At BarryDench.com, we've done our best to create a Web site that anticipates and satisfies our customers' needs. With that  goal in mind, we've compiled a list of frequently asked questions. If you do not find an answer to your question here, contact us at 0800 652 8147 or email: barry@barrydench.com.

How many lessons will I need?

Each individual is different with different aptitudes and abilities. As a general guide, at age 17/18 the national average is 30 hours. Somewhere between 30 & 40 hours of tuition is usually the norm although we have had test successes with as little as 20 hours tuition..

Private practice can be beneficial and add to the new driver’s experience and reduce the number of lessons. (See below, “Can my Mum/Dad etc. help me?”)

“Is it true the DSA has a daily/weekly quota for passes and failures”

This is just a myth. When you think about it, the DSA want to encourage good drivers, their motto is “Safe Driving For Life”. This is about the quality and calibre of the test candidates. If they are well prepared and ready they stand a much greater chance of passing the practical test first time.

“I have heard that Bournemouth Test Centre makes it very tough to pass?”

Another myth I am afraid! DSA examiners are all trained to the same exacting standards. If any centre has a lower pass rate than another, this says more about the quality of the tuition in the area than the examiners. If candidates are put forward too early to “see if they pass” or if candidates insist on going too early, then the first time pass rate will be low.

“Can my Mum/Dad etc. help me?”

Yes, definitely, but they must be at least 21 years of age and have held a full driving license for 3 years in order to accompany you. The more experience you gain whilst training will make a major contribution to your own confidence and make you a good driver. However, parents and friends need to know the best way they can help you and support the professional training you are taking.

This web site is recommended reading for both you and the driver who will accompany you. www.helpingldrivers.com Don’t forget to have yourself added on the insurance as a learner driver!

“I get very nervous about tests and do not perform well during them.
Where can I get some help?”

This is more of a widespread problem than you would imagine. About one in three drivers suffer badly with nerves. There is a positive step you can take that will help minimise the effects of nerves. have a look at this web site:- Click here to view more details

“What standards does your school maintain?”

We subscribe to the DSA voluntary code of practice. To read it, click the logo.

“What are the main reasons for learners not passing the driving test?”

The main reasons learner drivers do not pass their test are:

Observation at Junctions: lack of, or ineffective observation and judgment.
Reverse Parallel Parking: lack of, or ineffective observation or accuracy.
Use of Mirrors: Not checking correctly and/or not acting on what is seen.
Reversing Around a Corner: Ineffective observation or lack of accuracy.
Incorrect Use of Signals: Not canceling or giving misleading signals (e.g. too early.)
Moving Away Safely: Lack of or ineffective observation.
Incorrect Positioning: At roundabouts or bends.
Poor Steering Control: Steering too early or too late.
Incorrect Positioning: When turning right at junctions and in one way streets.
Inappropriate Speed: Going too slow or being hesitant.

“I have a question that is not answered here. What can I do?”

Call us FREE on 0800 652 8147. If you get our answering system, please leave a message and we will get back to you. We check our answering system regularly.

0800 652 8147

At BarryDench.com, the customer always comes first. 

“Your driving needs are our focus.”