The Driving Test

What happens on the day of my driving test? Your questions answered!

Before the Test
A lesson of at least one hour is recommended before your test so we can practice everything and so that you can properly relax. Of course if you wish to book a lesson of a longer duration, you may.

Fifteen minutes before the scheduled test time we will park at the Test Centre and proceed to the waiting room. At the scheduled time of the test, you will be called by the examiner who will ask to see your Photocard Driving Licence and your Theory Test Certificate. 

A declaration will need to be signed and your signature will be compared to the signature on your licence. Providing everything is in order, you will then both proceed outside.

Eye Sight Test
Outside the Test Centre, the examiner will ask you to read a number plate from 20.5 metres (67 feet) to ensure your eyesight is sufficient for driving. If you pass this, you will then proceed to the car.

Car Maintenance Questions
Before proceeding on the test, the examiner may ask you to lift the bonnet of the car and ask you some questions about basic car maintenance; they may also ask you further questions when you get inside the car. So that you are fully prepared for this part of the test, Lesley will fully brief you in advance and will show you how to find your way round the engine and explain the full range of in-car functions.

During the Test
Once the test begins you will spend around forty minutes driving according to the road markings and road signs and of course following the examiner's directions. An Emergency Stop may be requested and you will also be asked to demonstrate two manoeuvres which will be chosen from a turn in the road, reverse park, park in a bay or reverse round a corner.

The practical driving test includes 10 minutes of 'independent driving' during which you have to either follow road signs to a stated destination or follow a route shown to you on a diagram. If you forget the route at any point, you may ask for a reminder. If you go off course, it is OK, providing you do it safely, and the examiner will try to get you back on the correct route.

Finishing the Test
The test ends back at the Test Centre and it is at this point that you will be told by the examiner whether you have passed or failed. If you have unfortunately failed, you will be offered the opportunity to discuss why this was. Lesley will chat to you afterwards too and you can decide what you'd like to do next.

If you passed, well done! Lesley will drive you home and talk to you about enhancing your driving skills with Pass Plus or Motorway Lessons.

Need to know anything else? Feel free to contact us!