"Practical Driving Test

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" You’ve got your provisional driving licence, and you’ve passed the theory driving test. Now, the final step towards your full driving licence—the practical car driving test. It can feel daunting, but your driving instructor at Drivehassans believes in your abilities. At Drivehassans in Bristol, we’re here to support you. Here's everything you need to know to ace your car driving test with confidence."

"The driving test in England, Wales, and Scotland is conducted by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), while in Northern Ireland, it's managed by the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA). You can book your driving test online on the GOV.UK website, or via Northern Ireland's specific booking platform. To book, ensure you have your provisional driving licence, a debit or credit card, and a valid email address. No email? Don’t worry—you can book by phone at 0300 200 1122 (Monday-Friday, 8am-4pm) or, for Northern Ireland, 0345 600 6700 (Monday-Friday, 8am-12pm)."

You can book your practical test after you’ve passed the driving theory test . You receive a pass certificate number. This expires after two years, so be sure to pass the practical test during this time. There’s no time like the present, so why not book it now?

DVSA  recommends about 47 hours  lessons and private practice. The rule of thumb is to take your test when you’re ready. Your driving instructor is best placed to decide this.

On the day, you need to take your photocard driving licence. Take the paper counterpart too if you’re taking your test in Northern Ireland.  You’ll also need your theory test pass certificate. And don’t forget your glasses if you need them to drive.

No provided it meets rules set by the DVSA, you can take the practical test in your own vehicle. Most people use their instructor’s car, which will already be test-ready.

The driving test is divided into five sections:  

1. Eyesight check 

2. Safety questions; aka ‘show me, tell me’

3. General driving ability 

4. Reversing the vehicle

5. Independent driving  

It lasts around 40 minutes, and is the same whether you’re driving an automatic or manual. If you’ve been previously disqualified, you have to take an extended test, which lasts around 60-70 minutes.

No provided it meets rules set by the DVSA, you can take the practical test in your own vehicle. Most people use their instructor’s car, which will already be test-ready.