Driving lessons: what to expect
A lesson with a professional instructor and a private practice drive do not work the same way.
With a professional driving instructor
The instructor adapts the content to the learner's progress: getting familiar with the vehicle, basic manoeuvres, driving in built-up areas, then faster roads and motorways as confidence increases. They also assess when the learner is ready for the practical test. Only a person holding an authorisation to teach driving may give lessons professionally.
During a private practice drive
An accompanying driver meeting the legal conditions can help the learner progress outside of professional lessons. These practice drives complement the instructor's teaching rather than replace it, except for learner licence categories that allow driving without an accompanying driver - see accompanied driving.
What remains mandatory, regardless of lessons
Two courses are required by law regardless of the number of private or professional lessons taken:
- the first aid course;
- the eight-hour road safety course.
For categories A and A1, a twelve-hour basic practical training is added to these two courses - see is there a minimum number of driving lessons.
Length of a lesson
No standard duration is set by law for category B lessons; the common practice is 45 to 90 minutes per lesson with a professional instructor.