The Driving Test  

The driving test is approximately 35-40 minutes in duration. Your driving test will start with an eyesight check, you will be asked to read a new-style number plate from 20 metres away (or an old-style number plate from 20.5 metres away). Further information about driving eyesight requirements can be found on www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/LearnerAndNewDrivers/LearningToDriveOrRide. After the eyesight test candidates will be asked two vehicle safety questions, one 'show me' and one 'tell me'. One or both questions answered incorrectly will result in one driving fault being recorded. You will then start your practical driving test which will include one reversing exercise which will be chosen from the following:

The test also includes 10 minutes of independent driving. This is carried out by following:

The examiner may show you a diagram showing where you will be going. If you ask for a reminder of the directions, the examiner will confirm them to you.

Throughout the test your examiner will be looking for an overall safe standard of driving (including the manoeuvre), and also that you can demonstrate knowledge of the Highway Code throughout your driving. You can make up to 15 faults and still pass the test (16 or more results in failure). However, if you commit one serious or dangerous fault you will fail the test. If at any time your examiner considers you to be a danger to other road users your test will be stopped.

During the test the examiner will give you directions which you should follow. Test routes are designed to be as uniform as possible and will include a range of typical road and traffic conditions.

Throughout the test you should drive in the way your instructor has taught you. If you make a mistake, don't worry about it, it might be a less serious driving fault and may not affect your result.

After the practical test

When the driving test is over, the examiner will tell you whether you passed or failed. You can request feedback on your test from the examiner, who will then go through your performance during the test.

If you pass...

If you pass and have a photocard driving licence issued after 1 March 2004 the examiner will ask you if you want your full driving licence issued to you automatically.

If you want to use this service, the examiner will take your old licence off you, scan the details and send them electronically to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). You will then be given a pass certificate to prove you passed your test. DVLA will then send you your new full licence by post within four weeks of you passing your practical test.

If you pass your test but do not want to use this automatic service, or have a licence issued before 1 March 2004, you will be given a pass certificate by the examiner. On the back of the pass certificate it tells you what you need to do next. This involves sending your licence and appropriate fee to DVLA who will then check your application and issue you with a new full licence.

If you fail...

If you fail the test you should ask the examiner for some feedback to help prepare yourself for your next test. Your driving report form will also show you where you made any mistakes. You can take another practical test 10 working days after your car or motorcycle test.

The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) is now able to offer tests outside the normal test times at a number of test centres. This provides customers with a wider range of appointments over an extended working day.

Practical tests are generally available at all permanent test centres. Saturday and weekday evening tests, subject to resources being available, are offered at a premium rate. Non premium rate tests are available at various times between 7.30am and 3.27pm Monday to Friday.