Terms and Conditions

Terms

Privacy Policy

Free Service

Payments

Free Service

Theory and Driving Test Bookings

Intensive Driving Courses

Gift Vouchers

Driving Instructor Agreement

 

Terms & Conditions 

  • Countywide Driving School act independently as a driving lesson booking agency and is not VAT registered. All monies paid directly to Countywide Driving School for test fees, booking and administration fees are excluding VAT. This includes all monies paid to the driving instructor.
  • All refunds are subject to a £25 administration fee. 
  • Countywide Driving School endeavours to maintain the information content of this website to the best of its ability. At times and without notice changes can be made to this site in order to maintain up to date information, improve services and change the descriptions of any products, special offers or prices. Such changes can result in typing errors and/or technical inaccuracies.
  • Any person using this Web Site is in agreement to the terms and conditions. Countywide Driving School cannot be held responsible for any person who does not agree to such terms.
  • All information content displayed on this Web Site is subject to copyright to Countywide Driving School and/or the relevant third parties and therefore only allows the printing of such content solely for personal and non-commercial use. Any information printed or downloaded from this site should not be modified, copied, displayed, reproduced, distributed or published without direct permission from Countywide Driving School.
  • Countywide Driving School takes no responsibility for any links that lead to other Web sites that are not under Countywide Driving School direct control and therefore will not accept responsibility or be subject to any liability for the information that third party Web Sites may contain.
  • Cookies - When a user views the Countywide Driving School website, information may be stored on your computer in the form of a “Cookie” or similar. Your computer should give the option to block, receive and store Cookies. Your computer browser normally provides a help screen to guide you through the cookies functionalities.
  • Such terms and conditions relating to any products or services described in this Web Site shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England and Wales. Disputes arising in relation to the same shall, unless otherwise expressly agreed, be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.

Countywide Driving School Ltd Network Services’ Privacy Policy - General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

This privacy policy sets out how Countywide Driving School Ltd uses and protects any information that the customer gives when using this website.

The purpose of this statement is to explain to the customer what personal information Countywide Driving School Ltd collects and how it may be used.

Countywide Driving School Ltd is committed to ensuring that the customers privacy is protected. Should Countywide Driving School Ltd ask the customer to provide certain information by which the customer can be identified when using this website, then you can be assured that it will only be used in accordance with this privacy statement.

Countywide Driving School Ltd strictly adheres to the requirements of the data protection legislation in the UK and therefore is committed to protecting the customers privacy and maintaining the security of any personal information received.

The contents of this policy may change due to important updates. The customers should check this page from time to time to ensure that they are happy with any changes. This policy is effective from 25th May 2018.

Definitions and interpretation

Account data

This refers to whenever a customer makes a booking via the online booking form, by email or telephone you will be asked your name, postal address, pickup address, phone numbers, email address, DOB and provisional licence number.

Data/ personal data

Collectively all information that the customer submits to Countywide Driving School Ltd via this Website. This definition incorporates definitions provided in the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Countywide Driving School Ltd, “we”, “us” or “our”

Countywide Driving School Ltd, registered company number 03555624. Registered office is at Tollgate, Peacehaven, East Sussex, BN10 8ED.

European Economic Area (EEA)

The area in which the Agreement on the EEA provides for the free movement of persons, goods, services and capital within the European Single Market.

Profile data

This refers to data used to create a driving course booking form through this website.

Independent Commissioner’s Office (ICO)

The UK’s independent authority set up to uphold information rights in the public interest, promoting openness by public bodies and data privacy for individuals.

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

Effective from 25 May, 2018, the GDPR is a legal framework that sets guidelines for the collection and processing of personal information of individuals within the European Economic Area (EEA).

Third Party or Third Parties

When the customer completes and submits the online booking form, the customer agrees to their personal information being shared with a third party for the following reasons: To book Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) theory or practical driving tests, to enable a driving instructor to make contact to discuss the prospect of booking an intensive driving course.

Usage data

This refers to data about the customers use of this website and services. This includes the customers IP address, browser type and version, length of visit, page views and website navigation path, as well as information about the timing, frequency and pattern of your service use.

“User” or “you”

The individual accessing utilising this website.

Website

The website that the customer will be using – www.countywide-driving.co.uk, and any subdomains of this site.

Contacting the Countywide Driving School Ltd Website

Customers contacting this website do so at their own discretion and provide their personal details at their own risk. All personal information is kept private and stored securely until a time the intensive driving course booking has been completed and no further action is required or until the customer withdraws their consent to continue to store the relevant information.

Countywide Driving School Ltd has clearly stated and made the customer aware of the fact, and where the customer has given express permission, the customers details maybe used to send test booking service information through a mailing list system. This is done in accordance with the GDPR.

What personal data do we collect and process?

Countywide Driving School Ltd may process ‘enquiry data’ information contained in any enquiry a customer submits regarding this websites goods or services. This data may be processed for the purposes of offering, marketing and selling relevant driving course services. The legal basis for this processing is consent. As such, the customer can at any time opt-out from receiving such communication.

Countywide Driving School Ltd may also process the customers ‘usage data’ i.e. data about the customers use of our website and services. This usage data may include the customers IP address, browser type and version, length of visit, page views and website navigation path, as well as information about the timing, frequency and pattern of your service use. The source of the usage data is our analytics tracking system. This usage data may be processed for the purposes of analysing the use of the website and services.

The legal basis for this processing is legitimate interests, namely monitoring and improving this website and services.

The ‘account profile data’ maybe processed for the purposes of enabling and monitoring the customers use of this website and services. The ‘account data’ may also be used for the purposes of operating this website, providing a service, ensuring the security of this website and services, maintaining back-ups of the databases and communicating with the customer.

The legal bases for collecting this data is for legitimate interests, namely the proper administration of this website and business, as well as for the performance of a contract between the customer and Countywide Driving School Ltd and/or taking steps, at the customer’s request, to enter into such a contract.

Please do not supply any other person’s personal data to Countywide Driving School Ltd.

Sharing your personal data with others

When a customer completes and submits the online booking form, the customer agrees to their personal information being shared with a third party for the following reasons: To book Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) theory or practical driving tests, to enable a driving instructor to contact the customer to discuss the prospect of booking an intensive driving course.

The customers personal data maybe disclosed to professional advisers insofar as reasonably necessary for the purposes of obtaining professional advice, or for the establishment, exercise or defence of legal claims.

Additionally, the customers personal data maybe disclosed when necessary in compliance with a legal obligation to which Countywide Driving School Ltd are subject, or to protect the customers vital interests or the vital interests of a third party.

How long will Countywide Driving School Ltd retain the customers information?

The periods for which Countywide Driving School Ltd keep the customers information will depend on the purpose for which the information was collected. The personal information will not be kept for longer than is necessary or unless the customer requests their information be removed from the database.

All customer data is stored and secured for 1 year and then deleted or securely destroyed. We keep this information should any previous customers either require them for future queries or complaints.

Advertising

Countywide Driving School Ltd may use third-party Service Providers to show advertisements to the customer to help support and maintain our Service.

Google AdSense DoubleClick Cookie

Google, as a third party vendor, uses cookies to serve ads on our Service. Google's use of the DoubleClick cookie enables it and its partners to serve ads to users based on their visit to Countywide Driving School Ltd service or other websites on the Internet.

The customer may opt out of the use of the DoubleClick Cookie for interest-based advertising by visiting the Google Ads Settings web page: http://www.google.com/ads/preferences/

Remarketing Services

Countywide Driving School Ltd uses marketing services to advertise on third party websites.

Google AdWords

Google AdWords remarketing service is provided by Google Inc.

The customer can opt-out of Google Analytics for Display Advertising and customize the Google Display Network ads by visiting the Google Ads Settings page: http://www.google.com/settings/ads

Google also recommends installing the Google Analytics Opt-out Browser Add-on - https://tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout - for the customers web browser. Google Analytics Opt-out Browser Add-on provides visitors with the ability to prevent their data from being collected and used by Google Analytics.

For more information on the privacy practices of Google, please visit the Google Privacy Terms web page: http://www.google.com/intl/en/policies/privacy/

Twitter

Twitter remarketing service is provided by Twitter Inc.

The customer can opt-out from Twitter's interest-based ads by following their instructions: https://support.twitter.com/articles/20170405

Learn more about the privacy practices and policies of Twitter by visiting their Privacy Policy page: https://twitter.com/privacy

Facebook

Facebook remarketing service is provided by Facebook Inc.

Learn more about interest-based advertising from Facebook by visiting this page: https://www.facebook.com/help/164968693837950

To opt-out from Facebook's interest-based ads follow these instructions from Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/help/568137493302217

Facebook adheres to the Self-Regulatory Principles for Online Behavioral Advertising established by the Digital Advertising Alliance. You can also opt-out from Facebook and other participating companies through the Digital Advertising Alliance in the USA http://www.aboutads.info/choices/, the Digital Advertising Alliance of Canada in Canada http://youradchoices.ca/ or the European Interactive Digital Advertising Alliance in Europe http://www.youronlinechoices.eu/, or opt-out using your mobile device settings.

For more information on the privacy practices of Facebook, please visit Facebook's Data Policy: https://www.facebook.com/privacy/explanation

Payments

Countywide Driving School Ltd may provide paid products and/or services within the Service. In that case, third-party services are used for payment processing (e.g. payment processors).

Countywide Driving School Ltd will not store or collect the customers payment card details. That information is provided directly to the third-party payment processors whose use of the customers personal information is governed by their Privacy Policy. These payment processors adhere to the standards set by PCI-DSS as managed by the PCI Security Standards Council, which is a joint effort of brands like Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover. PCI-DSS requirements help ensure the secure handling of payment information.

The payment processors Countywide Driving School Ltd work with are:

Barclaycard

Their Privacy Policy can be viewed at https://www.barclays.co.uk/important-information/privacy-policy/

PayPal

Their Privacy Policy can be viewed at https://www.paypal.com/uk/webapps/mpp/ua/privacy-prev

Links to Other Sites

Countywide Driving School Ltd services may contain links to other sites that are not operated by us. If the customer clicks on a third party link, the link will be directed to that third party's site. It is strongly advised to review the Privacy Policy of every site you visit.

Countywide Driving School Ltd have no control over and assume no responsibility for the content, privacy policies or practices of any third party sites or services.

Your rights

Countywide Driving School Ltd have summarised the rights that the customer has under data protection law. Due to the complexity of such rights, not all the details have been included in the summary. Accordingly, the customer should read the relevant laws and guidance from the regulatory authorities for a full explanation of these rights.

Your principal rights under the GDPR are:

1. The right to access

The customer has the right to confirmation as to whether Countywide Driving School Ltd process personal data and where, access to the personal data, together with certain additional information. That additional information includes details of the purposes of the processing, the categories of personal data concerned and the recipients of the personal data. Providing the rights and freedoms of others are not affected. On request, a copy of the personal data will be supplied

2. The right to rectification

The customer has the right to have inaccurate personal data rectified and, considering the purposes of the processing, to have any incomplete personal data completed.

3. The right to remove

In some circumstances the customer has the right to have their personal data removed from the database without delay. However, there are exclusions of the right to remove such data. The general exclusions include where processing is necessary for example, for compliance with other legal obligations which supersede the customers data protection rights.

4. The right to restrict processing

The customers have the right to restrict the processing of their personal data under certain circumstances, for example, if contesting the accuracy of the personal data. Where processing has been restricted on this basis, the personal data may continue to be stored.

5. The right to object to processing

The customer has the right to object to Countywide Driving School Ltd processing the personal data on grounds relating to the customers particular situation. If the customer makes such an objection, Countywide Driving School Ltd will cease to process the personal information unless there are compelling legitimate grounds for the processing which override the customers interests, rights and freedoms, or the processing is for the establishment, exercise or defense of legal claims.

The customer has the right to object to Countywide Driving School Ltd processing of the personal data for direct marketing purposes (including profiling for direct marketing purposes). If the customer should make such an objection, Countywide Driving School Ltd will cease to process the personal data for this purpose.

6. The right to data portability

  • To the extent that the legal basis for Countywide Driving School Ltd processing of the customers personal data is:
  • consent; or
  • that the processing is necessary for the performance of a contract to which the customer is party or to take steps at the customer’s request prior to entering into a contract,
  • and such processing is carried out by automated means, and the customer has the right to receive their personal data from Countywide Driving School Ltd in a structured, commonly used and machine-readable format. However, this right does not apply where it would adversely affect the rights and freedoms of others.

7. The right to complain to a supervisory authority

If the customer considers that Countywide Driving School Ltd processing of personal information infringes data protection laws, the customer has a legal right to lodge a complaint with the Independent Commissioner’s Office (ICO).

8. The right to withdraw consent

If the legal basis for Countywide Driving School Ltd processing of the customers personal information is consent, the customer has the right to withdraw that consent at any time.

The customer may exercise any of their rights in relation to the personal data by emailing headoffice@countywide-driving.co.uk.

Security

Countywide Driving School Ltd is committed to ensuring that the customers information is secure. To prevent unauthorised access or disclosure, suitable physical, electronic and managerial procedures to safeguard and secure the information collected online has been put in place.

Downloads and media files

Countywide Driving School Ltd has taken every care in the preparation of the contents of this website and the information, pictures, logos, names, images, regarding or relating to Countywide Driving School Ltd, or the products and services of the same (or to third party products and services), are provided to the best of the Countywide Driving School Ltd knowledge and is therefore subject to the possibility of unverified, incomplete, inaccurate or non-comprehensive material and information.  While all precautions have been undertaken to ensure only genuine information is available, the customer is advised to verify the authenticity of such information by using third party anti-virus software or similar applications.

Any downloadable documents, files or media made available on this website are provided to the customers at their own risk and therefore Countywide Driving School Ltd accept no responsibility for third party downloads and downloads provided by external third party websites.

Links to other websites

This website may contain links to other websites of interest. However, once the customer has used these links to leave the website, the customer should note that Countywide Driving School Ltd do not have any control over the other websites. Therefore, Countywide Driving School Ltd cannot be responsible for the protection and privacy of any information which the customer provides whilst visiting such sites and such sites are not governed by this privacy statement. The customer should exercise caution and look at the privacy statement applicable to the website in question.

Any questions?

If you have any queries regarding Countywide Driving School Ltd privacy policy, please contact

headoffice@countywide-driving.co.uk

Payments

  • The following products purchased via the Countywide Driving School website are entitled to a refund subject to conditions.
  • All refund claims must be made within 6 months from the date of payment. After the said period the payee will not be entitled to any reimbursement of monies paid. 
  • Test fee refunds must be made in writing giving legitimate reasons within seven days of the date the product was purchased or seven days of receipt of the goods (whichever is the longer). A full refund will only apply if Countywide Driving School is able to cancel the test booking subject to the DVSA test booking cancellation policy. The entitled refund will be returned within 30 days from the date of cancellation.
  • Voucher refunds must be made in writing giving legitimate reasons within seven days of the date the product was purchased or seven days of receipt of the goods (whichever is the longer). A full refund will only apply on the condition that the voucher has not been redeemed with a driving instructor. The entitled refund will be returned within 30 days from the date of cancellation.
  • The student must pay a relevant non-refundable deposit for an intensive driving course in order to secure the booking. The balance payment should either be paid in cash or bank transfer directly to the driving instructor on an agreed date prior to the start date of the course. Cheque payments must be made direct to the driving instructor 10 days prior to the course start date.
  • The student must take up any issues relating to balance payment disputes or claims directly with the appointed driving instructor and not with Countywide Driving School Ltd. Countywide Driving School Ltd cannot be held lible for any refund claims from either the instructor or student.
  • Countywide Driving School Ltd cannot be held responsible if the driving instructor recommended to a student for teaching a driving course dies during the said course period. All refunds for untaught lessons associated with the course must be requested in writing within 3 months directly to the driving instructor’s family or appointed solicitor. 

  • All refunds are subject to a £25 administration fee. 

  • Free Service

    Countywide Driving School Ltd offer the following services to all Driving Course booking customers free of charge.  

     

    The Following Conditions Apply:

     

    Intensive Course Booking

    • Process student booking and payment information for intensive driving courses within a 5 working day period, unless otherwise agreed with the student.

     

    Book the first DVSA theory test on behalf of the student: (If required)

    • The student must provide via the website online booking form all the personal and driving licence information requested by the website. Within 3 working days the theory test will be booked and the DVSA test confirmation is emailed to the student and driving instructor. The student can change the date, time and test centre location prior to the highlighted last date of change on the confirmation.  

     

    Book the first DVSA practical test on behalf of the student: (If required)

    • It is the student’s responsibility to inform Countywide when the theory test has been passed and provide a valid theory certificate number. Within 3 working days the practical test will be booked and the DVSA test confirmation is emailed to the student and driving instructor. The student can change the date, time and test centre location prior to the highlighted last date of change on the confirmation. (All changes must first be agreed with the driving instructor)

     

    Recommend a DVSA approved driving instructor to the student:

    • A self-employed approved driving instructor registered with the driver and vehicle standards agency (DVSA) will be recommended by Countywide. The driving instructor will contact the student within 5 working days from the initial online intensive driving course booking to discuss course arrangements. If no contact has been made by the driving instructor within the agreed period, it is the student’s responsibility to inform Countywide on 0800 0930 920.

     

    Administration:

    • All administration relating to the above will be processed and checked to ensure all parties have correctly received the relevant information relating to the initial booking.

     

    Important Information:

    • A contract is formed between student and driving instructor at first point of contact.
    • Therefore, from the student and driving instructor initial contact Countywide Driving School Ltd is not responsible for the contract formed and agreed by both parties relating to all course and outstanding payment arrangements. 

The Gallery

  • The gallery displays photo images of students that have successfully passed their practical driving tests.
  • The displayed images will have the personal information on the pass certificates blocked. Countywide Driving School Ltd is committed to ensuring that the student’s privacy is protected. Should Countywide Driving School Ltd ask the student to provide certain information by which the student can be identified when using this website, then you can be assured that it will only be used in accordance with this privacy statement. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
  • Any images sent to Countywide Driving School Ltd by the student or the recommended approved driving instructor are automatically giving permission for such an image to be displayed on the Countywide Driving School Ltd website gallery, selected social media platforms, and associated driving schools.
  • If the student no longer wishes for the image to be displayed, a request by email to remove the image must be actioned and will be removed and destroyed within 5 working days.
  • Any information printed or downloaded from this site should not be modified, copied, displayed, reproduced, distributed, or published without direct permission from Countywide Driving School Ltd. Countywide Driving School Ltd strictly adheres to the requirements of the data protection legislation in the UK and therefore is committed to protecting the student’s privacy and maintaining the security of any personal information received.
  • Theory and Practical Test Bookings

Countywide Driving School agrees to

  • Make every endeavour to book the student’s theory & practical driving test for the date and time requested.
  • Not being able to guarantee a theory & practical driving test date and time.
  • Book theory & practical driving test at the nearest test centre to the student’s home town. In the event that this is not possible an alternative test centre will be agreed with the student and driving instructor.
  • Book a theory or practical driving test and send the booking confirmation to the student with an understanding on how the student can rearrange, cancel the date and time of the test. Any changes made to a pre-booked test must be agreed by both the driving instructor and student before changes are confirmed. It is the student’s responsibility to retain a hard copy printout of the test confirmation.
  • The student will be subject to an £8 administration charge if Countywide Driving School is asked to change or cancel a booked test date or time.  
  • Not be held responsible for the student remembering to take the driving licence when attending the theory and practical driving tests. The old paper licence must be accompanied with a valid passport or other forms of photographic identification accepted by the DVSA.
  • The student and driving instructor to make their own arrangements for the use of the driving instructors vehicle for the purpose of the practical driving test.
  • The driving instructor having the final decision as to whether the student is considered to be at driving test standard and therefore able to attend the practical driving test.
  • The driving instructor reserving the right to suggest that the driving test be rearranged to a more suitable date
  • The driving instructor reserving the right to refuse the use of the vehicle for test purposes.
  • All fees lost due to non-attendance of the theory and practical driving test will be the student’s responsibility.
  • Not guarantee that the student will reach the required driving test standard by the end of a driving course.
  • The student accepting and making allowances in the case of booking a theory or  practical test over a bank holiday period, as this will reduce the availability dates for the tests.
  • Not being held responsible for bad weather, Examiner cancelling, mechanical failure, accidents whilst participating on a driving test
  • The driving instructor being held responsible for ensuring that the student arrives on time for the practical test in a clean and suitable vehicle for test purposes. Any late arrivals resulting in the test being cancelled will be solely the driving instructor and student’s responsibility.
  • That if a practical driving test is cancelled for any reason, Countywide Driving School will endeavour to rebook the practical driving test at the earliest convenience
  • Charge the appropriate DVSA fee where applicable for any rebooked theory or practical driving tests
  • Rebooking a theory or practical driving test is subject to a £8 administration charge.
  • That it is the student’s responsibility to ensure their eyesight is up to the required standard. If unable to read a number plate from the required distance, the examiner will refuse to allow the student to drive and the test will be terminated with the loss of the test fee.
  • That if the student decides not to attend a driving test for any reason, the student will be liable for the next test fee.
  • That should the student become ill within the 3 working day test cancellation notice period, the test fee will be forfeit and the student will be subject to an additional charge for the test fee and £8 administration fee.
  • That should the student not proceed with the intensive driving course within 3 months of the agreed start date, the student will be subject to a £50 administration fee to find a second driving instructor.
  • You need to tell DVLA about some medical conditions as they can affect your driving. Click for more details: Medical Conditions. 

Countywide Driving School Ltd offer the following services to all Intensive Driving Course booking customers free of charge.  Link: Free Service

 Intensive Driving Courses

  • All bookings secured via this website are subject to acceptance in accordance with Countywide Driving School terms and conditions.
  • All courses booked through the services of Countywide Driving School are under the proviso that the student is forming a contract directly with the self-employed independent driving instructor appointed to carry out the driving course.
  • Therefore, the student should take up any issues relating to balance payment disputes or claims directly with the appointed driving instructor and not with Countywide Driving School. Countywide Driving School cannot be held liable for any compensation claim from either instructor or student.
  • It is the student’s responsibility to read Countywide Driving School terms and conditions. Also to ensure that a record has been taken of all the relevant intensive driving course booking details.
  • All driving course discounts and promotional offers are deducted and agreed prior to booking an intensive driving course. Any such offers are displayed on Countywide Driving School website and advertising material. Any further discounts may be agreed between the driving instructor and student if appropriate.
  • It is the student’s responsibility to check emails regularly for confirmation details and test information.
  • Acceptance of the students booking will take place only if all relevant sections on the booking form have been completed correctly and the correct agreed deposit for the intensive driving course has been received.
  • It is agreed that a non-returnable deposit is paid for the intensive driving course at the booking stage by the following methods – via the Countywide Driving School website secure booking service, cheque, PayPal or accepted credit / debit cards by telephone. The balance is paid directly to the appointed driving instructor prior to the start of the intensive driving course via a payment method agreed between the student and driving instructor. It is the students responsibility to request a receipt if required.
  • All courses are subject to a non-refundable deposit paid at the time of booking the intensive driving course.
  • In addition to the non-refundable deposit any other payments for an intensive driving course are subject to a refund on the condition that a minimum of 28 days written notice prior to the start date of the driving course is given stating legitimate reasons for the cancellation. Any such cancellations will be subject to a £25 administration fee.
  • It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that all requested information is provided to Countywide Driving School when booking an intensive driving course.
  • Countywide Driving School reserves the right to rearrange an intensive driving course dates, times and change driving instructors when appropriate. Any changes to dates and times can also be made by the driving instructor and student on the condition that both parties agree.
  • Countywide Driving School cannot be held responsible for any traffic law violations, highway fines, toll and congestion charges incurred whilst on an intensive driving course by the driving instructor or student.
  • It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that they hold a valid provisional UK driving licence for the category B – Car Licence and act responsible when participating on the driving course.
  • Countywide Driving School is not responsible for a student not providing any relevant information that could affect the intensive driving course, theory and practical driving tests.
  • If the student is found to be under the Influence of Alcohol, Drugs or anything which could affect the driving, the student will not be allowed to drive for that day losing all associated fees for that days training or test fees if appropriate. The instructor’s decision on this is final. Should the same situation be repeated then the course will be terminated with loss of all course and test fees.
  • Any liability on the part of Countywide Driving School is limited to the total value of the non-returnable deposit.
  • All driving instructors acting on behalf of Countywide Driving School are approved by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency. (DVSA)
  • Any threatening behaviour or unnecessary bad language caused by the student during a driving course or driving test that is directed at the driving instructor, DVSA Examiner, the general public, in writing or via any other form of communication will be deemed unacceptable and may result in the driving course or test being terminated with loss of all course and test fees. Any money outstanding will still remain due.
  • Cancellations and Rebooking’s in the event that the student decides to end the driving course before all hours are completed, then Countywide Driving School will not be held responsible for such a decision and all driving course fees will be lost.
  • All driving instructors are self-employed.
  • As a self-employed driving instructor the contract to provide intensive driving courses and receive part or full payment for the driving courses is between the driving instructor and the student or parent/guardian (if the student is under 18 years of age)
  • All matters relating to timing, meeting location and duration of the lesson shall be subject to agreement between the driving instructor and the student or parent/guardian. (If the student is under 18 years of age)
  • To rearrange or cancel an intensive driving course written notice must be given by the student at least 28 days prior to the agreed start date of the pre booked intensive course. Failure to give this notice will result in a valid claim by the driving instructor for an equivalent value in compensation.
  • Should the driving instructor arrive late for a lesson due to circumstances beyond his/her control, the instructor will make every effort to extend the ‘finish’ time of the lesson by the same amount of time or add the time on to a future session.
  • When the student fails to attend a pre-arranged intensive driving course time, the instructor will wait a maximum of 30 minutes before leaving. This will result in the student losing that days training session and fee.
  • It is a Countywide Driving School policy that no eating, drinking or smoking is permitted whist participating on an intensive driving course, unless otherwise agreed by the allocated driving instructor.
  • The driving instructor reserves the right to charge an agreed cost for the use of the vehicle for test purposes. The charge should reflect the total amount of time required to travel and return from the test centre and for the time necessary to conduct a practical driving test. This extra charge must be agreed between the driving instructor and student prior to the last date of change for the practical test booking.
  • Countywide Driving School will make every endeavour to book the student’s practical driving test for the end of the intensive driving course, providing that the student has passed the theory test at least 10 days prior to the intensive driving course start date.
  • In the event that a student has not passed the theory test prior to the commencement of the intensive driving course. It is agreed that the course will go ahead as scheduled but one training day will be kept in reserve and taught the day before the practical test date.
  • Countywide Driving School cannot guarantee a driving test for the end of the intensive driving course, but every effort will be made to ensure that a test booking coincides with the end of the intensive driving course. 
  • If Countywide Driving School cannot provide a driving test within the same week as the student’s intensive driving course then the next available date provided by the DVSA will be booked, subject to the driving instructor and student’s availability.
  • The driving test will be booked at the nearest practical driving test centre to the student’s home town. In the event that this is not possible an alternative test centre will be agreed with the student and driving instructor.
  • It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that the card part of their driving licence is taken to the theory test and the card part of their driving licence & theory pass certificate is taken for the practical driving test. The old paper licence must be accompanied with a valid passport or other forms of photographic identification accepted by the DVSA.
  • The student will be expected to use the driving instructor’s vehicle for the driving test providing the student has reached the required test standard of driving. The driving instructor will make every effort to help the student reach test standard. However, if it is considered by the driving instructor that the student is unsuitable for test purposes and therefore a possible danger, for safety reasons the student will not be allowed to use the training vehicle for the test.
  • Countywide Driving School cannot guarantee that the student will reach the required driving test standard by the end of the driving course.
  • In the event that the student has not reached the required standard the driving instructor reserves the right to suggest that the driving test be rearranged to a more suitable date. This decision is to be made before the DVSA’s allocated date of change. The driving instructor also reserves the right to refuse the use of the vehicle for test purposes. All fees lost due to non-attendance of the practical test will be the student’s responsibility.
  • Allowances will need to be made when practical and theory tests are booked over a bank holiday period, as this will reduce the availability dates for the tests.
  • Countywide Driving School cannot be held responsible for bad weather, Examiner cancelling, mechanical failure, accidents whilst participating on a driving course or test. It is the driving instructor’s responsibility to ensure that the student arrives on time for the practical test in a clean and suitable vehicle for test purposes. Any late arrivals resulting in the test being cancelled will be solely the driving instructor and student’s responsibility.
  • In the event of a practical driving test cancellation, Countywide Driving School will endeavour to rebook the practical driving test at the earliest convenience. Any rebooked practical or theory tests will be charged the appropriate DVSA fee where applicable.
  • Rebooking practical or theory tests are subject to a £8 administration charge.
  • The student’s eyesight must be up to the required standard. If unable to read a number plate from the required distance, the driving instructor may refuse to allow the student to drive.
  • If the student decides not to attend a driving test for any reason, the student will be liable for the next test and administration fees.
  • Should the student become ill within the 3 working day test cancellation notice period, the test fee will be forfeit and the student will be subject to an additional charge for the test fee.
  • All outstanding intensive driving course fees should be made at the commencement of the intensive driving course.
  • Saturday practical test is subject to an additional £13 charge.
  • Extended practical test is subject to an additional £62 charge.

Driving Lessons

  • Weekly driving lesson dates, times and meeting locations must be arranged 7 days prior to the next scheduled date, unless otherwise agreed between both parties. 
  • 48 hours notice must be given by either party to rearrange or cancel a prescheduled driving lesson. The driving instructor will make every endeavor to rebook the driving lessons, subject to diary availability.
  • All driving lesson payments are only subject to a refund on the condition that a minimum of 48 hours notice is given prior to the start date of the next booking. No refund is available for late notice cancellation.   

Gift Vouchers 

  • Gift vouchers for driving lessons, DVSA theory & practical driving tests are valid for 12 months from the date of purchase.
  • Purchasing the gift voucher does not guarantee a booking date or time for driving lessons and tests.
  • The driving lesson gift voucher must be available to the driving instructor on the first driving lesson.
  • The gift voucher is not valid to persons under the age of 17.
  • Gift voucher refunds must be made in writing giving legitimate reasons within seven days of the date the product was purchased or seven days of receipt of the goods (whichever is the longer). A full refund will only apply on the condition that the voucher has not been redeemed with a driving instructor. The entitled refund will be returned within 30 days by the same method the payment was received.
  • All refunds are subject to a £25 administration fee.
  • Gift vouchers ordered through our Website will be delivered automatically by electronic means to the email address specify at the time of order. 
  • When ordering a gift voucher, you should ensure to enter the recipient’s email address correctly.  We cannot be held responsible if the address is entered incorrectly and someone other than the intended recipient uses the voucher
  • Gift vouchers cannot be exchanged for money or other offers.
  • We are not responsible if a gift voucher is lost, stolen, destroyed or used without permission and no replacement will be provided in these circumstances. 

The DSA Code

  • The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA ADI) and the driving instruction industry place great emphasis on professional standards and business ethics.
  • This code of practice has been agreed between DVSA and the bodies representing ADIs listed at the end of this document. It is a framework within which all instructors should operate.
  • A person who gives lessons in a motor car in return for payment must be on the register of approved driving instructors (ADIs). To gain entry to the register the instructor is required to have passed the necessary qualifications to become a driving instructor.
  • Once fully qualified and on the register, ADIs are regularly tested by DVSA to check their continued ability to give instruction to an approved standard.

Personal conduct
The instructors agree that:

  • They will at all times comply with the law and, in particular legislative requirements regarding the protection of personal freedoms, discrimination, data protection, trading standards, the workplace and road safety
  • They will at all times behave in a professional manner towards clients in line with the Standards in the ‘National standard for driver and rider training’
  • Clients will be treated with respect and consideration and will be supported to achieve the learning outcomes in the ‘National standard for driver and rider training’ as efficiently and effectively as possible
  • They will ensure that their knowledge and skills on all matters relating to the provision of driver training comply with current practice and legislative requirements
  • They will try to avoid physical contact with a client except in an emergency or in the normal course of greeting.

Business dealings
The instructors agree that:

  • They will safeguard and account for any monies paid in advance by the client in respect of driving lessons, test fees or for any other purpose and will make the details available to the client on request
  • On or before the first lesson they should make available to clients a copy of this code of practice together with their terms of business to include:
  • Legal identity of the school/instructor with full address and telephone number at which the instructor or their representative can be contacted
  • The current price and duration of lessons
  • The current price and conditions for use of a driving school car for the practical driving test
  • The terms under which cancellation of lessons by either party may take place
  • The procedure for making a complaint
  • They must check a client’s entitlement to drive the vehicle and their ability to read a number plate at the statutory distance on the first lesson
  • They will advise a client when to apply for their theory and practical driving tests, taking account of local waiting times and forecast of the client’s potential for achieving the driving test pass standard
  • They will not cancel or rearrange a driving test without the client’s agreement - in the event of the instructor’s decision to withhold the use of the school car for the driving test, sufficient notice should be given to the client to avoid loss of the DVSA test fee
  • When presenting a client for the practical driving test the instructor should ensure that the client has all the necessary documentation to enable the client to take the test and ensure that the vehicle is roadworthy.

Advertising

  • The instructors agree that:
  • The advertising of driving tuition shall be clear, fair and not misleading
  • Claims made shall be capable of verification and comply with CAP Advertising Codes
  • Advertising that refers to clients’ pass rates should not be open to misinterpretation and the basis on which the calculation is prepared should be made clear

Conciliation
The instructor agrees that:

  • Complaints by students should be made in the first instance to the driving instructor, driving school or contractor following their complaints procedure
  • If, having completed the procedure, the student has been unable to reach an agreement or settle a dispute they may seek further guidance:
  • If they believe their instructor is not providing a good service they can contact their local Trading Standards office or Citizens Advice Bureau for guidance
  • If they are not happy with their instructor’s behaviour, the student can contact the ADI Registrar by emailing adireg@dsa.gsi.gov.uk

Ownership of Website


Company Name:       Countywide Driving School Limited
Company Number:     03555624
Telephone:                0800 0930 920
E-mail:                      headoffice@countywide-driving.co.uk

Intensive Courses

£20

Online Discount

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Areas Covered

Countywide Driving School provide driving lessons throughout: East & West Sussex