The Eleven Eleven Blog
Practical tips, local guides and honest advice from Tomas.
How many driving lessons do you actually need before your test?
The DVSA says 45 hours, but the real answer depends entirely on you. Here's what Tomas has learned from teaching hundreds of students in South West London.
The Tolworth driving test route: what to expect
A detailed breakdown of the Tolworth DVSA test centre routes, the junctions examiners watch most closely, and how to prepare.
The Morden driving test route explained
What to expect on your practical test at Morden DVSA test centre, including the roads, roundabouts and faults examiners look for.
Manual vs automatic driving lessons: the honest guide
The real differences between learning in manual and automatic. How to choose, and why the answer is different for everyone.
What to expect on your very first driving lesson
Nervous about your first lesson? Here is exactly what happens, what you will and won't be expected to do, and how to prepare.
Passing your theory test: a practical guide
Everything you need to know about the theory test: format, how to revise, when to take it, and the mistakes most people make.
The independent driving section: what it is and how to ace it
Since 2017, 20 minutes of your practical test involves following a sat-nav or road signs without instruction. Here is how to handle it.
How long does it take to learn to drive? A realistic timeline
From first lesson to test pass: realistic timelines for different types of learners, and what affects how fast you progress.
Test day nerves: how to manage them and what actually helps
Almost every candidate feels nervous on test day. Here is what actually helps, what does not, and how to give yourself the best chance.
Is Pass Plus worth it? An honest assessment
Pass Plus can reduce your insurance and build real driving confidence. But it is not right for everyone. Here is what you need to know.
Learning to drive in Surbiton, Tolworth and Epsom: what to know
A guide to the driving environment across Surbiton, Tolworth, Berrylands and Epsom for learners based in the KT postcode area.
How driving examiners mark your test: what they're actually looking for
A clear explanation of the fault marking system, the difference between minor and serious faults, and what examiners focus on most.
How to choose the right driving instructor
What to look for when choosing a driving instructor. The questions to ask, the red flags to watch for, and why the relationship matters.
Driving an electric vehicle: how it differs from a petrol car
More new drivers are moving straight into EVs. Here is what is genuinely different and what to expect if your first car is electric.
Night driving: tips for new drivers
New drivers are statistically more at risk at night. Here is why and what to do about it, from someone who has taught hundreds of learners.
The four parking manoeuvres on the driving test: a complete guide
Parallel park, bay park forward, bay park reverse, or pull up on the right: exactly what each involves and how to practise them.
Smart motorways explained: what every driver needs to know
All-lane running, variable speed limits, refuge areas: a clear guide to smart motorways and how to drive on them safely.