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PASS YOUR DRIVING TEST WITH TOM AND SANDRA AT JOHN MANNIX & SON DRIVING SCHOOL -

AUTOMATIC ELECTRIC CAR IN OPERATION FOR DRIVING TESTS AND LESSONS 

ABOUT US

Established in the mid-70s, John Mannix & Son Driving School is one of the longest and well-established driving schools in the Mallow Region.


John was a recognised leader for quality driving lessons leading to successful driving test results in the north region of Co. Cork. In recent years John's son Tom, and his wife Sandra, have been carrying on the good family name and we are the first married couple in Mallow and Munster and the second married couple in Ireland to become fully qualified as Road Safety Authority RSA/ADI Approved Driving Instructors.


At John Mannix & Son Driving School we offer introductory driving lessons for novice drivers to pre-test tuition incorporating all Mallow test routes for test candidates. Driving lessons are carefully planned by us and structured to cater to the individual needs of each pupil. Our lessons follow the structure as outlined by the EDT Programme. The lessons can be done in your own car or in our dual control car. We offer extensive driving instruction and cater for all types of learner drivers. Whether you have never sat into the driver's seat before or need to remove those bad habits before the test John Mannix & Son Driving School is the school of choice.


We will also prepare our students for the theory part of the driving test which many people often forget about. We will cover all the types of questions that can be asked and ensure that you are fully prepared to answer any questions that may come up in the test. We will provide you with handouts covering these questions and answers so you can examine and study them in your own time. No other driving school provides such a personal service.


The comprehensive, personal, and friendly services you will find at John Mannix & Son Driving School is one of a kind. We believe that knowledgeable drivers are safer drivers and strive to educate our students as much as possible. Being as prepared as possible will increase your chances of passing the driving test first time and will set you up as you continue your driving career.

We cater for driving lessons for drivers with all disabilities.

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Contact Tom and Sandra Today for More Information and to Book Your Driving Lessons

Frequently Asked Questions

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  • Are pre-tests necessary?
    While pre-tests are not mandatory we will always recommend completing at least one. This will allow to familiarise yourself with the structure of driving test so you can be fully prepared and confident when the time comes.
  • How many driving lessons do I need to do?
    You must complete a mandatory 12 EDT lessons. Each lesson will cover a specific driving skill and all lessons are recorded in your personal EDT Logbook.
  • What is your test pass rate?
    At John Mannix & Son Driving School, we are very proud of our 99.9% test pass rate with the majority of our students passing their test first time with us.
  • What test routes do you cover?
    We cover all test routes in Mallow and North Country Cork. These test routes are used throughout our driving lessons and for pre-tests situations.
  • Can I purchase gift vouchers?
    Yes, gift vouchers are available to purchase for birthday presents, Christmas presents, etc. Please call us directly to purchase your gift vouchers.
  • Do you have a dual control car?
    Yes, our dual control car is fully insured for all lessons and pre-tests. Alternatively, driving lessons or pre-tests can be carried out in your own car.
  • Can I do extra lessons?
    Absolutely, you can have as many driving lessons as you wish. The 12 EDT lessons are the minimum amount of lessons required. If you are a nervous driver or feel you need some more experience and training before undertaking your test then you can absolutely do so.
  • How soon can I do my driving test?
    Once you have completed all 12 driving lessons, and have held your provisional driving licence for at least 6 months you can apply for your driving test. If you have finished all 12 lessons but have only had your licence for 4 months then you will need to wait a further 2 months before booking the test.
  • How many driving lessons do I have to do?
    You must complete all 12 mandatory EDT Driving lessons. Your driving instructor will record when each lesson took place and all 12 must be signed off before you can apply for your driving test.
  • When can I start my lessons?
    When you have completed all the necessary steps and applied for the learners permit though your local NDLS centre you will have to wait until you receive the provisional driving licence in the post. Once you receive this you can begin your driving lessons.
  • Where can I get an eye test done?
    Any opticians can carry out an eye test for a learner's permit. Simply let them know at the time you book the appointment that it is especially for a provisional licence and the optician will do the rest. Many opticians will have the necessary form on file but others may require you to bring it to the appointment with you.
  • How can I prepare for my theory test?
    There are countless study materials available to help you prepare for your theory test. The Official Driver Theory Test handbook, CD-ROM, or mobile app is the best source of study materials and will cover everything you need to know for the theory test.
  • When will I find out my results?
    Once you have returned to the test centre your examiner will bring you back to their desk and let you know if you have failed or passed. If you failed the test you will be made aware of the faults occurred and the areas in which you need to practice. If you pass the driving test you will be given your licence application form.
  • How long does the driving test take?
    The driving test lasts about 30-40 minutes. 10 minutes at the beginning of the test is allotted for theory questions and examining the vehicle. The remainder will be dedicated to examining your driving ability and completing the necessary manoeuvers.
  • What questions will I be asked?
    You can be asked a variety of questions that will test your knowledge of the rules of the road and road signs. Questions can include when to use dipped headlights, when can you enter a yellow box, what is the hand signal for turning right, etc.
  • Yield Right of Way
    This regulatory sign imposes the same obligation to concede right of way as the stop sign. In general, this will be provided at junctions at which the right of way can be yielded simply by slowing down and stopping only if necessary.
  • Slowing Down/Stopping
  • Overtaking
  • Reversing/Turning
    When making a U-turn ensure that: • The road is not one way. • You give way to all traffic. • You do not cross a continuous centre white line.
  • Stop Signs
    This regulatory traffic sign demands that vehicles approaching the junction at which the sign is provided MUST STOP at the sign or at the stop line if this is provided even if there is no traffic on the major road. Traffic travelling in either direction along the major road has right of way at all times.
  • Traffic Lanes
  • Driving at Night
    When driving at night you must use your full headlamps except: 1. For a short period just after the beginning or before the end of lighting up hours (the period commencing half an hour after sunset on any day and ending half an hour before sunrise on the following day) provided visibility is adequate. 2. When stopped in the course of traffic. 3. In a built-up or special speed limit area where there is good street lighting. You must dip your headlamps: 1. When meeting other traffic. 2. When driving in a built-up or special speed limit area except where the roads are unlit. 3. On continuously lit roads outside built-up or special speed limit areas. 4. When following close behind another vehicle. 5. At the beginning and end of lighting up hours. 6. Where there is dense fog or falling snow. 7. Generally to avoid inconveniencing other traffic.
  • Speed
  • Position on the Road
    A driver must generally drive as near to the left hand side of the road as is necessary to allow approaching traffic to pass and following traffic to overtake on the right (without danger or inconvenience). When it is necessary to move from this normal left hand side of the road, as for example when overtaking, turning right or when passing pedestrians, cyclists or parked vehicles, make sure it is safe to do so. When it is necessary, check in your mirror to ensure another vehicle is not approaching from behind, give a clear signal to warn traffic in good time of your intentions and proceed with your manoeuvre.
  • Moving Off
    Before you move off you should check that your rear view mirrors are clean and properly adjusted, that all doors are properly secured and that your safety belt and that of your passenger are fastened. Check the traffic situation in your mirrors and by looking over shoulder, signal your intention to move out and move out when the way is clear. Remember that when moving off you must yield right of way to other traffic and pedestrians.
  • Towing
    • The draw-bar, rope or other towing device must be strong enough to withstand breakage and so secured that it will not become detached while in use. • The distance between the vehicles (or between vehicle and trailer) must not exceed 5 metres. • Where the distance between the vehicles exceeds 1.5 metres, a warning device, such as a white flag at least 12 inches square, must be attached to the towing device. • If the trailer has its own steering gear, an attendant must be present to take charge of the steering, and, if the vehicle being towed is itself a mechanically propelled vehicle, the attendant must be the holder of a licence to drive that class of vehicle. • If the trailer exceeds 15 cwt in laden weight or half the laden weight of the drawing vehicle (whichever is the less) it must be fitted with brakes. • A combination of vehicles or an articulated vehicle exceeding 13 metres in length must display a Long Vehicle sign or signs on the back of the rearmost trailer. • Loads projecting more than 1 metre to the rear must be marked in daytime by a red flag or marked board and at night time by a red reflector and red lamp. A load projecting to the side must be marked at night by a lamp or lamps showing a white light to the front and a red lamp to the rear.
  • Overtaking
    • Overtaking on the right only, unless traffic is moving in queues and the traffic queue on your right is moving slowly than you are.• Before you start to overtake, check that the way is clear, (behind and ahead) and signal well in advance.• Remember that traffic may be travelling significantly faster than on ordinary roads.• Be particularly careful at dusk, during darkness, and in foggy or misty conditions when it is more difficult to judge speed and distance.• Return to your original lane as soon as possible.
  • Joining the Motorway
    When you join the motorway by way of a slip road you must give way to traffic already on the motorway. Watch for a safe gap in the traffic in the left-hand lane and adjust your speed as you join the motorway in order to match, as nearly as possible, the general speed of traffic in that lane. Stay in the left-hand lane long enough to adjust to the speed of traffic before attempting to overtake.
  • Obstructions
    If you become aware of an obstruction on the carriageway, use the roadside telephone to inform the Gardai. Do not attempt to remove it yourself.
  • Driving on a Motorway
    Motorways are roads which are designed to provide for faster journey times with greater safety through the separation of traffic and elimination of road junctions. Motorways may not be used by • Persons not holding full driving licences for the category of vehicle being driven. • Vehicles with the engine capacity of 50cc or less. • Vehicles incapable of speed of at least 50km/h (vehicles capable of a speed of 50 km/h may use a motorway whether or not propelled by internal combustion engine). • Vehicles which do not use pneumatic tyres. • Invalid carriages. • Pedal cyclists. • Animals. The Road Traffic General Bye-Laws (Amendment) Regulations 1983 to 1992 deal with driving on motorways. Briefly these Regulations require motorists to drive only in the direction of traffic flow; prohibit the driving on or across any part of the motorway which is not a carriageway; prohibit stopping or parking on any part of the motorway; prohibit driving of any vehicle for which an ordinary maximum speed limit of 80kph or lower is prescribed (buses, coaches, goods vehicles with a design gross vehicle weight in excess of 3,500 kilograms or a vehicle drawing another vehicle) from driving in the traffic lane nearest the right hand edge of the carriageway except in exceptional circumstances e.g. lane closed or obstructed. These Regulations also deal with the procedures that must be followed in the event of an accident or breakdown. Attention is also drawn to the prohibition on picking up or setting down anybody on a motorway.
  • On the Motorway
    You must only drive ahead. No other movement such as turning/reversing is permitted. You must progress at a speed and in such a manner as to avoid undue interference with other motorway traffic.
  • Lane Discipline
    The normal "keep left" rule applies. This means that you stay in the left hand lane unless you are overtaking. In a three lane carriageway you may stay in the centre lane while there is slower moving traffic on the inner lane. A vehicle drawing a trailer should not use the right-hand lane of a carriageway with three or more lanes except in exceptional circumstances.
  • Breakdowns
    If your vehicle breaks down, move it off the carriageway on to the hard shoulder. If you have hazard warning lights, switch them on. Goods vehicles should display their warning triangles. Do not attempt to cross or walk on the carriageway. Use the roadside telephone to inform the Gardai. Do not delay in obtaining assistance and do not leave your vehicle unattended for longer than necessary. If you cannot move your vehicle off the carriageway, take whatever steps you can to warn other drivers of its presence. When rejoining the carriageway, build up your speed first on the hard shoulder. Watch for a safe gap in the traffic before rejoining it.
  • Stopping and Parking
    • If the car breaks down. • When you are signalled to do so by a Garda. • In emergency situations (accidents etc).
  • Driving on Dual Carriageways
    On dual carriageways the general rule of driving on the left applies. The outer lane of a two-lane dual carriageway should be used only by: • Faster moving traffic. • For overtaking. • When intending to turn right a short distance ahead. The outer lane of a three-lane dual carriageway should only be used for overtaking or when it is intended to make a right turn a short distance ahead.
  • Crossing/Joining a Dual Carriageway
    When you wish to cross a dual carriageway or join it by turning right, treat each half as a separate one-way road. Cross the first half when it is clear and wait in the median space until there is a safe gap in traffic in the second half before you complete your crossing or turn. If the median is already blocked by another vehicle, WAIT until there is sufficient space available to enable you to clear the first half of the dual carriageway without stopping. If the median is too narrow to accommodate your vehicle, wait on the side road until you can clear both carriageways at once.
  • Junctions on Dual Carriageways
    When turning right on a dual carriageway follow the normal procedure and move into the right hand lane. (If there is a deceleration lane move into this lane). At the junction turn into the "median" space (the central dividing strip) and wait for a safe gap in traffic before crossing or turning into the other carriageway. Aim to get into the left hand lane as you complete your turn.
  • Roundabouts
    • Treat the roundabout as a normal junction which means you yield right of way to traffic approaching on the roundabout. • IF LEAVING BY THE FIRST EXIT approach and enter the roundabout in the left-hand lane signalling a left turn and proceed to leave the roundabout at that exit. • IF LEAVING BY THE SECOND EXIT approach and enter the roundabout in the left-hand lane but do not signal until you have passed the first exit then signal a left turn and leave at the next exit. • IF LEAVING BY ANY SUBSEQUENT EXIT approach and enter the roundabout in the right hand lane signalling a right turn. Keep in the right hand lane (i.e. the lane next to the centre). As you pass the exit before the one you intend to leave by, signal a left turn and, when your way is clear, move to the other lane and leave at the desired exit.
  • Right of Way
    • Traffic already turning at a junction. • A pedestrian already crossing at a junction. • A pedestrian on a zebra crossing. • A pedestrian on a pelican crossing when the amber light is flashing. • Pedestrians and traffic when you are moving off from a stationary position. • Traffic in another lane when you wish to change lanes. • Traffic on a public road when you are coming out of a private entrance.
  • Turning Right
    Check your mirror well in advance for traffic following behind. If the way is clear, give a right turn signal and, as soon as you can do so safely, take up a position just left of the middle of the road, or in the space provided for right turning traffic. Where possible, leave room for other vehicles to pass on the left. When a safe gap occurs in oncoming traffic, complete your turn so as to enter the left hand side of the road into which you are turning. Do not cut the corner. When necessary, as for example at a junction controlled by a STOP SIGN (at which you must stop) or YIELD RIGHT OF WAY sign, wait at the entrance to the junction until the road is clear.
  • Box Junctions
  • Tuning Left
    Check for following traffic well in advance. Give a left turn signal and slow down. Watch particularly for cyclists or motorcyclists coming up on your left. Keep as close as possible to the left edge of the roadway. Make the turn, again keeping close to the left hand edge. If at a T-Junction, it is important to give way to both sides of traffic.
  • Crossroad Junctions
  • Green Light
    A driver approaching a traffic light showing green may proceed past the light provided the way is clear.
  • Red Light
    A driver approaching a traffic light showing red must not proceed beyond the stop line at that light or, if there is no stop line, beyond that light.
  • Amber Light
    Always approach traffic lights at such a speed which will enable you to stop if the amber light shows on your approach. Remember that a flashing amber light at a pedestrian crossing means you must yield to pedestrians.
  • Green Arrow
    A driver approaching a traffic light showing a lighted green arrow may proceed in the direction indicated by the arrow (provided the way is clear and it is safe to do so) not-withstanding that another light facing the driver is showing red.
  • One-Way Streets
    One way streets will be indicated by the traffic signs illustrated below - No Entry, or Proceed This Way. The No Entry sign may be accompanied by the roadway markings illustrated right. Lane discipline must be observed in one-way streets. Take note of arrow markings on the road. You may drive on either side of a traffic refuge in a one-way street. Remember that at the end of a one-way street the road ahead, either to the right or left, may be two-way. This will be indicated by the TWO-WAY TRAFFIC SIGN.
  • Bus Lane & Bus Only Streets
    There are two types of bus lane: BUS-ONLY STREETS: "Bus only streets" are streets which are reserved for the use of buses only. They may be entered by other traffic for the purpose of access only.
  • Level Crossings
    At a gated but unattended level crossing, signposted by the sign shown opposite, stop short of the crossing: • Get out of the vehicle. At a few unattended level crossings, there are neither gates nor barriers and the crossing is protected only by twin red flashing lights which are activated by an approaching train. If a second train is coming its approach will be indicated by an illuminated sign SECOND TRAIN COMING, placed below the light board. As soon as the train(s) has passed, the barrier will rise. Other types of level crossings include attended gated crossings and unattended crossings equipped with barriers extended over the full width of the road. Because of the risk of road vehicles hitting level crossing gates, barriers or trains, drivers must approach level crossings with due caution and always be in a position to come to a halt in front of the gates or barriers.
  • Pedestrian Streets
    Such streets will be indicated by the traffic sign opposite and are closed to all vehicular traffic at particular times. The times will be shown on the information plate accompanying the sign as illustrated.
  • Can I ever drive in a bus lane?
    Bus lanes are reserved for buses and taxis during peak traffic hours. These hours will be indicated on the bus lane signs. All cars, vehicles, and traffic can use these lanes outside of the advertised hours.
  • What is the difference between a stop sign and a yield sign?
    Stop signs and yield signs are seen at all kinds of junctions. At a stop sign, your car must come to a complete stop. At a yield sign, you must slow down and give way to traffic coming from the right or traffic already on the junction. If there are no other cars then you can continue through the junction without fully stopping the car.
  • Can learner drivers use motorways?
    No. Learner drivers are not allowed to drive on the motorway. Motorways are very dangerous places with high speed traffic. Motorways can only be used if you hold a full driving licence.
  • Suspension, Brakes & Wheels
  • Oxygen Sensor
    A complex device to measure the amount of air in the exhaust, it balances the amount of fuel and air getting into the engine.
  • Cooling
    A water cooled engine contains the engine's water jacket, a thermostat, a water pump, a radiator and radiator cap, a cooling fan (electric or belt-driven), hoses, the heater core, and an overflow tank.
  • The Covering Body
    The body shell is a complex assortment of large steel sections. These sections have been stamped into shapes which make up the body of your car. These parts are designed to do many jobs at once; protect the occupants from the elements and in collisions, provide solid mounts for all other systems, and to slice through the air with minimal resistance.
  • Muffler
    These reduce the level of sound produced by an engine.
  • Transmission
  • Electrical Work
    The first part of the electrical system is the battery. The next part is the starter motor, which is used to start the engine. The third component is a charging device powered by the engine, known as the alternator. It powers the electrical system when the car is running, and restores the charge within the battery.
  • Fuel Pump
    These pump fuel to the engine, using a number of different processes.
  • Catalytic Converter
    A converter reduces harmful emissions from the car, and cleans exhaust fumes.
  • Pistons
    Common engines have up to eight pistons that slide up and down in cylinders. The combustion chamber is where fuel and air mix before they are ignited. A crankcase beside them is full of oil, keeping the engine lubricated. Generally, pistons have rings which keep the fuel components separated.
  • Crankshaft
    When pistons move up and down in cylinders, the crankshaft rotates, turning the piston motion into rotary motion.
  • Valve Train
    This lets air and fuel in and out of the engine at the right times. It is composed of valves, rocker arms, pushrods, lifters, and the cam shaft.
  • The Engine
    The engine of the car is where all the action happens. It pumps fuel and air, and changes them into a circular movement that turns the wheels of the car. Below are listed the major components of an engine.
  • Exhaust Manifold
    This mixes air and fuel into and explosive combination.
  • Brakes
    In most braking systems, the brake pedal is connected to a master cylinder by a push rod. The master cylinder is connected to the brake cylinders (slave cylinders) at each wheel by brake lines and rubber hoses. The entire hydraulic system is filled with brake fluid, which is forced through the system by the movement of the master cylinder pistons.
  • Fuel Injectors
    The fuel injector is a device that pushes fuel into the cylinder so it can be ignited.
  • Fuel Filter
    Filters clean the fuel so that it does not clog the fuel injectors in the engine.
  • Exhaust Pipe
    The exhaust pipe carries fumes out through the tail pipe of the car.
  • Fuel Tank
    This is where your fuel is stored.
  • How can I look after my car?
    The best way to look after your car is to have it serviced annually, regularly wash and clean the vehicle, ensure air pressure is always correct, monitor your oil and coolant levels, and get any problems checked by a mechanic as soon as possible.
  • How often should my car be serviced?
    Your car should be serviced at least once a year or every 15,000 miles driven, whichever occurs first. This ensures that all key components are examined regularly and will identify any small issues before they become large and costly problems.
  • What should I do if an engine light appears on my dashboard?
    The first thing you should do is consult your owner's manual. Every light is related to a different component of the car or engine. Not all lights will require mechanical repair and some are simply a warning that you need to add air to the tyres, etc. If repair work is required then bring your car to a mechanic as soon as possible.
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