OmegaDrive

Practical Test

The practical driving test is conducted from driving test centres around the country. I use the Guildford and Farnborough centres.

You will be expected to drive to a high standard to pass the test. The test lasts about 40 minutes.  Examiners do not have a "quota" of passes. If you achieve the required standard, you will pass.

Your instructor or a friend may sit in the back of the car whilst you take the test but must not interfere in any way with the test either verbally or with signals.

During the test, you will be taken on a specific route which is designed to cover many different types of road.
You will be allowed to make up to 15 minor faults. These include things such as an incorrect signal, a missed mirror check, stalling the engine or not making progress when necessary (hesitating).

A single major fault means you will fail. Major faults include things such as breaking the law, causing another road user to change speed or direction to avoid you, driving with a wheel on the kerb (eg during a manoeuvre), failing to react correctly to road signs (eg speed limits) or road (lane) markings.

There is currently a waiting time of about 8/10 weeks at both Guildford and Farnborough test centre. This means that I may suggest you apply for the test before you are completely ready for it.

The full text from the DSA for practical tests can be viewed