The answer is yes, You will also need to provide your instructor with the last 8 digits, and a code to allow your instructor to view your licence online as part of our checks. Once this has been completed you will be able to book your first lesson.
No you can start lessons before you take your theory test. We would encourage you to start work on your theory though as this can help with the knowledge you will need to become a safe driver. However you do need to have passed your theory test to book a practical driving test. Lastly your theory test is valid for 2 years from the date of passing, so if you don’t pass your practical test within this timeframe you would need to take your theory test again however this is quite a rare occurrence.
This will depend on your availability, your instructors availability, and any other commitments for example a short notice driving test for another student. Your instructor will always work around your availability where possible.