Getting Started

Before you start your lessons you need to obtain a Provisional Driving Licence. This can be applied for from the Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency (DVLA). You can get the application form from the Post Office. It is called a D1 form, but the staff at the Post Office will know which form you mean.

Currently in the UK you have to be 17 years of age to obtain a provisional licence to drive a car or ride a motorcycle - unless in receipt of a full disability allowance, when you can obtain a provisional licence at the age of 16 years. You must be in possession of a provisional driving licence before you will be able to drive on a public road.

Once we have arranged a date and time for your first lesson, you will be contacted the day before to confirm the lesson. On the day, I will arrive punctually and meet you at the door. You will receive a Barry's Driving Welcome Pack which includes information you will find useful during the lessons ahead.

I will then check your licence is valid and your eyesight is suitable for driving on the road. You must be able to read a licence plate at 20.5 metres, wearing glasses if required. We will then discuss your level of driving experience, if any. This will enable me to assess your starting point and plan your lesson ahead appropriately.

If You Haven't Driven Before

As a Driving Instructor with several years experience, I appreciate that few learners will be confident on their first lesson. In fact, most learners will be very nervous. I certainly remember how nervous I felt the first time I got behind the wheel. As an Instructor I utilise my friendly, professional manner to quickly put you at ease so that you can enjoy the process of learning to drive.

Taking your level of driving experience into consideration, I set the progress of the lessons to suit each individual. For example, if you get to grips with that lesson topic quickly, I will move on to something new. Alternatively, if you find something more difficult, we will spend as much time as needed until YOU are ready to move on.

I believe that understanding the lesson plan makes it easier to put those skills into practice. Understanding the reasons why we do things can be of great benefit in developing safe driving habits. So you can expect plenty of two way communnication and feedback during the lesson and a recap at the end so you are aware of the progress you are making.

My aim is to teach you the necessary skills that will follow you throughout your entire driving career. Remember the following phrase:

Areas Covered for Car Driving Lessons

Belfast areas: South Belfast, East Belfast & West Belfast. Post codes: BT4, BT6, BT7, BT8, BT9, BT10, BT11, BT12, and BT13.

Lisburn areas: Lisburn, Finaghy, Dunmurry, Twinbrook, Poleglass, Hillsborough & Moira.

County Down areas: Carryduff, Saintfield Crossgar Downpatrick and Ardglass.