Once you have received your provisional license you can then start to learn to drive. You will need to pass your theory test before you can apply to sit a practical test and the theory test, once passed, is valid for two years. You will need to resit your theory test if you do not pass you practical test before the end of those two years. The Driving Standards Agency recommends 45 hours of professional in-car tuition with a qualified instructor before taking a practical test but that obviously depends on the pupil. Some learners might need to take more lessons (and still fail) and some could take less but pass. It could be possible to get an idea of the number of lessons you might require to get to test standard on an initial assessment lesson with an instructor but if you have a strict budget or time scale to follow it is important you notify them when you book and bear in mind that any indication you get of the number of lessons you might need assumes that you will make the progress anticipated by your instructor from lesson to lesson. Remember that how soon you pass depends on how many lesson each week you are able to have, how long the lessons are and how close together you have your lessons, The amount of private practice you might be able to have from friends or relatives is also very important. A structured lesson syllabus is the most cost-effective way of getting the best from your instructor and if your lessons can be supplemented with time in your own vehicle or the family car this will help you gain valuable extra experience.