lessons

There's no legal minimum number of lessons, but the DVSA average is 45 hours of professional tuition plus around 22 hours of private practice. Julie will give you a realistic view of your progress and won't push you to test before you're ready.

Book with Julie →
4

Pass your theory test

The theory test costs £23 and has two parts: 50 multiple-choice questions (you need 43/50 to pass) and a hazard perception test with 14 video clips (you need 44/75). Both must be passed on the same day, and your pass certificate is valid for two years.

Book your theory test →
5

Take your practical test

The practical test costs £62 on weekdays or £75 evenings and weekends, and lasts around 40 minutes. You'll do an independent driving section, two vehicle safety questions, and a manoeuvre. Up to 15 minor faults is a pass — one serious or dangerous fault is a fail.

Book your practical test →
6

Pass — and keep driving safely

Your provisional automatically becomes your full licence. Important: as a new driver, if you get 6 or more penalty points within 2 years of passing your licence is revoked and you must retake both tests. Consider Pass Plus for motorway, night, and dual-carriageway confidence — it can also reduce your insurance premium.

About Pass Plus →
Key facts

Costs, pass marks & rules at a glance

Theory test
  • Cost£23
  • Multiple choice50 questions — pass 43
  • Hazard perception14 clips — pass 44/75
  • Certificate valid2 years
Book theory test →
Practical test
  • Weekday cost£62
  • Evening & weekend£75
  • Duration~40 minutes
  • Minor faults allowedUp to 15
  • Serious fault1 = fail
Book practical test →
Provisional licence
  • Minimum age17 (16 with PIP)
  • Cost online£34
  • Cost by post£43
  • You'll needNI number + passport
Apply online →
New driver rules
  • Points limit6 points in first 2 years
  • PenaltyLicence revoked
  • After revocationRetake both tests
  • Pass Plus6 hrs advanced training
Pass Plus info →
Common questions

Things learners often ask

How many lessons will I need?

The DVSA average is 45 hours of professional lessons plus around 22 hours of private practice. Everyone is different — some people pass in fewer, others need more. Julie will give you an honest assessment after your first few sessions and won't push you towards a test date before you're ready.

Do I need to pass my theory test before starting lessons?

No — you only need your provisional licence to start lessons. Most learners sit their theory test partway through their practical training. Julie can advise on the right time based on your progress.

Can I use my own car for the practical test?

Yes, but it must meet DVSA requirements: valid MOT, road tax, and insurance that specifically covers you for a driving test (not all policies include this). It also needs a working rear-view mirror for the examiner and L plates front and back.

What are the most common reasons people fail?

According to DVSA data, the most frequent serious faults are: not checking mirrors properly when changing speed or direction, poor positioning at junctions, loss of control, and not responding correctly to traffic lights. Julie's test-prep sessions focus on exactly these areas.

What happens on the day of the practical test?

It starts with an eyesight check and two "show me, tell me" vehicle safety questions. You'll then drive independently for around 20 minutes following a sat nav, followed by examiner-directed driving and at least one manoeuvre (such as parallel parking or a bay park). The examiner will tell you your result at the end of the test.

I'm really nervous — is that a problem?

Not at all. Many of Julie's pupils come specifically because they're anxious or have had difficult experiences elsewhere. Lessons are calm, there's no raised voice or sudden braking, and you'll never be put in a situation you're not comfortable with yet.

What's the difference between manual and automatic lessons?

Manual lessons teach you to use the clutch and gearstick, giving you a full category B licence valid for both car types. Automatic lessons are often easier to start with, but your licence will be restricted to automatic vehicles only. Julie offers both — if you're unsure, have a chat before booking.

How far ahead can I book my practical test?

Up to 24 weeks in advance through the DVSA website. Test centres fill up fast, so it's worth booking as soon as you and Julie agree you're approaching test standard. You can reschedule with at least 3 working days' notice without losing your fee.