Are you ready to take your driving test? If you’re a learner driver, understanding the process can make all the difference. At Driving Lessons at Home, we’re here to help you pass with confidence. In this blog, we’ll break down every step of the driving test so you know exactly what to expect.
1. Before the Test
Before your driving test begins, make sure you have the following:
- Provisional Driving Licence: You must bring your valid provisional licence.
- Theory Test Certificate: Proof that you’ve passed your theory test.
- Car Insurance: If you’re using your own car, ensure it’s insured for the test.
- Test-Ready Vehicle: If not using a driving school car, your vehicle must be roadworthy and meet all test requirements (e.g., an extra interior mirror for the examiner).
Arrive at the test centre before your scheduled time. But do not enter the car park any earlier than 10 minutes before your test time because some of the car parks have limited space.
An examiner will introduce themselves and ask to see your documents.
2. Eyesight Check
The first part of the driving test is a simple eyesight check. You’ll need to read a car number plate from a distance of:
- 20 metres for vehicles with a new-style number plate (post-2001).
- 20.5 metres for vehicles with an old-style number plate.
If you fail this, the test will not proceed.
3. Show Me, Tell Me Questions
The examiner will ask you two vehicle safety questions:
- “Tell me” question: This is asked before you start driving. For example, “Tell me how you’d check the brakes are working before starting a journey.”
- “Show me” question: This is asked while driving. For example, “Show me how you’d use the front washer jets.”
4. General Driving Ability
The main part of the test assesses your driving ability on the road. You’ll drive for approximately 40 minutes and will be evaluated on:
- Controlled Stops: Demonstrating smooth and safe braking.
- Observations and Awareness: Checking mirrors and blind spots regularly.
- Following Road Signs: Adhering to traffic signs, signals, and speed limits.
- Lane Discipline: Staying in the correct lane and planning your routes effectively.
- Judgment: Handling junctions, roundabouts, and overtaking safely.
The examiner will give clear directions throughout, so don’t worry about knowing the route.
5. Independent Driving
For 20 minutes of the test, you’ll follow directions using either:
- A Sat Nav: Provided by the examiner.
- Traffic Signs: If you’re not using a sat nav.
This section tests your ability to make decisions independently while driving.
6. Manoeuvres
You’ll need to demonstrate one reversing manoeuvre from the following options:
- Parallel Park: At the side of the road.
- Bay Park: Either driving into or reversing into a bay.
- Pull Up on the Right: Then reverse for two car lengths and rejoin traffic.
7. Emergency Stop
One in three tests will include an emergency stop. The examiner will ask you to perform this manoeuvre safely and promptly.
8. The End of the Test
After returning to the test centre, the examiner will give you your result:
- Pass: Congratulations! You’ll receive a pass certificate and can start driving immediately. Once you have the correct insurance!
- Fail: The examiner will explain why you didn’t pass and provide feedback to help you improve for next time.
Final Tips
- Practice Makes Perfect: use our Driving Lessons at Home course and focus on areas you find challenging.
- Stay Calm: Nerves are normal, but staying calm will help you focus better.
- Listen to Feedback: Use any feedback from mock tests or previous attempts to improve.