Study & Reference
The Syllabus
The official syllabus for learning to drive is logically structured to enable you to learn systematically, building skills as you move through the syllabus. If you are using a Drivers Record or "log book", either the official DSA version, or one supplied by your driving school, you will find the syllabus divided into a series of subjects, which together cover all aspects of driving.
These subjects naturally fall into three groups, driving basics, more complex driving skills, and subjects specific to the theory and Practical driving test.
Therefore we have arranged the syllabus subjects into three modules, and you can access more information by clicking on the links below.
Got a printer?
© MSDriving 2006: You are permitted to print one copy only of each page for your personal use. Some, like the "Module One" pages, will be very useful to newer learners, as you can look at them on a daily basis to refresh your memory between your lessons.
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Book List
The Highway Code:
The "Highway Code" is essential reading. this is the rule-book for driving and contains lots of vital "Do's and Don'ts".
Driving-the Essential Skills:
You will also find "Driving - the Essential Skills" really useful. this is the "how-to-do" book, and is the companion to the Highway Code.
Know Your Traffic Signs:
Another useful book is "Know Your Traffic Signs" this goes into far greater detail on signs and road markings than the Highway Code.
The above are all official publications which are available from the Stationary Office (TSO) and should also be available from all good bookshops. they can be ordered on-line. For prices and availability go to
TSO on-line
and click on the "DSA-Driving" link.
CDs/DVDs
For your theory test, you can buy books with all the questions and answers, from between £6.00 to £12.00. the DSA one is good, but the driving school editions (AA or BSM) are less expensive and actually better in some respects.
Best of all, though, are the CDs/DVDs now available as they also cover the "Hazard Perception" element of the theory Test. these vary between £10.00 and £20.00.
Make sure you buy the most up-to-date version, and try to find one with plenty of practise clips for the Hazard Perception Test.
Online resources
The Highway Code
There is now an online version of The Highway Code.
DSA theory practise
You can register here for the DSA's free online theory practise website.
pass-test.co.uk
You can register here for a free trial online theory practise on the 'pass-test.co.uk' website.