The driving test is straightforward and has been designed for you to show your practical skills and understanding of the Highway Code and the theory of driving safely.
Before you start the driving test you'll have an eyesight test and two vehicle safety questions "show me tell me".
Show Me Tell Me
| Show/Tell | ||
| Show | Show me how you would check that your direction indicators are working? | You may need to switch on the ignition but do not need to start the engine. Apply the indicators or hazard warning switch and check that all indicators are fully functional. |
| Tell | Tell me how you would check that your brakes are working correctly | The brakes do not feel spongy or slack. You should test the brakes as you move off. The car should not pull to one side. |
| Show | Show me how you would clean the windscreen using the windscreen washer and wipers. | Turn ignition on if required and operate the control to wash and wipe the windscreen. |
| Tell | Tell me how you would check the headlights and tail lights are working. | As this is a tell me question there is no need to exit the vehicle. Explain: turn on ignition if required, operate switch , then walk around vehicle |
The Eyesight Test
The examiner will ask you to read the number plate on a parked vehicle to test your eyesight. If you fail the check, your driving test won't continue.
You'll have to read the number plate from a distance of:
20 metres for vehicles with a new-style number plate
20.5 metres for vehicles with an old-style number plate
New-style number plates start with two letters followed by two numbers, for example AB51 ABC.
The driving part of your test will last about 40 minutes. Throughout the test your examiner will be looking for an overall safe standard of driving.
Independent driving section of the driving test
Your driving test will include around ten minutes of independent driving. This is designed to assess your ability to drive safely while making decisions independently.
You'll have to drive independently by either following:
traffic signs
a series of directions
a combination of both
To help you understand where you are going when following verbal directions, the examiner will show you a diagram.
If you go off the independent driving route it won't affect the result of your test unless you commit a driving fault.
If you go off the route or take a wrong turning, the examiner will help you to get back on the route. You can then continue with the independent driving.
