From April 1 the price of a practical test will increase to £56.50

Last week we asked YOU to send in your driving test questions – this week, Dominic Sacco, who passed his test last week, answers them.

Q: How many lessons do most people need before they take their test?
Adele Roberts

A: On average, new drivers take 45 hours of lessons and 22 hours of private practice before passing. Ensure you and your instructor are happy with your level of driving before booking a test.

Q: How much are the theory and practical tests?
Daniel Grove

A: It’s currently £28 to sit a theory test and £48.50 for the practical test.

From April 1 the price of a theory test will increase to £30, and a practical test will cost £56.50.

Q: I’ve had two tests so far, both of which I’ve failed due to nerves. This is costing me dearly – how can I improve?
Abraham Aweda

A: Take a look at our celebrity driving test tips page for advice from Fifth Gear presenter Tiff Needell and used car expert Jason Dawe.

There’s also our driving test nightmares article which features tips from everyone on the Auto Trader editorial team. In general, it pays to relax and get plenty of sleep the night before.

Q: Why is the waiting list for tests so long?
Emily Roberts

A: The problem, unfortunately, is one of sheer volume. More than two million drivers book practical tests each year, so a fair queuing system is in place to ensure everyone waits an equal length of time.

Call the DSA on 0300 200 1122 to check for cancellations and book a new test. Places are filled on a first come first served basis, so you may have to call every day until a cancellation appears, but take it from me - it's worth it.

Q: Do driving instructors expect learners to have a total lack of experience?
Alex Flahive

A: Qualified driving instructors are trained to teach students from all skill levels – whether they’ve had a few lessons, are confident on the road or are complete beginners.

Make sure your instructor is an approved driving instructor (ADI) – check for a green certificate on the learner car’s windscreen.

Q: Where can I practice the basics of starting and stopping my car?
David Gill

A: Your instructor should know a variety of safe places to pull up and move off from. Quiet or empty roads may be a good place to start practicing.

Q: What advice can you offer me about the hazard perception test? And when should I book a practical test after the theory?
Chris Maidment

A: You can practice with the “Official Guide to Hazard Perception”, but I passed using the “Driving Test Success” DVD which includes information on all tests. Read the Highway Code regularly to get a better understanding of hazards.

For more information, visit our hazard perception test page.

Only book your practical test when you and your instructor feel you’re ready to take the test. I don’t advise rushing through lessons – just relax. With time, patience and practice, your skills will improve.

Q: Is anything being done about driving test cancellations? I have lost a lot of money from taking extra lessons and time off work.
Tom Ridley

A: Test cancellations are rare and inconvenient, but you won't lose your money. Call the DSA’s booking number on 0300 200 1122 and see if any spaces have been made available at a more suitable time.

You can also fill in an expenses claims form to reclaim money spent on hiring your instructor’s car on the test day.

Q: Six years ago I passed my driving test again, following a driving ban. I originally passed 15 years ago but was without a license for one year.

I want car insurance but how long should I say I’ve held my license for?
Matthew Bridges

A: Technically you have owned a license for 14 years, but your current license is six years old. The insurance company will need to know about this, so explain the situation in detail to them.

Q: Who is the coolest, most suave and handsome person to ever pass a driving test? I thought it might be me, but surely David Beckham has passed his test?
Michael Langdon

A: David Beckham certainly has passed his driving test. In fact, his SUV was for sale on Auto Trader. Whether he is the most handsome person to take a test however, is a matter of opinion.

Q: I learnt to drive with Top Gear's The Stig in a Ferrari F355, but my examiner failed me for hesitating during a reverse parking manoeuvre. I tried to appeal but the DSA said the examiner’s decision is final.

Where do learner drivers stand in this situation?
Dean Ross

A: An examiner’s decision cannot be overturned, but if you think the test wasn’t carried out in accordance with regulations, you do have the right to appeal.

You can do this by writing to the Sector Manager or appealing to a Magistrates Court. Bear in mind the court can only look at whether the test followed regulations and not the test result.