Gulp! Here goes then...

First time behind the wheel but I've been assured by my trusty Tutor, Shane Limer from Limer School of Motoring, (pictured left) that there's nothing to worry about! (That's what HE thinks!!!)

If you're a driver think back to how YOU felt when you first got let loose on the Great British Highway. It's far more nerve-racking than sitting behind the Revolution console and broadcasting to thousands of people. I suppose one big difference is that if I 'crash' the computer at work no-one gets hurt!

Before this first venture there were a number of things to get sorted. Here are my Top Tips for anyone considering following my lead and learning to drive:

TIP 1
Apply for your Provisional Licence
Before you can learn to drive a car, or a moped or motorcycle come to that, you must apply for a provisional driving licence. If you already hold a valid full driving licence and want to learn to drive larger vehicles, minibuses or buses you will need to apply for provisional entitlement for these vehicles.

You can apply online by clicking HERE.

You can apply for your provisional driving licence by completing the D1 application form that is available from the DVLA form ordering service or Post Office® branches. You will also need to enclose original documentation confirming your identity, a passport style colour photograph and the fee of £50.00. Send your completed application and payment to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AD or you may be able to use the premium checking service.

TIP 2
Give yourself an advantage...
Download the official DSA theory test products - the closest experience to the real test.

TIP 3
Find a great instructor!
DSA does not recommend individual instructors. To find and choose a driving instructor you can:

• ask your friends and relatives to recommend someone
• look online or in a local business directory
• or go straight to Shane at Limer like I did!

TIP 4
Plan and record how you learn to drive
Research shows that learners who have a combination of professional instruction and private practice do better at the driving test. On average, those who pass have had 47 hours of professional instruction and 20 hours of private practice. Find out how to use a driver's record to plan your learning. Download your 'Drivers Record' HERE.

TIP 5
Subscribe for DSA Email Alerts
The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) has an email alerts service called 'DSA Direct'. It will keep you informed of the latest news and changes about learning to drive and driving tests. Subscribe HERE.

TIP 6
Check your Eyesight!
Before you start to learn to drive, make sure you know the eyesight rules. If you need to wear glasses or contact lenses to meet the requirements, you must wear them every time you drive. Find out what the rules say and how your eyesight is tested. More information HERE.

TIP 7
Start Saving
When you book your theory or practical driving test direct with the Driving Standards Agency (DSA), you only pay the cost of the test. There is no extra administration or booking fee. Find out how much your theory or practical driving test will cost HERE.