The theory test — made sane.

No — you can start practical lessons with just your provisional licence. But you must pass theory before you can book the practical test. Clinton recommends starting theory revision early so you can book your practical the moment you're ready.

The DVSA car theory test costs £23 and is booked through gov.uk. Watch out for unofficial third-party sites charging more — only the gov.uk booking is legitimate.

You book through gov.uk and choose your nearest DVSA theory test centre. It's a 50-minute, two-part test: multiple choice (50 questions, 43 to pass) plus hazard perception (14 video clips, 44/75 to pass).

Most learners revise for 4–6 weeks alongside practical lessons. The hazard perception clips reward little-and-often practice — 15 minutes a day beats one big session.

Theory revision is self-study, but Clinton ties practical lessons to the theory syllabus — meaning roundabouts, junctions and observation drills you do on lessons reinforce what you're reading. We'll also pace your progress so you book the practical at the right moment.