The Practical Driving Test:
What to Expect
Preparing for your UK driving test can feel overwhelming, but knowing exactly what to expect will help you feel confident and ready on the day. This guide explains the structure of the test, what you’ll be assessed on, and how to prepare.
On the Day of Your Test
What to Bring:
Your UK provisional driving licence
Your theory test pass certificate (if required)
A suitable car for the test (if not using your instructor’s vehicle) More information can be found here:
https://www.gov.uk/driving-test/using-your-own-car
Arrive at least 10 minutes early. Being late may result in your test being cancelled.
The Structure of the UK Driving Test
The practical test lasts around 40 minutes (longer if you’re taking an extended test). It includes:
Eyesight Check
You’ll be asked to read a number plate from 20 metres. If you fail this, the test cannot continue.
‘Show Me, Tell Me’ Vehicle Safety Questions
You’ll be asked:
One “tell me” question at the start of the test (explain how you’d carry out a safety task).
One “show me” question during the drive (demonstrate vehicle control).
Example topics include emplaining how you would check the oil level, tyre pressure, or using the demister on the move.
Your Driving Ability
(including independent driving)
You’ll drive in various road and traffic conditions, but not on motorways.
You’ll drive independently for 20 to 35 minutes. You’ll need to follow either:
- directions from a sat nav
- traffic signs
- a combination of both
The examiner will tell you which you have to follow.
They’ll set the sat nav up for you. You cannot use your own sat nav.
Going off the route
The examiner will not give you a fault for taking a wrong turning.
They’ll help you get back on the route if you do.
If you’re not following a sat nav or traffic signs
The examiner will give you turn-by-turn directions to follow at any time when you’re not following directions from a sat nav or traffic signs.
Driving test routes are not published, so you cannot check them before your test.
Pulling over at the side of the road
You’ll be asked to pull over and pull away during your test, including:
- a normal stop at the side of the road
- pulling out from behind a parked vehicle
- a hill start
You might also be asked to carry out an emergency stop.
Reversing Manoeuvre
You will be asked to complete one of the following:
- Parallel park at the side of the road
- Park in a bay (either driving in and reversing out, or reversing in and driving out)
- Pull up on the right-hand side of the road, reverse, and rejoin traffic
You are assessed on control, observation, and safety.