Practical Driving Test

This is conducted by an examiner employed by the Driving Standards Agency. The examiner will check your eyesight and you must correctly read a vehicle number plate at a distance of 20.5M (67', or about 5 car lengths). It is extremely important to have regular eyesight checks throughout your driving career. You will then be asked a Show Me and a Tell Me question. A full list of possible questions is on this website.

The driving element of your test will last for approximately 40 minutes. It will pass quickly. Don't worry if you notice the examiner marking the test sheet - it may be simply that he/she is marking that a manoeuvre has been carried out. You will pass the test if you make no more than 15 minor and no serious or dangerous faults.

Your instructor may, at your request, accompany you on your driving test. Although he can take no part in the test, his presence may serve to put you at ease.

If you don't pass the test, use this as a learning experience. You can ask your instructor to listen to the examiners de-brief and this will help to structure remedial training in preparation for your next attempt.