Practical Driving Test

  • When you have passed the theory test, you can apply for a practical test. To book your practical test call: 0300 200 1122 or book online. You need your driving licence, theory test pass certificate and bank details to hand when you book the test.

  • The practical driving test takes around 40 minutes. To pass, you must show that you can drive safely and competently in various traffic conditions while adhering to the Highway Code. The test route will cover different types of roads, including some with speed limits over 30 mph. You’ll need to complete one reversing exercise and 10-20 minutes of independent driving, which may involve following a sat nav. Additionally, one in three tests includes an emergency stop. Contrary to common belief, there are no set pass or fail quotas if you meet the required standard, you will pass.

  • First, the examiner will greet you and ask you to sign the driving test report sheet. You'll then complete an eyesight check by reading a number plate from 20.5 meters away. Next, you'll answer a "tell me" question. Before you set off, the examiner will briefly explain the test. During the drive, you'll receive clear directions in advance and, at some point, be asked a "show me" question. Don't worry if you take a wrong turn, your ability to drive safely is what determines whether you pass.

  • You can make up to 15 driving faults and still pass the test. If you make 16 or more driving faults, you won't pass your test. If you make one serious or dangerous fault, you won't pass your test.

    There are three types of faults that can be marked:

    • a dangerous fault - involves actual danger to you, the examiner, the public or property.

    • a serious fault - could potentially be dangerous.

    • a driving fault - not potentially dangerous, but could become a serious fault if repeated many times.

  • If you pass, the examiner will provide a pass certificate and recommend any minor improvements needed. You’ll also have the option for the examiner to submit your driving license application on your behalf. To ensure it reaches you, please confirm that the examiner has your correct address.

    If you fail, the examiner will give you the option to have your driving instructor present for the debrief. The debrief will explain why you failed along with any minor improvements you require. You must wait ten clear working days before you can resit the test.

  • You must bring your provisional driving licence

Practical Driving Test

How to Book Your Practical Test

When you have passed the theory test, you can apply for a practical test. To book your practical test call: 0300 200 1122 or book online. You need your driving licence, theory test pass certificate and bank details to hand when you book the test.

About the Practical Test

The practical driving test takes around 40 minutes. To pass, you must show that you can drive safely and competently in various traffic conditions while adhering to the Highway Code. The test route will cover different types of roads, including some with speed limits over 30 mph. You’ll need to complete one reversing exercise and 10-20 minutes of independent driving, which may involve following a sat nav. Additionally, one in three tests includes an emergency stop. Contrary to common belief, there are no set pass or fail quotas if you meet the required standard, you will pass.

How is the Test Carried out?

First, the examiner will greet you and ask you to sign the driving test report sheet. You'll then complete an eyesight check by reading a number plate from 20.5 meters away. Next, you'll answer a "tell me" question. Before you set off, the examiner will briefly explain the test. During the drive, you'll receive clear directions in advance and, at some point, be asked a "show me" question. Don't worry if you take a wrong turn, your ability to drive safely is what determines whether you pass.

How is the Test Marked?

You can make up to 15 driving faults and still pass the test. If you make 16 or more driving faults, you won't pass your test. If you make one serious or dangerous fault, you won't pass your test.

There are three types of faults that can be marked:

  • a dangerous fault - involves actual danger to you, the examiner, the public or property.

  • a serious fault - could potentially be dangerous.

  • a driving fault - not potentially dangerous, but could become a serious fault if repeated many times.

Test Result

If you pass, the examiner will provide a pass certificate and recommend any minor improvements needed. You’ll also have the option for the examiner to submit your driving license application on your behalf. To ensure it reaches you, please confirm that the examiner has your correct address.

If you fail, the examiner will give you the option to have your driving instructor present for the debrief. The debrief will explain why you failed along with any minor improvements you require. You must wait ten clear working days before you can resit the test.

What Documents Should I Take?

You must bring your provisional driving licence