The theory test needs to be passed in order for you to be able to book a driving test. For this reason, the earlier the theory test is taken the better. But this said, you will be missing out a great deal by sitting the theory test before starting your driving lessons with a qualified Instructor.

The reasons for this are:

• Your experience on the road will help in general to reinforce the theory;
• A qualified Instructor can help you with any problems you may encounter with the theory;
• Putting your 'hazard perception' training to use right away on the roads helps the learning process;
• Improved hazard perception skills will go a long way to making you a safer driver;
• Each element of learning safe driving skills depends on being properly prepared and having your driving instructor to help you with the theory elements helps to ensure this.

So the most efficient way of doing things would be to start your studying prior to starting your lessons and then to revise and get the benefit of your driving instructors expertise and the practical experience of what you are learning before taking the actual theory test.

Recommended reading:

There are a lot of books on the shelf in the shops for learner drivers but I recommend sticking to those published by the DSA. It is after all the Driving Standars Agency who set the tests and test you.

The Complete Learner Driver Pack

This contains 1 CD and 2 DVD's for Windows 2000, XP and Vista. It includes every theory test question you could be asked from 1 September 2008 (valid for 2008/09) along with a digital version of the latest edition of The Official Highway Code; the official DSA video clips for the Hazard Perception Test with performance feedback; and finally, a DVD to help you prepare for your practical driving test and reach 'Level 5'. If you use a Mac or prefer the information in book form individual books are available to help you but this pack is the most cost effective way to get (once combined with Driving - The Essential Skills) everything you need for both the theory and practical driving tests.

The Official DSA Complete Learner Driver Pack 2008/09 Edition retails for £29.99 but there is usually over a third off if you order it from Amazon

The Official DSA Guide to Driving - the essential skills

In my opinion, if you only ever have one book about driving it has to be this one. Not one to be passed on after you have your licence or consigned to the charity shop - make sure you keep hold of it for future reference. In fact it would make a perfect gift for friends or family members who have been driving for years! They may think it initially a little unusual but once they start reading it they will be more than grateful and very impressed with your gift finding abilities! Together with The Complete Learner Driver Pack this is all you need to help you to prepare for your driving tests. If you get a theory question wrong look it up here to gain a greater understanding before asking your instructor for help (if you still need to).

The Official DSA Guide to Driving: the essential skills retails for £12.99 and is worth every penny but there is usually a discount on this item with Amazon too and I would recommend getting these two items as soon as you can and if possible, before starting your driving lesson lessons.