Apparition (class)

Apparition This subject is optional and lessons cost 12 Galleons. Apparition is the art of magically disappearing from one place and reappearing in another. It requires a licence and can only be done legally by people over 17 years of age. It is dangerous if done improperly: body parts can be left behind, an unfortunate side-effect known as "splinching." Ron Weasley failed his first Apparition test after leaving behind half an eyebrow. A more serious incident occurred previously when fellow student Susan Bones splinched during Apparition lessons, losing a leg, although this was quickly reattached by members of the Hogwarts staff.

Students at Hogwarts who are 17, or turn 17 during the school year, may take a twelve-week-long course starting shortly after the Christmas holidays. In Harry's sixth year, it is taught by Ministry-approved instructor Wilkie Twycross. While Ron failed his initial test for a very minor splinch, Hermione passed flawlessly. Harry, Draco Malfoy and Ernie Macmillan are some of the sixth-year students who had to wait longer to take their Apparition test because of their late birthdays; Ron intends to retake his test when Harry takes it. Harry, however, is very good at Apparition since he uses the skill in his sixth year, several weeks before he can legally take the test.

Receiving an Apparition licence can somewhat be compared to receiving a driver's licence in the Muggle world. Both are privileges reserved for those in their late teens, dangerous if done improperly or not paying attention, and considerable time savers for reaching a destination quickly (although Apparition is restricted in some areas and – normally – impossible in others such as Hogwarts).