What areas do we cover at First Drive?

First Drive can offer lessons in many East Devon towns including Sidmouth and Ottery. We can also offer manual or automatic lessons in Honiton and  Exeter. Areas across Torbay including Torquay and Newton Abbot are also areas we cover but currently can only offer manual lessons. We have recently been able to start to offer driving lessons in Ivybridge and Plymouth. If your location isn’t specifially mentioned, we may still be able to help. Please get in touch to find out.

What should I expect on my first driving lesson?

Driving lessons with First Drive will always be tailored to you. In your first lesson we will always make sure you get driving as soon as possible. Our instructors will take you to a quiet area and help you understand the basicis. Don’t worry if you know nothing at all, we will fill in all the blanks for you!

Do you fail your practical driving test if you stall?

Stalling a car is part of learning and driving a manual transmission. Even experienced drivers will stall. You won’t automatically fail your test if you stall unless the situation is dangerous. You can’t stall where you may cause a collison, emerging onto a roundabout for example. However if you were to stall pulling away at traffic lights, this is likely to be less dangerous and may only result in a driving error. 

What is the best way to prepare for your practical driving test?

To have the best chance of passing your practical driving test first time you need two things; experience and practice. Make sure you have lots of hours of practice on all types of road and traffic conditions. Try to have at least one mock test with a qualified driving instructor at least a month before your test. 

How long does it take to train to become a driving instructor?

Training to become a driving instructor is something not to be rushed. Remember, you are investing in you and learning a whole new set of skills, you want to make sure you get it right. Training can take in the region of 6 months but can sometimes take up to a year. 

What is the benefit of franchising from First Drive?

If you are a fully qualified ADI or looking to train to become a driving instructor, First Drive offer a comprehensive franchise program. We offer access to our full admin team to book in students, manage practical tests and help manage your diary. Our website takes care of all your advertising as well as joining a growing team. We don’t offer a car but can help you navigate the best way to get on the road. 

Is it important to read the Highway Code?

When learning to drive, having prior knowledge of road signs, road markings and rules of the road is going to save you time in your lessons which will speed up the learning process. Makes sure you have read the most up to date version. 

Do I need to have passed my theory before starting driving lessons?

You do not need to have passed your theory before taking driving lessons but make sure you are studying the Highway Code. You cannot book your practical driving test until you have passed your theory and there is a long wait for driving tests in the UK currently.