Driving Test - Frequently Asked Questions

What products can I use to help me prepare for the Driving Test?

To prepare properly for the practical test we recommend that you have good quality driving instruction but to accelerate your learning and understanding we recommend choosing a product from our Practical section in our Learnershop. If you already have the relevant material to revise with, make sure it's still in date, laws and procedures are changing all the time

Do examiners have pass/fail quotas?

Examiners do not have a quota for test passes or fails. If you demonstrate the standard required you will pass your test.

Can anyone accompany me on the test?

You can request that a friend or your instructor be present, but they must not interfere in any way. You should bring an interpreter with you if you need one, but you must not use an Approved Driving Instructor. Your interpreter must be 16 years or over and wear suitable seat restraints where they are available.

Can I use a car which is 'automatic' for the test?

Yes. When you pass your practical test your full driving licence will entitle you to drive an 'automatic' car. It will also act as a provisional licence for a car with a manual gearbox. See our Driving an automatic page for more information.

How should I drive during the test?

Drive in the way that your instructor has taught you. If you make a mistake, don't worry. It might be a minor mistake and may not affect your result. Your examiner will be looking for an overall safe standard. You won't fail for one minor mistake. Also whilst on your test DON'T!!!!! look at the examiners test sheet keep focused on what you're doing.

What if I do something dangerous?

If at any time during your test your examiner considers you to be a danger to other road users your test won't continue. Prepare yourself and wait until you reach the standards set out in The Official Driving Test book before you take your test.

What will the test include?

Apart from general driving, your test will include An eyesight test (If you fail this, your test won't continue). Two of the show me tell me questions. Special exercises - you'll be asked to carry out two of the following reversing around a corner, turning in the road, reverse parking. You may also be asked to carry out an emergency stop exercise.

Are the examiners supervised?

Yes, they are closely supervised. A senior officer may sit in on your test. Don't worry about this. The senior officer won't be examining you, but making sure the examiner is testing you properly. The senior officer won't interfere with the test, so just carry on as if he or she wasn't there.

How much notice do I have to give to cancel my practical test, so I don't lose my fee?

Three clear working days.

How do I book a practical test?

Visit our booking your driving test page for more information.

	We accept the following credit and debit cards......
	We also accept payments by......