UK Practical Driving Test: Overview and Process

1. Test Preparation

Before the test begins, you’ll need to ensure your vehicle is roadworthy. Your examiner will introduce themselves and ask for your license to confirm your address and details. They will also check:

• Car insurance
• MOT certificate
• The car meets the requirements set by the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency)

2. Introduction and Vehicle Safety Checks (Show Me, Tell Me)

The test begins with a brief introduction from your examiner, followed by vehicle safety questions. You’ll be asked to demonstrate your knowledge by answering two “show me, tell me” questions. For example:

• “Tell me how you would check the oil level in the car”
• “Show me how to operate the headlights”

3. The Road Drive

The main part of the test is the road drive, which typically lasts around 40 minutes. During this time, you will be asked to drive on various types of roads, including:

• Busy streets
• Quieter residential areas
• Possibly motorways (if included in your test)

You will be expected to follow traffic signs, use mirrors, signal appropriately, and demonstrate good control over the vehicle.

4. Independent Driving

During the test, you will be required to drive independently for about 20 minutes, following directions from:

• A sat-nav
• Road signs

This assesses your ability to plan and follow routes without assistance from the examiner.

5. Manoeuvres

You will be asked to perform certain driving manoeuvres. These could include:

• Parallel parking
• Bay parking (reversing into a parking bay)
• Forward into a parking bay
• Reversing on the right side of the road
• Emergency stop (optional)

6. Faults and Scoring

The examiner will record any faults you make during the test. There are three types of faults:

• Minor faults: Not serious, but noted
• Major faults: Serious mistakes lead to failure
• Dangerous faults: Driving that could cause a serious risk

To pass the test, you must not accumulate more than 15 minor faults or any major/dangerous faults.

7. End of the Test

At the end of the test, the examiner will inform you whether you have passed or failed. If you pass, they will:

• Provide a pass certificate
• Guide you on how to apply for your full driving licence

If you fail, the examiner will explain the reasons and suggest areas for improvement.

8. Post-Test

If you fail the test, you can rebook another one after a waiting period of 10 working days. The examiner will provide feedback on the test, so you can focus on improving those areas before retaking the test.