Ultimate Practical Driving Test Guide

Booking & Preparation

How do I book my driving test?
The driving test is set by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). You can easily book your practical test on the official GOV.UK website here. You'll need your provisional licence, a debit/credit card, and a valid email address.

When can I take it?
You can book your practical test immediately after passing your theory test. Remember, your theory pass certificate expires after two years, so be sure to pass the practical test during this time.

What do I need to bring?
On the day of your test, you must bring:

Your UK photocard driving licence.
Your theory test pass certificate.
Your glasses or contact lenses if you need them to drive.

Can I take the test in my own car?
Yes, provided it meets the strict rules set by the DVSA. However, most people use their instructor's car, which is fully dual-controlled and already guaranteed to be test-ready.

Can I bring someone else along?
Absolutely. You're allowed to be accompanied by your instructor, or by a friend/relative (who must be over 16) to sit in the back. They can also accompany you when you get your result and feedback.

What's in the Practical Test?

The test lasts around 40 minutes (or 60-70 minutes for an extended test) and is exactly the same whether you're driving an automatic or manual car. It is divided into five main sections:

1. Eyesight Check

This ensures your eyesight is up to driving standard. The examiner will ask you to read a number plate from 20 metres away. Note: If you can't read the number plate, you will instantly fail the test.

2. 'Show Me, Tell Me' Safety Questions

The examiner will ask you two vehicle safety questions. Getting one wrong will result in one minor fault. Here are the questions you might be asked:

14 'Tell Me' Questions (Asked before you drive)

Brakes: How to check they are working (shouldn't feel spongy or slack, car shouldn't pull to one side).
Tyre Pressure: Where to find the info (manufacturer's guide) and how to check (use a reliable gauge when cold).
Tyre Condition: Check for cuts/bulges and ensure 1.6mm tread depth across the central three-quarters.
Head restraint: Ensure the rigid part is at least as high as your eye/ear level.
Headlights/Tail lights: Turn on the switch (ignition if necessary) and walk around the car to check.
ABS fault: Explain that an ABS warning light would illuminate on the dashboard if there's a fault.
Indicators: Turn on the hazard lights and walk around to check they are flashing.
Brake lights: Press the brake pedal and use reflections in windows/doors, or ask someone to help.
Power steering: Heavy steering indicates a fault. Check by applying gentle pressure on the steering wheel while starting the engine.
Engine Oil: Open the bonnet, identify the dipstick, wipe clean, dip again, and check level is between min/max marks.
Engine Coolant: Open the bonnet, identify the high/low level markings on the header tank, and describe how to top up.
Brake Fluid: Open the bonnet, identify the reservoir, and check the level against the high/low markings.
Rear Demister: Turn on the ignition and press the rear demister button.
Windscreen Washer: Turn on the ignition and operate the washer switch.

7 'Show Me' Questions (Asked while you are driving)

Show me how to wash and clean the rear windscreen.
Show me how to wash and clean the front windscreen.
Show me how to switch on your dipped headlights.
Show me how to set the rear demister.
Show me how to operate the horn.
Show me how to demist the front windscreen.
Show me how to open and close the side window.

3. General Driving Ability

It's time to get on the road! Your examiner will instruct you where to go. You may be asked to perform manoeuvres like pulling over, pulling away from behind a vehicle, or a hill start. You may also have to perform an emergency stop (with plenty of prior warning). You will not be asked to drive on a motorway.

4. Reversing the Vehicle

The examiner will test your reversing ability by asking you to do one of the following:

Reverse into a parking bay, or drive in forwards and reverse out.
Pull up next to a parked vehicle and parallel park behind it.
Pull up on the right-hand side of the road, reverse for two car lengths, and rejoin the traffic.

5. Independent Driving

For roughly 20 minutes, you will drive by following directions from a Sat Nav (set up by the examiner) or by following traffic signs. The purpose is to show you can drive safely without constant instruction. Taking a wrong turn won't necessarily mark you down, so don't panic if you go slightly off-route!

Understanding the Scoring

The examiner will tally up any mistakes (faults) you make. For the most part, they won't tell you if you've made a fault until the end of the test. There are three types of faults:

A Driving Fault (Minor)

These are scorable errors that are not necessarily dangerous. One or two won't cause you to fail, but making the exact same mistake repeatedly could be upgraded to a serious fault. You will pass as long as you get 15 or fewer minor faults.

A Serious Fault (Major)

These are potentially dangerous errors. Getting even one serious fault will result in a fail, although the examiner will usually allow you to continue and finish the test.

A Dangerous Fault

A dangerous fault is one which puts you, the examiner, property, or the public in actual danger. This is an instant fail, and the test will be stopped immediately.

The Results

What happens if I've passed?
Congratulations, you are a qualified driver! You will be given a pass certificate and asked if you'd like your full licence sent to you automatically (we highly recommend this!). A pass is 15 minors or fewer, and no serious or dangerous faults.

What happens if I fail?
Don't be too down about it! You can rebook your test and try again. It is incredibly important to take the examiner's feedback on board, as this will show you exactly what to focus on with your instructor before your next attempt. We are all rooting for you!

Ultimate Practical Test Guide