Driving lnformation

I am here in the UK on a spousal visa and am looking to get my driving license. Can someone point me in a direction to get started. I don't have any idea how to get started or even what the steps and regulations are. Help! Thanks. 

Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but as long as you're insured, you can drive on your US license for up to 12 months.

Look here http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/index.htm for more information.

Yes that is correct. I'm just wondering if I have to go through the whole first time drivers stuff like not driving on motorways and not driving with out a licensed driver and no more than 20 miles from home stuff if I have already been driving on the roads for 3 years(rental cars). And how do I explain this to them. If I can! Thanks

If you have a valid US license, you have 12 months to drive on it just like any other UK licensed driver.  After that, you start from the beginning as a new driver.  If you can, get your UK license before that 12 months ends.

Not sure who you mean you have to 'explain this' to.

As geeta said, you can drive for 12 months on your US licence, but you still have to pass the UK driving tests if you want to continue driving after that. If you haven't passed the tests when the 12 months is up, then you will be treated like a learner driver (no motorways, always accompanied by a UK driver, L plates on the car etc.).

So, your first step will be applying for a provisional licence (which you need in order to take the UK tests).

Then you can study for the theory test, and take it, and after that, you can take the practical test.

It's probably a good idea to take some driving lessons before taking the practical test, so you can 'learn how to pass the test', as they are very specific about what you need to do to pass and most test centres only have about a 45% first-time pass rate.

I would recommend getting started on the UK licence process as soon as you can, as it can potentially take a few months to prepare for and pass all the tests (especially as some test centres can have long waiting times for tests).

Yes. Do prepare for your theory and practical test well. Its not a cheap process and so, so, so, so, so, so, so much more thorough than the US system. I just took my practical a week ago and still can't believe I passed. BY THE SKIN OF MY TEETH. The directgov website will give you all the information you need, but find a good driving instructor as well, if only for a few hours worth of lessons. I can't imagine passing without at least some instruction.

I have already been driving on the roads for 3 years(rental cars).

This means nothing to anyone, unfortunately. You will still have to take the tests and will be classified as a new driver.

I too need to do this, DH wants me to get a license before January as some of the rules are changing (not that I'll ever need to tow something, but apparently if I don't get it before Jan 2013, I'll need a special license to do it!).

So, I started looking for a manual to study and there are TOO many choices. After studying for my Life test via PDF, I REALLY want a paper book this time. But which one do I buy? Do I really need more than one? Is there not just one book to get? I visited the Direct Gov website (http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/LearnerAndNewDrivers/index.htm) and was more confused than ever! Can anyone help me figure out exactly what I need to start studying? I'd really like to get started before I book a lesson.

Thanks,
Shelly

This is the book you need. You can always pick up a second-hand one on Amazon or eBay for less money, but the study guide does differ from year to year. If you have the current edition, you won't be asked anything that's not in the book.

You'll also need to pass your hazard perception test, and that's best done with a DVD or CD-ROM or whatever. You need to practice.

I really miss driving. I drove a school bus in the States, and when hubby was here and I was waiting for my visa I spent a lot of time out and about. I liked just being able to go and do what I want. Its just not worth it to me at the moment. We have one car, a manual transmission (Never driven one myself) and hubby works 45+ minutes away in Winsford. I couldn't use the car during the week at all except at night. Just not worth the insurance costs, but I do miss my independence.    Luckily for me, the bus picks up just around the corner from our house.