All you need to know about the day of your test
The Practical Driving Test is conducted on a variety of roads with different speeds and a number of junction types, roundabouts, lane driving (dual carriageway). It is normal to carry out one of the reversing manoeuvres, controlled stop and a percentage of candidates will also be required to perform an emergency stop (approximately 1 in 3 tests). The Driving Test will last about 40 minutes but can be longer if traffic is heavy.
If you require any more information about the theory test, then please click here…
Independent Driving:
As of 4th December 2017, learner drivers will be tested on their independent driving as part of the practical test. During the test, the candidates will have to drive independently for about 20 minutes either following a series of directions from a satnav, following traffic signs or a combination of both. To help candidates understand where they are going, the examiner may show them a diagram of the proposed test route.
Practical Driving Test Manoeuvres
Practical driving test candidates (category B) will have to complete one reversing manoeuvre which is selected at random from:-
- Parallel park at the side of the road
- Park in a bay (either driving in and reversing out or reversing in and driving out)
- Pull up on the right-hand side of the road, reverse for two car lengths and re-join the traffic.
In addition to this a controlled stop is carried out on every practical driving test (this means stopping in a place specified by the examiner.) An emergency stop exercise will still be conducted on one in three tests.
Click here to view a video on forward parking
Click here to view a video on how to pull up on the right and reverse back
Click here to view a video on parallel/reverse parking
How to Book Your Practical Driving Test
To book your DVSA Practical Driving, please click here
To book your practical test you will need the following:-
- Theory Test Certificate Number
- Provisional Driving Licence Number
- Full Name and Date of Birth
- A valid card for payment
IMPORTANT NOTE: Some sites are charging booking fees and making promises of free retests, make sure you use the link above.
If you need to cancel your Driving Test you must give at least 5 working days notice or you will lose your Test Fee.
The Show me/Tell me questions and Vehicle checks
The examiner will ask a ‘show me’ question while driving.
For example, you might be asked to show the examiner how to wash the windscreen using the car controls and wipers, or turn on headlights whilst driving.
Click here to view a video on show me/tell me questions
What to bring with you for your Practical Driving Test
As of the 8th June 2015 you will only need your Provisional Driving Licence (photo part only), the print- out of your Practical Driving Test Booking Confirmation and it is also wise to have your Theory Pass Certificate with you on the day.
On the day of your Practical Driving Test it is advisable to have a driving lesson beforehand so you are warmed up and ready for your test. At the Test Centre you will be required to take a quick eyesight check (you should be able to read a number plate at a distance of 20 metres), after this you will be asked a few car safety questions (show me tell me).
During your Practical Driving Test you are expected to drive to your best ability, there is a maximum allowance of 15 minor driving faults that can be committed. However, you must not make any serious or dangerous faults as this will result in a test failure.
If you require more information about booking your Practical Test, please click here
