What is EDT?
EDT stands for Essential Driver Training, a course for learner drivers seeking a Category B driving licence for cars.
EDT will help you learn the most vital driving skills while improving knowledge of road safety. It focuses on learning the skills needed to deal with hazards while driving.
The lessons cover basic car control, changing lanes, driving safely at higher speeds, and preparing for the driving test. All learner permit holders issued on or after 4th April 2011 need the EDT course.
EDT Syllabus Structure and Points
The EDT course has 12 lessons. You learn the basics, then you get onto busier roads, more challenging scenarios, and test preparation. The format means you can build up confidence without having to master everything at once.
Theme 1 (Lessons 1-2): Car Controls & Cockpit Drill (Building confidence)
The first two classes are meant to get you comfortable behind the wheel. Your instructor will show you how to operate the main controls such as the pedals, gears, indicators, steering wheel, handbrakes, and the rest of the cockpit drill. The idea is to familiarize yourself with the car and create a sense of comfort with it.
Theme 2 (Lessons 3-4): Positioning & Changing Direction (Driving on roads)
Once you are comfortable with the basic controls, you will learn how to position the car safely on the road. That means staying in your lane properly, keeping a distance from the kerb, and knowing how to turn properly. You will also learn how to turn left and right, checking mirrors, and watching out for other road users.
Theme 3 (Lessons 5-6): Junctions & Observation (Developing crucial habits)
Junctions can be confusing at first, as the driver must consider multiple factors simultaneously. These lessons are to slow you down. You will practice approaching crossroads, picking a safe space and pulling away gradually and not rushing. This is the stage for you to observe well, check the mirrors, look for pedestrians and vehicles coming from the other direction.
Theme 4 (Lessons 7-8): Roundabouts and Speed Control (Building fluency)
In these sessions you learn how to keep the car running and drive. You’ll learn how to use roundabouts, which lane to take and when to pull in. It’s also about controlling your speed. Your instructor will tell you when to slow down, when to speed up and how to change your driving for traffic, curves, weather and visibility.
Theme 5 (Lessons 9-10): Complex Environments (e.g. Motorways, Night Driving)
These lessons will teach you how to cope with situations that need higher levels of concentration and quicker decision-making. That could include crowded roads, faster routes, more traffic, and driving at night. You will learn to look ahead, read road signs and watch for vehicles around you. It helps you make the right decisions when the road ahead looks tough.
Theme 6 (Lessons 11-12): Pre-Test Assessment (Putting it all together in a mock test)
Other lessons are a combination of the various skills. Your instructor is likely to take you on a route which may be similar to that of the test. You receive clear feedback on what you need to address before test day, allowing you to practice junctions, roundabouts, observation, speed, and position.
EDT Pricing & Packages
EDT lesson rates differ based on instructor, location, and package. As a rule, you can book lessons individually or go for a full 12-lesson EDT package, which might be a better value overall.
Driving schools often have flexible payment options, can schedule lessons before your test, and offer extra practice sessions if you need a bit more time on the road. Kindly check package details before booking. Enquire the following:
- How long is each lesson?
- Is the training vehicle included?
- Do they track your progress?
- Do you offer pick-up and drop-off?
With an all inclusive, transparent package you can get an idea of your training fees and complete your EDT lessons without hidden charges.
| Driving Lessons | Price |
|---|---|
| 6 EDT Lessons | €320 |
| 12 EDT Lessons | €620 |
| 1 Pretest Lesson | €55 |
Why Choose Driving Lessons Tallaght for your EDT lessons?
The right instructor for EDT can make your lessons easier, more practical and useful.
Local knowledge
Trainers know roads, roundabouts, junctions and normal traffic conditions in Tallaght. Knowing the area helps you practice the situations you are most likely to encounter in your everyday driving.
RSA EDT training
Our training is based on the official EDT syllabus and is tailored to the skills needed at each stage. RSA-approved instructors offer direct feedback on your strengths and development areas.
Manual & Automatic
Choose to learn in either a manual or automatic car, depending on your preference. The lessons are matched to your confidence, your experience and your pace of learning.
Mock Tests
The tests and lessons are designed to feel like your final driving test, so you know what to expect before your test. Your instructor will also help you to improve the weak areas and avoid common mistakes.
Automatic or Manual – Learn to Drive
Choose the kind of vehicle you like. Manual lessons are best if you want better control and the flexibility to drive both manual and automatic vehicles after passing the test. Automatic lessons let you focus on the road by removing the need to worry about gears and the clutch. The lessons are customised to suit your experience and your learning speed, so you can develop your driving skills without feeling overwhelmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can find our most popular frequently asked questions around EDT driving lessons below
What do I need to bring to my first EDT lesson?
Don’t forget to bring your learner’s permit and wear comfortable shoes that give you good control of the pedals. Arriving a few minutes early allows you to discuss your experience, goals and any concerns before you begin.
I have no driving experience. Can I still learn EDT?
Yes. EDT is excellent for beginners. Early lessons will usually include the controls of the car, observation, moving off safely, and stopping before moving onto busier roads and more demanding situations.
How long is an EDT lesson?
An EDT lesson is usually one hour long. Feedback and progress notes might take some additional time, and don’t plan immediately after so that the lesson doesn’t feel rushed.
What if I need to cancel?
Please contact our driving school as soon as possible. The cancellation policy varies, and short-notice changes may incur a fee, so review the booking terms before confirming your appointment.
Should I practice between EDT lessons?
Absolutely. Daily practice helps you to master new skills, gain confidence, and get more comfortable in different road and weather conditions.
How do I know how I am doing on EDT?
Your instructor uploads every lesson you complete to the official EDT system. You’ll also get notes on what to practice before the next session so you can see where your driving is improving and plan future lessons better.
Can I change instructors during the program?
Yes, you can change your instructor without having to repeat completed lessons. Please ensure that your previous lessons have been uploaded correctly and share any progress notes that may be useful for your new instructor.