Frequently Asked Questions
How do I begin?
The client can purchase the package of hours through secure online shop via Stripe or PayPal, pay direct via bank transfer or cash on the day.
To book a lesson slot for Mary’s Driving School, the client can be set up as a new student on the booking system and they then gain access to the online booking system allowing them to choose the days and times that best suit them (subject to availability and the smooth running of the business). Otherwise the client can get in touch with Mary directly and we can chat through and book in according to the client’s needs.
Prior to the lesson a text message reminder will be sent to all clients 48 hours and 24 hours before lesson confirming time and meeting location, to allow time for student cancellations. There is a 48 hour cancellation policy.
What is the cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel your appointment, we respectfully request at least 48 hours’ notice. Any cancellations or reschedule made less than 48 hours will result in a cancellation fee.
When can I start my lessons?
All lessons can begin once the client has received their learners permit in the post from the NDLS, this process usually takes two weeks and they can book ahead for their first lesson by the two weeks on the booking platform in anticipation of delivery of permit. But the learner must always have their permit with them for all lessons or driving on the road.
Whose car can I use?
Initially lessons can be carried out in the instructors dual controlled manual car, this enables the learner to gain confidence in their driving ability and road sense, knowing they are supported by the instructor who can take over control of the car at any stage for them. The instructor’s car can be used for all stages of learning and right to the day of the test also.
Under certain circumstances, customers may want to receive lessons in their own/family vehicle. This is a good idea where the car will be used for a Driver’s Test. It is also a good idea when a learner has a new car and wishes to familiarise themselves with it prior to testing. Mary’s Driving School is able to offer customers training in their vehicle, provided the vehicle is registered, roadworthy and correctly insured.
Prior to any training or testing being conducted in the customer’s vehicle, the instructor should inspect the vehicle for its road worthiness. The inspection should include, but is not limited to, a check of the following items;
- The tax, insurance and NCT discs are valid, current, intact and displayed appropriately
- The tyres:
- Are correctly inflated (air pressures must reflect the manufacturer’s recommendation as a minimum).
- Have appropriate levels of tread
- Are not damaged
- All indicators, headlights and brake lights are working
- Seats and seat belts are in good working order and are not damaged or twisted.
Can I do automatic lessons?
Mary’s Driving School can do automatic lessons in the clients own automatic car, unfortunately no dual controlled automatic car is currently on offer but Mary has a number of years’ experience with both manual and automatic lessons and can fulfil both to the highest standards and prepare all candidates for the driving test.
How many lessons do I need?
It very much varies per individual, but the minimum requirement set out by the Road Safety Authority – RSA to book your test is the candidate must hold a permit for a minimum of 6 months and have fully completed their EDT program. All tests can be booked on the RSA website www.rsa.ie
What precautions are in place for COVID-19?
On my COVID-19 page I have listed what all clients can expect on the run up to their lesson, what the client needs to do before, during and after the lesson. For the safety of all clients and users of the car, I request everyone to wear a mask for the duration of the lesson unless unable to do so due to medical reasons. More details can be found on the COVID-19 page.