Written by Completing an intensive driving courses is a significant milestone in your journey to becoming a qualified driver. After spending several days or even a week focused entirely on learning to drive, you may be wondering what happens next. While you’ve gained valuable experience and knowledge, there are a few important steps to take after finishing your intensive course to ensure that you’re fully prepared for your driving test and life on the road. Let’s explore what you can expect and how to move forward after completing your intensive driving course.
1. Your Theory Test and Practical Test
The first thing you should do after completing an intensive driving course is to ensure you’re ready for both your theory and practical driving tests.
Theory Test
If you haven’t already passed your theory test, it’s important to take it as soon as possible. Many intensive driving courses include theory test preparation as part of the package, so you may already have study materials and practice exams at your disposal. It’s a good idea to review any areas of the theory test you might have found challenging during your lessons. Some courses even offer a mock theory test to give you a better sense of what to expect.
Practical Test
Once you’ve passed your theory test, it’s time to focus on the practical driving test. Intensive driving courses typically prepare you for your test by honing your driving skills during daily lessons. After completing your course, you should feel confident and ready to take the test. Make sure to book your practical test early so you can take it right after finishing your course, while the skills and knowledge you’ve gained are still fresh.
2. Final Feedback and Evaluation from Your Instructor
After completing your intensive driving course, your instructor will provide final feedback on your progress. This feedback is crucial for understanding where you stand and whether you’re ready for your driving test.
Key Points to Expect:
- Strengths: Your instructor will highlight the areas where you’ve excelled, such as smooth handling of the car, traffic awareness, or effective use of mirrors.
- Areas for Improvement: They may also identify any remaining weaknesses or areas that need a bit more practice. For example, you might need to refine your parking skills or brush up on certain road signs.
- Test Readiness: A good instructor will assess whether you’re ready for the practical test and, if not, may offer additional lessons to ensure you’re fully prepared.
3. Booking Your Driving Test
After receiving feedback from your instructor, you should book your driving test if you haven’t done so already. Many intensive driving courses help you schedule the test immediately upon completion, or they may advise you on the best time to book based on your progress. It’s generally recommended to book your test within a few days of completing the course so that you don’t lose momentum.
4. Continuing Your Practice Before the Test
Even after completing an intensive driving course, it’s a good idea to continue practicing before your actual driving test. Depending on your course structure, you might have completed a series of lessons that give you enough practice to feel confident. However, if your instructor identified any areas of improvement, it’s worth spending a bit more time on these before taking your test. If you don’t have the opportunity to take additional lessons, try to get in some practice with a friend or family member, ensuring they meet the necessary criteria to accompany you.
5. What Happens if You Don’t Pass Your Test on the First Try?
While intensive driving courses are designed to prepare you thoroughly, it’s important to remember that not everyone passes their driving test on the first attempt. If you don’t pass, don’t be discouraged — it’s a common experience for many learners. The best thing to do is to focus on the feedback from your examiner and your instructor, and take a few additional lessons if necessary before rebooking your test.
Most intensive driving courses allow students to retake lessons or refresh their skills after the test, ensuring you’re fully prepared for your next attempt.
6. After You Pass: The Road to Full Independence
Once you’ve passed your driving test, the next phase begins: driving independently. Here’s what you can expect after earning your driving license:
1. Provisional to Full License
- If you’ve passed the practical test, you’ll be able to apply for your full UK driving license. Your provisional license will be replaced by the full one once the paperwork is completed.
2. Gaining Confidence on the Road
- Even after passing your test, driving can still feel new. Consider continuing to practice with family members or friends in different road conditions to build confidence. It’s also a good idea to drive in various weather conditions and during night time to improve your skills.
3. Advanced Driving Lessons
- After your intensive driving course, some drivers choose to enroll in advanced driving lessons to further enhance their skills. For example, you might consider taking a Pass Plus course, which helps new drivers build confidence and improve their driving abilities through advanced techniques.
7. Celebrate Your Achievement!
Completing an intensive driving course and passing your test is a significant accomplishment. Don’t forget to celebrate! Driving is a valuable skill that opens up new opportunities for independence and mobility. Whether you’re excited about the freedom of being able to drive to work, run errands, or take weekend road trips, this is a major milestone in your life.
Conclusion
Finishing an intensive driving course is a great step toward gaining your full driving license. After completing your course, make sure to take the theory and practical tests, continue practicing, and receive feedback from your instructor. With dedication, confidence, and a bit of patience, you’ll soon be driving on the road with your full license in hand. Whether you pass on the first try or need a bit more practice, your intensive driving course has provided the solid foundation you need to succeed behind the wheel.
Get ready to pass your driving test at Impulse Driving School. Our ADI-approved instructors in Manchester will ensure you’re fully prepared in just 4 weeks.