Practical Test Info

Preparing for your Practical test:

Once you’ve passed your theory test, your instructor will tell you how ready you are for your Practical test. Naturally, we want you to pass first time, so here are a few ways we can give you that extra edge. Your Track Record log book keeps tabs on your progress – showing you where your strengths are and what skills you’ll need to brush up on.

Top 10 things to look out for:

The DSA (Driving Standards Agency) regularly publish the top 10 reasons why learners fail their Practical test. To maximise your chances of passing first time, here are some of the big things to look out for:

• Look carefully to judge when best to come out of side roads.
• Use the controls correctly and demonstrate good observation when reverse parking.
• Use the mirrors effectively long before you change direction or slow down
• Use the controls correctly and demonstrate good observation when reversing around a corner.
• Use signals correctly, including how to cancel them and not give misleading ones.
• Move away correctly from stationary positions, including good observation.
• Use the correct road position, particularly on bends, and show good lane discipline on roundabouts.
• Have good steering control, when making left or right turns for example.
• Get in the correct position when turning right.
• Don’t hesitate or cause delay. Always pull out promptly at junctions.

Booking your driving test.

When your Driving Instuctor feels you are ready he/she will discuss this with you. When you book your test you’ll need:

• Your provisional driving licence
• Your Theory test certificate number
• A debit or credit card for payment
• Your preferred dates and times for the test
• Details of any special requirements such as an interpreter.

The Practical test for car drivers costs £62.00 during weekdays or £75.00 for Saturday and weekday evening tests. After about two weeks, you’ll get your test appointment letter. You can cancel your test for any reason, but you’ll need to give ten working days’ notice to keep your fee. The Practical test can be rearranged up to three times before it’s automatically refunded. Or if you prefer, you can book your own Practical test directly with the DSA by calling 0300 200 1122, Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm. Remember to make sure your instructor is available on the day, and let them know when you get your test appointment letter.