What do I need to do before I can start driving?

You must have a Provisional Licence
You can apply for a provisional driving licence quickly and easily online from Directgov or by completing the D1 application form available at most post offices
All applications made by filling in the D1 form will also require original documentation to be sent to the DVLA to confirm your identity
The minimum age, which you can legally, drive a car on the public roads is 17
If you are disabled and in receipt of mobility allowance, the minimum age is 16
Until the day you pass the practical part of the Driving Test you are not allowed to drive on your own
It is also worthwhile having an eyesight test to check that you meet the minimum eyesight standard for driving

Can Pro-Scot apply for my Driving Licence?

Yes. You'll need to come into our head office, where we'll help you complete the DVLA forms. However, you can apply for a provisional driving licence quickly and easily online from the DSA.

To apply online you will need a valid digital UK passport or another form of identity and a credit or debit card to pay the licence fee.

How much are lessons with a Pro-Scot instructor?

Prices vary depending upon the duration of the lesson; the hourly rate for a 2hr lesson for example is cheaper than a 1hr lesson. Block bookings are also cheaper than 2hr lessons. Lessons paid in advance also qualify for a discount off the standard rate. The more you book the cheaper your lesson becomes. Please contact the office for special offers and seasonal discounts which may be available.

How often should I take lessons?

How often you have your lessons is entirely up to you. Pro Scot recommends at least 1 session of 2 hours per week. The more lessons you take the quicker you will learn and the more money you will save. A 1-Hour lesson taken once a week would equate to taking between 9 months to 1 year to learn to drive!

How many driving lessons will I need to take?

Driving is a skill that some people learn quicker than others. The Driving Standards Agency states that on average a person requires approx 44 hours of professional lessons combined with approx 22 hours of private practice. Your instructor will monitor your progress at the end of each lesson using Pro-Scot's training formula and progress chart, from this you will be able to assess how near test standard you are.

Do Pro-Scot have a good pass rate?

Pro-Scot's pass rate as a school exceeds 70% average (The national pass rate is approx 42%), this puts them in the top 5% for driving schools.

Do I need to pass the theory test before I can start lessons?

No. In fact it is a good idea to learn the theory whilst you are learning the practical as it can bring the subject alive making it easier to understand and remember.

What should I study to pass the Theory Test?

There are lots of books to help you, please ask your driving instructor for a theory pack which consists of the DSA's Official Theory CD Rom, which covers all you need to know for both the theory and hazard perception parts of the test. A Theory book is also available for those without access to a computer.

Do Pro-Scot provide Theory Test Training?

Pro-Scot also have an interactive computer suite at their head office in Kirkcaldy, where you can brush up on your theory and hazard perception skills and test your knowledge for FREE when you are learning to drive with a Pro-Scot instructor.

Pro-Scot also run Theory classes from their head office on a Tuesday 6pm-8pm. This service is free for those students undertaking lessons with a Pro-Scot instructor.

Where do I take my Theory Test?

There are various locations available for you, however most of Pro-Scot's students use the centres in Dunfermline, Dundee or Edinburgh?

How do I book my Theory Test?

The Theory Test can be booked in two ways, either by telephone on 0870 0101 372 or online at www.dsa.gov.uk. To book your Theory Test you will need your Driver Licence Number and a debit/credit card to pay for it.

Do Pro-Scot do intensive courses?

Yes. This can be arranged through our head office. Pro-Scot's "Learn To drive In A Week' Course is extremely popular with students, the test can be arranged at the end of the week for a learner with some experience or 2-3 weeks later for complete novices.

It is also possible to book semi-intensive courses.

We will arrange to carry out a driving assessment and talk through the various options available. Learning to drive is different for everyone so rather than sell you a set package we'll tailor one to suit you. Call 01592-650100 or pop into the head office for details.

Residential courses are also available, contact the head office for details. Please call for further details and availability.

Will I be asked questions at the end of my Practical Test?

No, since the introduction of the theory test this is no longer part of the practical Test.

I am really nervous about learning to drive, how can you help me?

Pro-Scot have had lots of experience dealing with nervous students, this is completely normal. We do have instructors who specialise in helping nervous pupils, they are particularly patient and understanding; they will help to build your confidence through our "success based" training programme.

Will my instructor expect me to know the basics of learning to drive?

No, your instructor will in many cases prefer you to have had no training; they are therefore starting with a clean slate, and can pitch their level of instruction to suit.

Can I choose to have a woman instructor?

Yes, Pro-Scot also have female instructors; please check for availability in your area.

Does Pro-Scot have automatic cars?

Yes, Pro-Scot has automatic cars if you would like clutch free motoring - No problem! Automatics, by making the physical job of driving much easier, give you more time to concentrate on what's happening on the road. Please check for availability in your area.

Can a friend or relative teach me how to drive?

The Driving Standards Agency strongly recommends that you take lessons from an Approved Driving Instructor. If your friend or relative teaches you they must be over 21 years of age and have held a Full British Driving Licence for at least 3 years. It's worthwhile remembering too that learning with a friend or relative means you could pick up their bad habits. Your instructor will advise when they feel you are ready to gain additional experience by going out with a friend or a relative. Remember their cars will more than likely not have the safety of dual controls.

When I pass my test does Pro-Scot provide further courses?

Pass Plus - a six hour training course designed to improve your skills in specific areas, such as town, night and bad weather conditions is Pro-Scot's most popular post test training course. Not only will it help to develop your car control, and driving skills further it will also enable you to receive large discounts on your car insurance. Please contact the head office for further details.

Does Pro-Scot provide refresher lessons for qualified drivers?

Yes, depending on your requirements there's a number of choices to help you brush up you skills.

Does Pro-Scot provide advanced driver training?

Yes, we can tailor your course to the requirements of 'Roadcraft'. Ask about details of the DIAmond, RoSPA and IAM Advanced Tests.

What happens if I don't like my instructor?

We have a large number of instructors with varying ages and personalities. At Pro-Scot we try and find the right instructor for you. If you're not happy, simply give us a call; we'll do our best to find you another instructor.

What happens on the day of my test?

Your instructor will have prepared you fully for the day of your test. They will have helped you with simulated mock tests to prepare you fully. The Practical Driving Test lasts 35 - 45 minutes and is conducted by a Driving Standards Agency Examiner.

It is conducted from your local driving test centre details of which you can find out from the head office. First of all you are given an eyesight test to make sure you reach the minimum eyesight requirement, then he will ask you a "show me tell me" maintenance question. The examiner then assesses your ability to drive competently and safely and tests you on some of the manoeuvres you have covered in your lessons.

If I have a complaint what do I do?

Pro-Scot have a customer service satisfaction grading of over 96% * In the unlikely event that you do have a complaint this will be taken very seriously and dealt with quickly and efficiently. In the first instance you should mention your complaint direct to your instructor, if this is not possible or you do not receive satisfaction you should take your complaint to our Head Office, if they are still unable to rectify the complaint to your satisfaction a letter should be written to our director. He will try to resolve the complaint to your satisfaction, if he is unable to then your complaint should be directed to the Driving Standards Agency, our office will give you their contact details. (* - Feedback received from Pro-Scot course critique sheets 2006)