Frequently asked questions
If your question is not answered here, get in touch and a person will reply.
Questions
Pricing and payment
How much do driving lessons cost in Birmingham?
Manual lessons start at £36 per hour and automatic lessons at £38 per hour. Booking a block of hours brings the hourly rate down - full prices are on our Prices page, and there are no booking fees on top.
Booking and cancellation
How do you choose my instructor?
When you send a request we match it against instructors who cover your postcode, teach the transmission you want, and are free at the times you have given us. Our team reviews the shortlist, proposes one instructor, and confirms with you once they accept. You are never assigned to someone who cannot actually fit you in.
Can I change or cancel a lesson?
Yes - free of charge with at least 48 hours' notice. Inside 48 hours the lesson is normally charged, because the slot cannot usually be refilled. Get in touch if something urgent has happened and we will look at it properly.
Driving lessons
Do you pick me up from home?
Yes. Lessons normally start and finish at your home, your workplace or your college, as long as it is inside the area your instructor covers.
How many lessons will I need?
It varies a great deal. The DVSA suggests most learners need around 45 hours of professional tuition plus private practice, but some need fewer and some need more. Your instructor will give you an honest estimate after the first couple of lessons.
Do you teach in automatic cars?
Yes. Several of our instructors teach in automatics. Bear in mind that passing in an automatic gives you an automatic-only licence.
Driving test
Can I use my instructor's car for my test?
In most cases yes, subject to your instructor's availability on the day and their assessment that you are ready. Please agree it well in advance.
Instructor training
What practical instructor training do you offer?
We deliver practical, in-car instructor training: ADI Part 2 driving ability and mocks, Part 3 instructional ability and mocks, PDI coaching, observed teaching, Standards Check preparation and practical CPD. We focus on the in-car work rather than selling Part 1 theory courses.
Do I need to have passed Part 1 before training with you?
For Part 2 training you will normally have passed Part 1, since that is what lets you book the Part 2 test. We ask about it only to understand where you are - we do not sell a Part 1 theory course.
Can I train in my own car?
For most practical instructor training, yes, provided the car is roadworthy, insured for the purpose and suitable for the training. For Part 2 work a dual-control car is usually better, and your trainer can supply one.
Are Passwise training records official DVSA records?
No. The training hours and notes we record are Passwise's own records, kept so you and your trainer can see your progress. They are not submitted to, or recognised by, the DVSA as official records.
Ready to get started?
Enter your postcode and we will check which instructors cover your area.
Training to become an instructor? See our practical instructor training