Pratical Driving Test

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This is it! You’ve got your provisional licence, and you’ve aced the theory test. Now the final step before getting your full licence - the practical driving test. It can be a little daunting. But your driving instructor believes you can do it. We believe you can do it. So here’s everything you need to know about taking your practical driving test.

The driving test is set by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) in England, Wales and Scotland; and the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) in Northern Ireland. You can book your driving test on the GOV.UK website, or book here if you live in Northern Ireland. You’ll need your provisional licence, and a debit or credit card to pay. You also need a valid email address.  If you don’t have an email address, you need to book over the phone. You can call 0300 200 1122 Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm; or - if you live in Northern Ireland - call 0345 600 6700 Monday to Friday, 8am to 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.