New Driver - What would you do ?

unclebatman

Hi all,

Cutting a long story short, I haven't driven since failing my test on Xmas Eve 1998, and now, due to work, I have to sort things out, and get my license.

I've planned for this over the past few months by saving hard, and have passed my theory test with flying colours (35/35 questions and 68/75 Hazard Perception) which I was chuffed with.

Now, this is where your advice comes in. I've spoken to the guy I'll be learning with, and I've enough money saved for say 20 hours of lessons (he believes this will be about right) , and a test, which will then leave me with about £1,200. Question being = Would you buy a car now to get extra hours practice in before the test, or wait until the deed is done ?

Obviously, I need someone with me to drive, and the only person that can sit in the passenger seat is my Dad, who can realistically only give me a couple of hours a week max, and I don't want the car sat gaining dust. Having said that, looking back, I know the reason I failed last time, I just didn't get enough practice.

Has anyone been in the same position ? Oh, and anyone left it 9 years between tests that can offer advice ? I'm a bit nervous starting again to be totally honest !!

M4RKM

i failed my test when i was 18, and then didn't take it until i was 25...
i took only a couple of hours of lessons, but did drive an hour a day with my dad for about 7 months before i took my test..

i passed then first time...

alwaysonthego_2

I failed my test about 6 times and this was with practice in my own car. I decided to stop and 6 years later I thought I would give it another go. I had 10 lessons including two hours for my test and passed. it is all about confidence, but I am sure having extra practice won't hurt

scbk

I'd personally say leave buying a car until after your test. Do 2 hour lessons with your instructor (I did) at least once a week. If you feel you want any extra practice outside of this then maybe see if you can borrow a friend/relitive's car with them supervising.

Also some hire car places (like arnold clark) hire out dual control learner cars from £6 p/h