Recommended Reading

With a mass of books and CD's all claiming to help you pass your test how do you decide what to buy? The first and most essential book that all road users should have is 'The Highway code.' It is a relatively cheap book and will provide you with essential knowledge for both the theory and practical test.


Preparing for the theory test:

To prepare for the theory questions you can use either computer software, a book, or both. Whatever you choose you should ensure that the software or book is up to date; that currently means that it should cover the new test requirements that came into effect in September 2007.


  • The advantage of using a book is that you can use it anywhere, take it to college or work, read it on the bus or during your lunch break.
  • The advantage of the computer software is that you can try a timed test just like the real thing. You can also read through the questions, but of course you have to sit in front of your computer to do it.

You will also need to practise the hazard perception, which requires that you have access to a computer and suitable software.


Many people find that a combination of a book and CD/DVD work well.


I recommend:

  • the 'Driving Test Success All Tests' DVD pack and
  • The Official Guide to the Theory Test

The practical side of driving

You might think it will be sufficient to simply turn up to the lesson and actually drive, thereby learning to drive through practice. Unfortunately it is not that simple. It takes time to absorb the techniques of control and decision making. To reinforce what you learn during your lessons you should be studying the techniques of driving using books or computer programs.


Probably the simplest and most essential guide is 'The Official Guide to Learning to Drive.' It will tell you what the requirements are for safe driving and for passing your test, and it includes tips from the experts.


A more comprehensive read is 'The Official Guide to Driving: The Essential Skills.' This book will tell you everything you need to know, it is well set out and includes comprehensive coverage of all the maneuvers.


If you choose to buy a CD/DVD, such as the title recommended above, you may find that it will contain considerable help on the practice of driving. For example, the 'Driving Test Success All Tests' DVD pack contains videos and other materials that will aid your understanding of particular techniques.


I recommend:

  • The Official Guide to Learning to Drive. and
  • The Official Guide to Driving: The Essential Skills.

Helping Learners:

It is a sad fact that once people have passed their test they tend to develop a style of driving that is inconsistent with the requirements of the driving test. Parents may well have past their test a good many years ago when the test requirements were very different.


Anyone who plans to take a learner out for practice should ensure that they teach correct techniques rather than pass on bad habits. 'The Official Guide to Helping Learners to Pactise' is therefore an invaluable book.