Top tips for new drivers in Shrewsbury (and beyond)!

As upcoming new drivers, you will likely know via both the national news and personal experience that there is very limited availability of practical driving tests. Anywhere in the UK! So... a group of local driving instructors have complied some useful information to support you on your journey to becoming a fully qualified driver.

• Apply for your provisional licence early to avoid delays.

• Book your theory test in advance and focus on studying the Highway Code for better preparation rather than just trying to memorise the answers.

• Be aware of high demand for practical tests in Shrewsbury - plan and book well ahead and avoid scams by booking theory and practical test directly via the official GOV.UK website or your driving instructor.

• Talk to your driving instructor about test dates and lesson schedules to ensure a smooth learning experience.

Provisional Licence

You can apply for a provisional licence from the age of 15 years and 9 months. While you can apply early, you won't be able to drive a car (on the roads) until your 17th birthday (or 16th if you receive Personal Independence Payment).

Peak application times

June-September are the busiest periods, and can lead to delays, so plan ahead to avoid last-minute stress. You can apply for your provisional licence online via the official GOV.UK website or by post.

Theory Test

You can book your theory test up to 3 months before your 17th birthday and take it on or after your 17th birthday.

Preparing for the theory test is key. There are plenty of apps available for both Android and iPhones that include mock tests, hazard perception practice, and the latest Highway Code.

It is essential to study the Highway Code thoroughly. Don't rely solely on app based question banks; the answers to all theory test questions are in The Highway Code, reading it will give you a better understanding of road rules and safety. Memorising the right answers without understanding is not the best way to prepare!

Once you pass your theory test, you have two years to book and pass your practical driving test before the theory test certificate expires. The theory test fee is currently £23 (at the time of writing). Always book through the official government website to avoid extra charges or scams.

Practical Driving Tests

You can book your practical test after passing your theory test.

In Shrewsbury, driving test slots are currently being released in one-week blocks, up to 6 months in advance of the current date due to high demand. This means you may need to plan well ahead to secure a test date that suits you. As the current demand for tests is exceptionally high, people are travelling from as far as Scotland and London to take their test in Shrewsbury due to limited availability in their own areas. This has added pressure to our local system.

Cancellation apps can be helpful in finding earlier test dates, but costs vary, and availability depends on the situation. Be aware that companies are employing staff to refresh the booking system constantly, snapping up cancellations and reselling them at inflated prices. This has made it difficult for learners to access fair test booking.

The fee for a weekday test is £62, while a Saturday test costs £75 (at the time of writing). Ensure your driving instructor is available on your chosen test date before booking. This avoids the risk of needing to find a new instructor last minute, which many instructors won't be able to accommodate.

Driving Lessons

How much will it cost to learn to drive?

The total cost of learning to drive varies from person to person, but 35 to 45 hours of lessons with a professional instructor is typical.

Additional private practice with family or friends can be hugely beneficial, but not everyone has access to this opportunity.

Local lesson prices range between £35 and £55 per hour, depending on:

• Whether you are learning in a manual or automatic car (automatic lessons are often more expensive)

• The length of the lesson (1-2 hours is standard).

Check with your instructor for their specific rates and packages. Ensure that your instructor carries a valid DVSA Driving Instructor badge - it is illegal to charge for lessons without one.

Remember, every learner is different. The time is takes to learn will depend on your confidence, natural ability to take on board the skills taught, and the consistency of your lessons.