Automatic Driving Lessons

Automatic Lessons

We understand that not everyone is comfortable with driving a manual vehicle, maybe you’ve decided it’s not for you. You may suffer from driving anxiety, have a disability, have special educational needs or you may simply already have an automatic vehicle in the family which you need to know how to drive.

Driving an automatic vehicle still requires the ability to be aware of how to handle hazardous situations without the stress of using gears!

Your driving lessons will be carefully structured to suit your level of ability and will follow the recommended Driving and Vehicle Standards Agency syllabus, you will be given a record of your progress to take away with you as well as written information and feedback on each lesson, so you know what to practice (if you are able) and what to prepare for the following lesson.

Applying for your provisional licence/eye sight

The easiest way to apply for your provisional driving licence is online at https://www.gov.uk/apply-first-provisional-driving-licence. You will require proof of ID such as a passport, address details for the last 3 years, NI number if known and a debit or credit card. Alternatively, you can pick up a D1 form from the Post Office. Fees from £34.00.

Our instructor will check your (provisional) driving licence record, confirming if there are any penalty points or disqualifications at https://www.gov.uk/view-driving-licence prior to your first lesson.

You will also be asked to read a number plate from a distance of 20 metres for vehicles with a new-style number plate.

International to UK driving licence

If you need to convert your International licence to a UK driving licence please visit  https://www.gov.uk/exchange-foreign-driving-licence for up to date information.

Rules may change when the UK leaves the European Union from 01/01/2021.

  • You can only drive in Great Britain with a non-EU licence for 12 months after you arrive.

At Kath Bools Automatic we can offer assistance with driving on the left side of the road, negotiating roundabouts and busy traffic systems, and help you gain knowledge of the rules of the road and confidence whilst driving in the UK.

Theory assistance and booking theory test

Before you can apply for your practical driving test you will be required to take your theory test. DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) are the authorised Government agency who conduct your theory test. There are 2 parts to the theory test:

  • the multiple choice
  • the hazard perception

Like any test you will need to study from the recommended study aids and reading materials, the following books are highly recommended:

  • The Official DVSA Guide to Driving: The Essential Skills
  • The Official Highway Code
  • Know your traffic signs

Kath Bools Automatic will also provide free access to Driving Test Success where you can study and practice both parts of the theory test.

The DVSA theory test can be booked by clicking here. You will require your:

  • UK driving licence number
  • email address – you have to book by phone if you don’t have one
  • credit or debit card

Car and motorcycle theory tests cost £23

Practical Driving Test

The Practical driving test costs £62, along with your normal lesson rate. Kath Bools Automatic will help you every step of the way to manage your driving test nerves. For more information about what happens during the test please click here https://www.gov.uk/driving-test/what-happens-during-test

A mock test will be conducted in preparation for your practical driving test, giving insight of what will happen on the day.

Motorway Lessons

Under the supervision of a qualified driving instructor, in a vehicle with dual controls, learner drivers are allowed to practice driving on motorways.  This offers invaluable experience for learner drivers and will enable them to gain the imperative practice of driving on multi-lane roads at high speeds.

Perhaps you are already a full licence holder and just want to increase your confidence on motorways.  Our instructor is happy to help.

Pass Plus

Once you have passed your practical driving test, you will be eligible to take the Pass Plus course.  This course is a minimum of 6 hours and consists of six modules covering different driving conditions:

  • in town
  • in all weathers
  • on rural roads
  • at night
  • on dual carriageways
  • on motorways

All modules must be successfully completed to the required standard, you will not have to take a test but will be assessed throughout by your instructor.

On completion of the course, you will be sent a Pass Plus certificate by the DSVA. For more information, including potential car insurance discounts click here https://www.gov.uk/pass-plus

Refresher Lessons

You may have been driving for many years and are beginning to lose your confidence.  Or you may have given up driving several years ago and now need to drive because of a change in your family circumstances.

Whatever your situation, our instructor is happy to help you regain your confidence behind the wheel.

Training Vehicle

Kia Rio, 5 door hatchback, power steering, fully adjustable driver’s seat, (if you are under 5 ft or over 6 ft you will fit in!) twin airbags, ABS and all the usual mod cons. All of our pupils find these cars comfortable and easy to drive.

The car is fitted with HeMan dual controls for your safety.