Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about learning to drive with Galaxy Driving Academy.
Getting Started
6 questionsIt depends on your preference and driving goals. Passing your test in a manual car normally allows you to drive both manual and automatic cars. Passing in an automatic car limits you to automatic vehicles unless you later pass a manual driving test.
You can usually start learning to drive a car on public roads at 17. You can apply for your first provisional driving licence from the age of 15 years and 9 months. Some people receiving qualifying mobility benefits can start at 16.
Yes. You normally need a valid provisional driving licence to take driving lessons on public roads. You must also meet the legal eyesight requirements.
No. You can begin driving lessons before passing your theory test. However, you must pass your theory test before booking your practical driving test.
Absolutely. Our lessons are suitable for complete beginners. Your instructor can introduce you to the vehicle controls, road awareness and essential driving skills at a pace appropriate to your experience.
Yes, provided you follow the legal requirements. Your supervisor must be at least 21 and have held a full licence for the relevant vehicle type for at least three years. You must also have appropriate insurance and display L plates.
Driving Lessons & Courses
6 questionsWe provide driving lessons in Cardiff, Wales. Enter your postcode when making a booking enquiry, and our team will confirm whether your location is covered.
Our standard single-lesson package is two hours. We also offer multi-hour packages, intensive lessons and refresher lessons. Visit our Prices page for current options.
Pick-up arrangements may be available within our teaching area. Please provide your preferred location when booking so your instructor can confirm the arrangements.
There is no fixed legal number of professional driving lessons. Everyone progresses differently, depending on their experience, confidence and driving skills. Your instructor can help assess when you are ready.
Yes. Our intensive lessons offer a more concentrated learning approach. Please contact us to discuss availability and the most suitable arrangement for your needs.
Yes. Refresher lessons are suitable for qualified drivers who want to rebuild confidence, improve specific skills or return to driving after a break.
Theory & Practical Driving Tests
7 questionsThe car theory test includes two parts: multiple-choice questions and hazard perception. You must pass both parts to pass the theory test.
Your theory test pass certificate is valid for two years. You must pass your practical driving test within that period, or you will need to take and pass the theory test again.
You can book your practical driving test through the official GOV.UK service once you have passed your theory test. Test availability depends on the test centre.
This may be possible, subject to your instructor's approval, vehicle availability, appropriate insurance and the vehicle meeting DVSA test requirements. Please discuss this with us before arranging your test.
The car driving test normally includes an eyesight check, vehicle safety questions and approximately 35 minutes of driving. You will also be asked to drive independently and complete a reversing exercise.
You can take the test again. In Great Britain, you must wait at least 10 working days before retaking a car practical driving test. Your test result will help identify areas to improve.
Yes. You can take your practical test in an automatic car. If you pass, your licence will normally allow you to drive automatic vehicles only, unless you later qualify to drive manual vehicles.
Bookings, Prices & Payments
6 questionsPrices depend on your chosen lesson type and package. Visit our Prices page for current automatic and manual lesson prices, including any available offers.
Select your preferred lesson type and package on our Booking page, complete the enquiry form and submit it. You will receive an email containing your booking reference and payment instructions.
We currently accept bank transfers. Your booking confirmation email will include the amount due, bank account details and your unique GDA payment reference. Please use the exact reference provided.
After making your bank transfer, open your booking confirmation email and select "Upload Payment Receipt". Follow the instructions to upload your receipt securely.
Our team will review your receipt and verify that the funds have reached the bank account. Once your payment is verified, you will receive a Payment Confirmed email. Your instructor will then contact you to arrange your lessons.
Please contact our customer service team as early as possible if you need to cancel or rearrange a lesson. Any applicable cancellation or refund conditions will follow our published booking terms and your statutory rights.
