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When is the right time to book your practical driving test?
What will happen during your driving test?
The driving test usually lasts about 40 minutes.
If you were banned from driving in the past, the test may take a little longer.
The test is the same for manual and automatic cars.
The test has several different parts.
Safety questions: “tell me” and “show me”
The examiner will ask two car safety questions.
One question will ask you to explain how to check something on the car (for example, oil level or tyre pressure).
The second question will ask you to show how to use something while driving (such as lights or windscreen washers).
These questions check that you understand basic vehicle safety.
Eyesight check
Before driving, you must read a car number plate from about 20 metres away.
If you wear glasses or contact lenses, bring them with you.
If you cannot read the number plate, the test will end.
Driving part of the test
You will drive on different types of roads.
The examiner will give you directions during most of the test.
For about 20 minutes, you will drive independently by:
Following a sat nav (navigation system), or
Following traffic signs.
Vehicle checks: “Show me” tasks
The examiner may ask you to show how something in the car works.
For example, you may need to clean the rear window or use the horn.
There are several possible tasks they can choose from.
You can find the full list of these questions on the Welcome to GOV.UK website.
Driving skills during the test
The examiner will give you instructions, similar to your driving lessons. You may be asked to:
Move off safely from the side of the road or from behind a parked car.
Pull over and stop safely at the side of the road.
Do a hill start without rolling backwards.
Perform a emergency stop when told (you will be warned first).
Follow road signs and directions safely.
You will not be asked to drive on motorways during the test.
Reversing and parking tasks
To check your control and awareness, the examiner will ask you to complete one of the following:
Reverse into a parking bay and drive out.
Drive into a parking bay and reverse out.
Reverse parallel park behind another car.
Park on the right side of the road and reverse back about two car lengths.
How do I get ready for my practical driving test?
If this is your first time taking the test, these steps can help you prepare:
Visit the test centre before your test so you know the roads and the area.
Practice driving often, including different manoeuvres.
Study the Highway Code to understand road rules and signs.
Ask your instructor to help more with anything you find difficult.
Book your test in the morning if you think you will feel nervous.
The day before your test, rest well and get enough sleep.
A few hours before the test, use your phone less to stay focused.
Only take the test when you feel confident and ready. Do not rush just to get your licence.
What is the purpose of the practical driving test?
The practical test is used to make sure you can:
Control a car safely without help from others.
Drive well on busy and quiet roads.
Follow road signs, signals, and traffic laws.