Joe's Driver Training Blog
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adminJoe: Posted on Saturday, February 18, 2012 5:27 PM
Your 1st Driving Lesson! If you are new to driving lessons you may not know what to expect, or how to prepare yourself for your 1st session behind the wheel of a car. Reading through the following questions and answers could help you to avoid some of the pitfalls and make your 1st driving lesson run a little more smoothly. Do I need to pass the theory test before I can take driving lessons? No, if you are 17 or older and hold a valid provisional driving licence entitling you to drive a car (category B) you have all you need to begin driving lessons on the road. Your driving instructor will advise you about ways to prepare for your theory test. Joe's Driver Training offers free theory support including free theory test pro ...free to anyone who wants to study for the theory! Please feel free to use this service! What should I bring with me? You should bring both parts of your provisional driving licence! You should also check beforehand that you have signed your licence and that all details are correct.Your driving instructor will want to check these details! If you need to wear glasses or contacts, make sure you do! Your driving instructor will want to check your eyesight by asking you to read a standard vehicle number plate at a distance of 20 meters! To save embarrassment you should also make sure you bring payment for your driving lesson. What footwear should I wear? Sensible footwear! You will want to be able to operate the foot controls with ease! Heavy work boots, crocks, ugg boots, flip flops and the likes, can all cause problems during early driving lessons. Once you get familiar with the foot controls you can be less selective about what you wear! What clothing should I wear? Comfortable clothing that won't restrict your ability to operate the cars controls! A driving instructors car is their office! If you have just finished work somewhere like a farm, garage or paintshop, you should make sure you remove your overalls and that both you, and your footwear is clean before you enter the car! Will I be expected to know anything about driving? No, not at all! If it's your 1st driving lesson your instructor will not expect you to know anything about driving. You could prepare yourself by asking a friend or family member to tell you about the pedals, gears, steering etc. You may also find these youtube videos informative, as well as reading through the official highway code . Will I be expected to drive straight away? No, not if you have never driven a car before! When learning a new skill like driving, it's important that you learn at a pace that's right for you. Learning to drive should be an enjoyable experience! If your pickup location isn't suitable your driving instructor will find a place nearby. Everything will be explained to you in detail! You will be allowed to learn at your own pace! If you would like more information about driving lessons in Ballymena or the learning to drive process, please visit my main website ...here>> or Call Joe today! on 07799 497 471 Please feel free to comment and share! |
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adminJoe: Posted on Friday, February 17, 2012 10:33 PM
Dealing with emergency vehicles Sooner or later every driver will find themselves in a situation where they have to deal with emergency vehicles. If this happens during your driving lessons, your driving instructor will be able to tell you what you should do. This kind of situation does not always arise during a course of driving lessons! For many their 1st ever encounter with an emergency vehicle will be after they have passed their driving test! Watching this short video will help you to understand how to respond safely! What you should and should not do! What the driver of the emergency vehicle will expect from you! If you would like more information about driving lessons in Ballymena or the learning to drive process, please visit my main website ...here>> or call me today! on 07799 497 471 Please feel free to share! |
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adminJoe: Posted on Monday, February 06, 2012 10:48 PM
Learn how you can save on fuel! with Driving Lessons in Ballymena With fuel prices continually on the rise a car is now more expensive to run than ever before.We can do little about rising fuel costs but there's a lot we can do to cut down on our own fuel consumption! There's an old saying "look after the pennies and the pounds will look after themselves" that's what eco friendly driving is all about. A few adjustments here and there can soon mount up to a considerable saving, especially over time! Before you drive! Simple things like checking the condition of your tyres and ensuring that they're inflated to the correct pressures or, removing a roof rack that's not being used will not only, help reduce drag and improve fuel consumption, but will also reduce the amount of harmful emissions your car exhausts into the atmosphere. The way you drive! I often hear people complaining that their car is hard on fuel when they haven't considered that low miles per gallon might be more to do with how they actually drive the car, than the car itself! Short journeys, harsh acceleration, heavy braking, speeding, over revving the engine ...all contribute to higher fuel consumption! Developing habits! For example: when driving in town, many drivers will think little about racing off from traffic lights only to brake hard for the next set of lights, or queue of traffic that may only be a short distance ahead! SHORT BURSTS! + HEAVY BRAKING! = MORE FUEL USED! You can save on fuel by developing the good habit of: LOOKING AND THINKING WELL AHEAD! - PLANNING! - DRIVING ACCORDINGLY! Learning to drive isn't just about getting to grips with the handling of a car! More importantly, it's about developing good habits and attitudes that will equip you for a lifetime of safe and happy motoring! These are just some examples of how you could save on fuel by changing the way you drive and maintain your car. If you would like more information about eco friendly driving methods or driving lessons in Ballymena, visit main site ...here>> or Call me today! on 07799 497 471 |
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adminJoe: Posted on Friday, February 03, 2012 8:37 PM
When you're ready to begin taking driving lessons in Ballymena, you will notice there are a lot of Driving Instructors operating in the area. So... how can you choose a driving instructor and what should you look for? You could ask your friends who they learned with and if they would recommend them. You should also ask if they enjoyed their driving lessons and if they were well prepared for the driving test. You could compare driving instructors online by viewing their websites and checking out customer reviews. It is against the law for an unqualified person to charge you for driving lessons. Be sure that the driving instructor you choose is DOE approved. DOE approved driving instructors are required to display their instructor licence on their person or in their car. If you haven't seen their licence don't be afraid to ask! A list of approved driving instructors can be found on the Driver Vehicle Agency website. Be wary of driving instructors who offer cheap, multi lesson deals at knock down prices. Unfortunately some (not all) will make up the cost by limiting the amount of driving you do. You might find you are parked at the road side for much of each driving lesson. This in turn will lead to poor value and even more driving lessons in the end. It is very important that you feel at ease with your driving instructor. It is equally important that you feel at ease with the car being used for your driving lessons. The driving school car should be clean and fresh, safe, comfortable and easy to drive. It is never acceptable for your driving instructor to shout, swear or be angry with you! At times, they may need to be firm and authoritative but only in the interest of safety. You are a paying customer! You are entitled to a professional service! DO NOT settle for anything less! If you are not happy with your driving instructor you should leave them. For more information about learning to drive, choosing an instructor and driving lessons in Ballymena...here>> Or... call me today on 07799 497 471 |
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adminJoe: Posted on Saturday, January 28, 2012 6:12 PM
Joe's Driver Training is a Ballymena based driving school that offers driving lessons with an approved driving instructor in Ballymena and surrounding areas. Your driving instructor (Joe Herbison) is a fully qualified DOE Approved Driving Instructor who believes that learning to drive should be taken seriously yet still be enjoyable. All driving lessons are built around the needs of each individual and are conducted in a patient, friendly atmosphere in a dual controlled Toyota Yaris diesel. Student, block booking, and longer lesson discounts are available with free theory test pro and a free local pick up service. For more information about learning to drive in Ballymena, driving lessons or the driving test, visit main site...here>> |
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adminJoe: Posted on Friday, January 06, 2012 9:50 PM
You've Passed! Joe's Driver Training is pleased to congratulate Moira McNeill on passing her driving test in Ballymena. Well done Moira! Wishing you many years of Safe and Happy Motoring! |
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adminJoe: Posted on Thursday, December 22, 2011 9:57 PM
Joe's Driver Training provides affordable driving lessons and courses with a reliable driving instructor in Ballymena. For more information about driving lessons in Ballymena, please call Joe on 07799 497 471 |
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adminJoe: Posted on Sunday, December 11, 2011 8:17 PM
Affordable Driving Lessons in Ballymena Joe's Driver Training is an independent, Ballymena based driving school,offering affordable driving lessons in Ballymena and surrounding areas. Quality driving lessons with a fully qualified, Approved Driving Instructor who covers the Ballymena area. Begin driving lessons in Ballymena 2012 and benefit from the following: Unlimited Block booking discounts Free local pick up service Longer lesson discounts Free theory support Student discounts Cash rewards For more information call Joe on 07799 497 471 or contact...here>> |
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admin Joe: Posted on Tuesday, November 22, 2011 10:26 PM
Driving Lesson Gift Vouchers Available as single or multiple driving lessons in Ballymena. The perfect Christmas or Birthday gift! Learn a skill for life! Pass the driving test! Gain independence! Joe's Driver Training provides driving lessons and intensive driving courses with an Approved Driving Instructor in Ballymena. Refresher driving lessons are also available to any full licence holder who wants to brush up on existing skills or build confidence when driving on todays busy roads. All driving lessons are conducted in a patient, friendly, atmosphere and are built around the needs of each individual. For more information about driving lessons in Ballymena please call 07799 497 471 |
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admin Joe: Posted on Sunday, October 23, 2011 10:52 AM
Looking for Driving Lessons in Ballymena? Really want to pass your driving test quickly,1st time! Satisfied customers recommend Joe's Driver Training for a reliable Driving Instructor in Ballymena...read more>> Joe's Driver Training provides a hassle free service...your Driving Instructor will support you through the complete learning to drive process which even includes applying for your provisional driving licence and free theory support! Joe's Driver Training offers patient friendly driving lessons in Ballymena and surrounding areas. All levels of ability are catered for with driving lessons that are built around the needs of each individual. Joe's Driver Training is an independent driving school in Ballymena operated by an Approved Driving Instructor...driving lessons are with same, fully qualified, DOE Approved Driving Instructor. The driving school car is a Toyota Yaris diesel which is safe, comfortable and very easy to drive...your Driving Instructor has dual controls for safety. If you would like more information about the learning to drive process, driving lessons in Ballymena or would like to speak to an Approved Driving Instructor in person please feel free to contact Joe. Call 07799 497 471 for more details |
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admin Joe: Posted on Wednesday, September 07, 2011 5:13 PM
Free Introduction! Thinking about driving lessons in Ballymena? Do you know what to expect? When it comes to driving lessons many people don't know what to expect with some confused about the learning to drive process. It would be beneficial if you could meet with a Driving Instructor in person before you begin driving lessons. It would also be good to know exactly what to expect and get an idea of the costs and commitment before you begin the learning to drive process. Why not take advantage of this totally free offer where you can: >> Meet an Approved Driving Instructor in person and check out the driving school car. >> Get a full explanation of the learning to drive process. >> Advice on how to best prepare for your theory test. >> Ask as many questions as you like before taking driving lessons. >> Know exactly what to expect from your driving lessons. >> Find out how to cut costs and get the best value from your driving lessons. Parents welcome! you can bring a family member or friend, includes free local pick up and return to home, school or work! Please note - no purchase necessary - this offer is free and open to individuals or two persons at one time. Joe's Driver Training is an independent driving school in Ballymena that offers driving lessons and intensive driving courses with an approved driving instructor. If you would like more information about driving lessons in Ballymena or to book a free introduction please contact here>> or call Joe on: 07799 497 471 offer subject to availability |
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admin Joe: Posted on Wednesday, August 17, 2011 2:55 PM
Joe's Driver Training is pleased to congratulate Miss Steph McClure on passing her driving test in Ballymena. Steph achieved the highest possible standard passing her driving test 1st time with zero driving faults...Well done Steph! |
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admin Joe: Posted on Saturday, August 13, 2011 8:50 PM
Driving Lessons in Ballymena Joe's Driver Training is an Independent Driving School offering driving lessons in Ballymena with an Approved Driving Instructor. Driving lessons are available in Ballymena at all levels of ability, Joe's Driver Training caters for complete beginners until driving test success and beyond. From the very first driving lesson until the day you take your driving test, Joe's Driver Training will teach you all the skills required to pass your driving test and become a safe driver for life! Quality driving lessons are an important part of the learning to drive process, driving lessons with Joe's Driver Training are always with an Approved Driving Instructor and are built around the needs of each individual. Your Driving lessons will take place in a patient friendly atmosphere, the driving school car is the modern Toyota Yaris D4D diesel, which is dual controlled and air conditioned for your comfort and safety. During your driving lessons in Ballymena, your Driving Instructor will teach you how to be a safe, economic and independent driver, you will also be taught how to reverse with confidence and know exactly what to expect on the day of your driving test. For more about driving lessons in Ballymena contact Joe on 07799 497 471 or click ...here>> |
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admin Joe: Posted on Wednesday, July 27, 2011 12:06 AM
Independent Driving Test in Ballymena...Passed! 27 June 2011 saw the introduction of independent driving to the driving test in N.I. Joe's Driver Training is pleased to congratulate the following people on passing the Independent Driving Test in Ballymena: Mr C. Killough 14,July 2011 Miss N. Donaghy 14,July 2011 Miss N. Donnelly 19,July 2011 Mr C. Fulton 26,July 2011 Mr D. Chalkright 26,July 2011 Miss G. Harper 3rd,August 2011 Miss C. Percy 10th August 2011 Miss T. McCartney 15th August 2011 Miss S. McClure 17th August 2011 Well done folks! |
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admin Joe: Posted on Wednesday, June 29, 2011 11:03 PM
On June 27th 2011 the DVA introduced independent driving as part of the practical driving test in all areas of Northern Ireland. What is independent driving? Independent driving is a new section of the driving test where candidates will be asked to follow a series of directions, road signs, or a combination of both. The examiners also use schematic drawings to backup the series of directions that have been given. How long will the independent section last? The Independent section of the driving test will last about 10 minutes. What if I forget where to go? If you forget the directions you have been given you are allowed to ask the examiner to repeat them. (It should be noted that you must ask at a safe and convenient time and not when a change of signal, position or direction could confuse other road users. An examiners job is to conduct the test, this includes giving directions and examining your driving skills, they are not there as instructors and only give driving instructions to prevent a dangerous situation developing...if a driving examiner is forced to give instruction on test it will be in the interest of safety, it could be recorded as: Examiner Took Action - Verbal, the result would be test failure.) In short - Ask in good time! What if I take a wrong turn? If a wrong turn is taken it wont have any bearing on the result of the test as long as a driving fault has not been committed, the examiner will go back to giving step by step directions until you are back on course. Are there any other changes to the test? Yes, because the independent section lasts about 10 minutes candidates will now only be asked to perform 1 reversing manoeuvre instead of 2, the length of the test remains unchanged! Should I be worried about independent driving? No, not if you have been well prepared and had plenty of practise driving independently. Independent driving is designed to monitor a test candidate making their own decisions, unaided and without prompts. Example Below is an example of an Independent driving diagram that I have used during driving lessons and mock driving tests in Ballymena, this is my own production and has not been copied from an official driving test although it is very similar to the type the examiners use. This diagram is shown to the pupil at the side of the road when the series of directions are given, the pupil is also given an opportunity to repeat the directions back to me before moving off.  Directions: Move off when ready and follow the road ahead until you reach the roundabout At the roundabout follow the road ahead taking the 2nd exit sign-posted for... At the crossroads turn left At the next crossroads turn left In the new road drive ahead until you pass 2 side roads on the left then pull up in a safe, convenient and legal place After completing this series of directions another diagram would be shown, each beginning where the last ended, about 3 in total. You can watch a video about independent driving on my videos page...here>> Joe's Driver Training is a driving school in Ballymena operated by a DOE Approved Driving Instructor who teaches independent driving. If you would like more information about the driving test, driving lessons or independent driving in Ballymena please feel free to contact Joe on 07799 497 471 |
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