Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about learning to drive with Easy Pass Driving School
Common Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about driving lessons in Reading. Whether you’re looking for information on automatic driving lessons, pricing, or driving test routes in Berkshire, we have you covered.
Starting Your Driving Lessons
What do I need before my first lesson?
You’ll need a valid UK provisional driving licence. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, please bring them along for your lesson.
Can I start lessons without passing my theory test?
Yes, you can begin practical lessons before passing your theory test. However, we recommend preparing for both alongside your lessons to progress faster.
What happens in the first lesson?
Your first lesson is relaxed and designed to build confidence. You’ll learn basic controls, moving off, and stopping safely—no pressure.
What atr the 27 skills I need to learn to become a safe driver?
Group 1: The Basics (Skills 1–4)
1. Legal responsibilities: Understanding the rules, insurance, MOT, and your health/eyesight.
2. Safety checks: Knowing how to check your vehicle is roadworthy (think “FLOWER” checks).
3. Cockpit checks: Adjusting your seat, mirrors, and head restraint before starting.
4. Security: Keeping yourself and the vehicle safe from theft or risks.
Group 2: Control and Positioning (Skills 5–7)
5. Controls and instruments: Mastering the pedals, gears, and dashboard lights.
6. Moving away and stopping: Starting and stopping safely, including on hills.
7. Safe positioning: Driving in the correct part of the road and lane.
Group 3: Observations, Signalling, and Planning (Skills 8–13)
8. Mirrors – vision and use: Checking surroundings effectively before acting.
9. Signals: Giving clear, well-timed signals and responding to others.
10. Anticipation and planning: Spotting hazards early and planning your response.
11. Use of speed: Driving at a safe speed for the road and conditions.
12. Other traffic: Meeting, crossing, and overtaking other road users safely.
13. Fuel-efficient driving: Driving in a way that saves fuel and helps the environment.
Group 4: Junctions, Roundabouts, and Crossings (Skills 14–16)
14. Junctions: Negotiating T-junctions, crossroads, and emerging safely.
15. Roundabouts: Understanding lane choice and timing at roundabouts.
16. Pedestrian crossings: Identifying different types and keeping pedestrians safe.
Group 5: Manoeuvres (Skills 17–20)
17. Reversing: Controlling the car accurately while moving backward.
18. Turning the car around: Using forward and reverse gears to change direction.
19. Parking: Mastering parallel parking and bay parking.
20. Emergency stop: Stopping quickly and safely under full control.
Group 6: Road Types (Skills 21–23)
21. Country roads: Dealing with narrow lanes, bends, and higher speeds.
22. Dual carriageways: Joining, leaving, and overtaking on faster roads.
23. Motorways: (Now part of lessons) Understanding high-speed motorway rules.
Group 7: Driving Conditions (Skills 24–26)
24. Driving in the dark: Managing visibility and headlight use at night.
25. Weather conditions: Adapting to rain, fog, ice, and bright sun.
26. Passengers and loads: Understanding how extra weight affects the car.
Group 8: Following Routes (Skill 27)
27. Independent driving: Following signs or a Sat Nav without help from your instructor.
Booking Driving Lessons in Reading
How many driving lessons will I need to pass my test?
Everyone learns at a different pace but the DVSA average is around 45 hours of professional tuition. After your first few lessons, we’ll give you a personalised estimate based on your progress.
Do you do intensive courses?
We can offer intensive or semi-intensive lesson plans depending on your availability. Contact us to discuss a schedule that suits you.
How do I book my driving lessons?
Simply visit our enquiry page, fill in your details and we will be in touch within 24 hours to arrange your first lesson at a time that suits you.
Do you offer evening or weekend lessons?
Yes, we offer flexible lesson times, including evenings and weekends, subject to availability.
How much notice do I need to give to cancel a lesson?
We require at least 48 hours’ notice for cancellations or rescheduling to avoid being charged.
What to Expect During Lessons
Do you teach automatic or manual?
We specialise in automatic lessons which many learners find easier, less stressful and quicker to learn. Automatic cars are becoming increasingly popular in the UK.
What car will I learn in?
You will learn in a modern, comfortable and clean automatic car fully equipped with dual controls for your complete safety. Our vehicle is regularly maintained and serviced.
I’m nervous about driving—can you help?
We specialise in nervous learners. Our patient, calm and supportive approach has helped many anxious drivers gain confidence and pass their test. You are in safe hands!
Can I request a male or female instructor?
Yes, we’ll do our best to match your preference, depending on availability.
How long is each lesson?
Standard lessons are 2 hour long. We also offer 1.5 hour and 1 hour lessons.
Our Driving School Coverage Areas
Can you pick me up from work or school?
Yes, as long as the pick-up and drop-off locations are within our service area, we can start and finish your lesson where it’s most convenient.
Which areas in Reading and Berkshire do you cover?
Lower Earley, Woodley, Earley, Winnersh, Wokingham, Arbofield, Shinfield, Three Mile Cross, Spencers Wood, Ryeish Green, Swallowfield, Whitley and surrounding areas. Get in touch to confirm your location.
Pricing & Payments
Do you offer block booking discounts?
Yes, we offer discounted rates when you book lessons in blocks. This can help you save money and stay consistent.
How much do lessons cost?
Please contact us or visit our enquiry page for current pricing. We offer single lessons, block bookings and intensive fast pass packages to suit every budget.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept bank transfer, cash, and sometimes card payments—please confirm when booking.
Reading Driving Test Information
When should I book my practical driving test?
Once you’re consistently driving safely and confidently, we’ll advise you when you’re test-ready and help you book.
Do you cover Reading driving test routes Reading (Pacific House)?
Yes, we train in local test areas Reading (Pacific House) so you become familiar with common routes and conditions.
Can I use your car for my driving test?
Yes, you can use our car for your test, provided you’re fully prepared and have been learning with us.
What are the new 2026 DVSA booking rules?
🆕 Major Changes to Driving Test Bookings (2026)
The DVSA is updating their rules to stop “booking bots” and reduce the backlog. Here is what you need to know:
📅 The Timeline of Changes
31 March 2026: You are now limited to only 2 changes (date, time, or location) per booking. If you need a 3rd change, you must cancel and rebook.
12 May 2026: Instructors and third parties can no longer manage bookings. You must book and manage your own test.
9 June 2026: You can only move your test to one of your 3 nearest test centres.
📍 For Reading Learners
If your test is booked in Reading, you can now only move it to:
Basingstoke
Greenham (Newbury)
Farnborough
⚠️ Important “Fine Print”
10-Day Notice: To get a refund or change your date for free, you must give at least 10 full working days’ notice (up from 3 days).
What DOESN’T count as a change: Updating your address, adding your instructor’s ID, or if the DVSA moves your test (e.g., due to snow).
Test Changes: The test itself is slightly shorter, with only 3 stops instead of 4, and a modified independent driving section.
Trust & Safety
Are you a DVSA-approved driving instructor?
Yes, all lessons are conducted by a fully qualified DVSA-approved instructor.
What is your pass rate?
We’re proud of our strong pass rate and focus on helping you become a safe, confident driver for life—not just pass the test.
GET STARTED TODAY
Ready to Get Started?
Join learners across Reading and Surrounding areas who passed with Easy Pass Driving School. Book your first lesson today – no experience needed!
Rated 5 stars by our students