New Learners will be broken in gently, with the first few lessons focusing on the basic controls of the vehicle, and moving on through the syllabus (as detailed below) once you are comfortable with what you have achieved so far. You set your own pace, your instructor will not rush you along or waste your time, just use proven coaching techniques to nudge you in the right direction, gently correct faults and ensure you develop into a confident and competent driver.
The DSA syllabus covers the following aspects, all of which will be addressed over the course of your lessons;
- Cockpit Drill – the checks and adjustments that should be made before starting the engine
- Vehicle Safety Checks – also known as ‘show me, tell me’, you are required to be able to demonstrate some basic knowledge and understanding of car maintenance
- Controls and Instruments – understanding the function of, and being able to safely use, all the relevant controls and switches in the cockpit
- Moving Away and Stopping – being able to start and stop safely using MSM (mirror-signal-manoeuvre) and PSL (position-speed-look) routines, keeping full control either on the flat or on a hill.
- Road Positioning – maintaining a safe distance from and understanding the spatial needs of other vehicles and road obstacles, as well as correct lane discipline.
- Use of Mirrors – knowing which mirrors to check and when, and being aware of blind spots and how to deal with them.
- Signalling – understanding when it is appropriate to signal, and when doing so would confuse other road users.
- Anticipation and Planning – being able to identify emerging hazards and respond to them safely through constant observation.
- Use of Speed – understanding what speed limits apply to a given type of road, and why it may be prudent at times (weather, visibility, possible hazards) to lower your speed below this limit.
- Other Traffic – being able to deal safely and confidently with meeting, crossing and overtaking other vehicles by understanding right of way and center lane markings.
- Junctions – understanding the different types of road junctions and being able to negotiate them safely and effectively.
To begin learning to drive (on public roads), you must be in possession of a provisional drivers license and be 17 years of age. For more info on starting the learning process, please see our Info and Advice section.