The Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) Regulations 2005 (Amendment) (No 2) states what identification an individual is required by Law to take for their driving test. From 1 November 2005 regulation 38(6) stated every test candidate would have to present either both parts of a current-style two-part photocard licence (photocard and paper counterpart) or an old-style paper licence with a valid passport . No other forms of identification would be accepted.

For some time candidates have been allowed to complete a declaration if they have arrived for test without the required licence counterpart. However we are now required to tighten up on our ID requirements and so as from Monday 1 October 2007 we will cease to use the declaration.

Candidates must present either the new style photocard licence (both the photocard and the paper counterpart) or an old style paper licence with a valid passport.

Customers who arrive without these documents will not be allowed to take the test and so will forfeit their test fee.

Please ensure that you have the correct documentation. Failure will mean that you may not get to sit the test. You will still have to pay and complete your course in full.

Changes to the theory test for car and motorcycle candidates from 3 September 2007

From 3 September 2007, the number of multiple choice questions in the theory test for car and motorcycle candidates will increase from 35 to 50.

This increase is designed to develop higher driving standards and maximise the test's potential for road safety and other benefits. The maximum time allowed to complete the multiple choice questions part of the test will be 57 minutes and candidates will need to achieve a pass mark of at least 43 correct responses out of 50.

The updated version of the theory test book and CD Rom are now available to purchase from retailers or by clicking on the official Bookstore button on the DSA website www.dsa.gov.uk

All car and motorcycle candidates calling or going online to book theory tests which will fall either on or after 3 September will be made aware of the increased length and cost of the test. Candidates phoning the call centre will be able to hear a recorded message whilst waiting to be connected and the booking confirmation letter which goes out to candidates will be updated to explain these changes.

The fee will increase from £21.50 to £28.50.

http://www.dsa.gov.uk/News.asp?id=SXEA81-A782BD31

Karla, 17 (and 7 days), speeds to test centre

Karala came on a course with us and made the local paper as being one of the youngest ever pupils to pass their test since the theory came in. Full details of the newspaper artical can be found on:

http://archive.thisislancashire.co.uk/2005/11/24/877188.html

Photographic identification for theory or practical tests.

Only a valid passport can be used as photographic ID when taking a test with the old style paper licence. If you do not have a a photocard licence with counterpart - or old style licence without a valid passport you cannot undertake the test at the end of your course. We cannot be held responsible for improper documentation for your test.

Publication of DSA practical test centre routes - Update

The test routes are now available on the DSA website. All test routes for Blackpool and surrounding areas are available at our hotel, although as a study aid they are not too benificial to pupils, but can be a valuable assett to instructors.

Disqualified Drivers / Illegal instruction

Revoked licences from Jan 05 to July 05 are 9632

Please be aware of bogus instructors. The DSA integrity team are now to carry out investigations of reported cases. If you wish to report a case then please contact the DSA direct.

Abolishment of the D441

The DSA will no longer be issuing a D441 form. This form was used if a driving licence was lost and was an emergency form for pupil to sit a test (theory or practical) without actually having the licence. From 1/7/05 tests cannot be undertaken without a valid driving licence being present.

Please note - there are now no exceptions to this rule.

Most people fail their driving test... Are you ready?

Research shows that learners who have had about forty hours professional tuition plus plenty of practice, stand the best chance of passing. If you're not getting it right all the time without your instructor's help then you're not ready to take your test.

The current pass rate(Nationally - not A1's pass rate) is only 43% (June 2004)

For first time candidates, it's even lower. To help you avoid the most common pitfalls* here is a list of the top ten reasons why people fail...

1. Observation at junctions - Ineffective observation and judgement
2. Reverse parking - Ineffective observation or a lack of accuracy
3. Use of mirrors - Not checking or not acting on the information
4. Reversing around a corner - Ineffective observation or a lack of accuracy
5. Incorrect use of signals - Not cancelling or giving misleading signals
6. Moving away safely - Ineffective observation
7. Incorrect positioning on the road - At roundabouts or on bends
8. Lack of steering control - Steering too early or leaving it too late
9. Incorrect positioning to turn right - At junctions and in one way streets
10. Inappropriate speed - Travelling too slowly or being hesitant

* Top ten reasons based on twelve months to January 2004