What to expect during the driving test

1. Introduction and Check (5 minutes)

• Arrival at the Test Centre: When you arrive at the test centre, you’ll need to bring your provisional driving licence 
• Eye Test: The examiner will ask you to read a number plate from a distance of 20.5 meters. If you fail, you won’t be allowed to take the test.
• Identity Check: The examiner may ask for proof of your identity if needed.

2. Vehicle Safety Questions (5 minutes)

• Before you begin driving, the examiner will ask you two "show me, tell me" questions related to the car’s functions. For example:
  • Tell me: "How would you check the engine oil level?"
  • Show me: "Can you show me how to turn on your car’s headlights?"

These questions test your knowledge of basic car maintenance and safety checks.

3. The Driving Test (30-35 minutes)

This part of the test will evaluate your practical driving skills. You’ll be expected to:

a. General Driving Ability

• Control of the vehicle: Steering, changing gears, using the handbrake, and operating the pedals smoothly.
• Road Positioning: Keeping the car in the correct lane, staying safe and aware of other road users, and making effective use of mirrors and signals.
• Speed Awareness: Observing speed limits and adjusting your speed based on road conditions.

b. Manoeuvres (You will be asked to do one of the following)

You’ll be asked to perform one of the following manoeuvres during the test:

• Parallel Parking: Reversing into a parking space while staying within the lines.
• Bay Parking: Driving into a parking space and reversing out, or reversing into a bay.
• Pulling Up on the Right: Stopping on the right-hand side of the road, then reversing back 2 car lengths. 

You might not be asked to do all of these manoeuvres, but one or two will be included.

c. Independent Driving (20 minutes)

• This section tests your ability to follow directions without guidance from the examiner. You’ll either be asked to follow sat-nav directions or road signs for around 20 minutes.
• The examiner may give you verbal directions or set the sat-nav. It’s important to stay calm and focused, as this section is meant to test your ability to drive independently,

4. The Emergency Stop (Optional)

• The examiner may ask you to perform an emergency stop during the test. If requested, you will need to stop the car quickly and safely, simulating a situation where a hazard appears suddenly.