Frequently asked questions
Learning to drive is a big milestone, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
We want to make your lessons enjoyable, confidence-boosting, and stress-free.
Here are some of the questions we’re asked most often, answered by our experienced instructor.
What are the common worries new learners have?
It’s completely normal to feel nervous about starting automatic driving lessons, whatever your age or background. You may even have had lessons before that weren’t quite what you hoped for. At Accelerate School of Motoring, we bring 40 years of professional teaching experience to every lesson.
We keep things calm, friendly and supportive – and we never shout. We’ll work at a pace that feels right for you, so you can enjoy your lessons, build your confidence and feel happy to recommend us to your friends and family.
What do I need before my first automatic driving lesson?
Before your first automatic driving lesson, you’ll need a provisional driving licence. Make sure you’re feeling well too, and wear some sensible shoes so you’re comfortable behind the wheel. When you learn with Accelerate, we’ll provide a dual-control car.
Learning in my own car
If you’re planning to use your own car for practice, whether it’s automatic or manual, just make sure it has the right learner insurance, L plates displayed, and an internal mirror for the person accompanying you. As you’ll be using your own car, the lesson price will be reduced.
What if I can drive but can't secure a test?
You must pass your theory and hazard perception test before you can book a practical driving test.
For this reason, we recommend booking your theory and hazard perception test as soon as you decide to learn to drive. This can help you secure a practical test date within a reasonable timeframe, allowing for your learning journey and avoiding unnecessary delays later on.
Due to ongoing waiting-list delays since COVID-19, it is not unusual to feel ready to drive independently yet still be waiting for a practical test date. This can be particularly challenging if you have switched from learning in a manual car to an automatic.
If you find yourself in this situation, we will do our best to help. Where possible, we can help you exchange your booked test date for an earlier one with a pupil who does not yet feel ready to test, or we can contact alternative driving schools on your behalf.
However, Accelerate will never pressure you to pay for lessons you do not need.
Instead, we will work with you to find a solution that suits your budget. We can structure lessons periodically to help you maintain the skills you have built without breaking the bank.
What are your automatic driving lessons like, and which areas do you cover?
With practical driving test waiting lists being so long right now, we keep our lessons as flexible as possible. Our lessons are usually longer than the standard ones offered by other driving schools, so we’re not limited to one local area or stuck following set test routes.
This gives you a real advantage. If you manage to find an earlier test date at a nearby test centre, you’ll be ready to go without having to worry about being tied to a particular area.
What test centres do you use
We usually use test centres in Featherstone, Lichfield, Stafford, or other nearby locations within easy reach of Cannock.
We cover 95% of the WS postcode area.
Why should I choose Accelerate School of Motoring over other driving schools?
At Accelerate, we’re here to help you become a confident, safe driver for life—not just someone who can pass a driving test. We won’t have you spending endless hours driving in circles around car parks or relying on markers as shortcuts for manoeuvres.
Instead, we focus on building your skills and judgement, so you can handle these exercises confidently in any vehicle, not just the one you learn in. Our approach helps you become a capable, independent driver wherever you go.
What happens if I want to cancel a lesson?
Ready to accelerate your learning?
Take the first step towards gaining your independence and confidence on the road. With our expert instructor and personalised approach, you're in safe hands. Let's get you driving!