The Driving Test

So, you're finally ready to take your driving test—or, at least, your instructor tells you that you're ready. Before we get into the nitty gritty of things, you'll want to read up on what to expect before and after your driving test. If you've not got the time, here's a quick summary of what you need to do before you set off for your test:

1. Make sure you've got your provisional licence as you won't be able to take your test without it!

2. Bring your theory test pass certificate just in case the examiner wants to check it.

3. Bring your instructor's car (or your own) and decide whether you want your instructor to sit in with you.

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It's advised that you arrive at your chosen test centre around 10 minutes before your test is due to start. Though it might seem obvious, you should triple check the date, time and location of your driving test. You will not get a refund if you end up showing up to the wrong test centre.

Whilst you'll want to set off early, just in case you get stuck in traffic, it's important that you don't arrive too early. If you do, you could end up getting in the way of other candidates taking their driving test.

Once you arrive at your test centre, you and your instructor will head on over to the waiting room. Your driving examiner will show up shortly and ask you to sign a couple of forms before you head outside. You'll undoubtedly partake in a bit of small talk with the examiner before the driving test begins.

Now onto the interesting part! Though the driving test is a source of frustration and fear for many learners, it's pretty basic, at least, in regards to structure. Once you've left the waiting area, the examiner will briefly explain what's about to unfold.

The driving test itself is split into five simple sections:

1. An eyesight test

2. The 'show me, tell me' questions

3. General driving ability

4. A reversing manoeuvre

5. Independent driving

Phew! It doesn't seem half as bad now, does it? If your answer is still yes, don't worry. You'll be sure to change your mind once we've broken down each section for you!

During this section, you'll have to watch 14 clips that will contain developing hazards. Each time you see a developing hazard, you'll need to click your mouse. Each hazard is worth 5 points, and you'll need to score 44 out of 75 to pass.

If you've heard from a reliable source that all you need to do is click frequently, you should give this method a rethink. Clicking in a consistent pattern or just continuously will cause the software to think you're cheating and give you zero marks.

No matter how hard you try, you cannot physically book a practical test until you've passed your theory test. When you pass, you're given a pass certificate which contains your theory test pass number—information that is needed when booking a driving test. Wondering why the DVSA has gone to such lengths?

It's simple, really. As we've already discussed, the theory test is essentially the foundation of your driving knowledge. Practical knowledge and experience is good, yes, but you need to be sure you've got the rules and laws sorted out too. Imagine what our roads would look like if drivers weren't familiar with certain road signs, or didn't know what to do on approach to a junction—it would be utter chaos!

No matter how hard you try, you cannot physically book a practical test until you've passed your theory test. When you pass, you're given a pass certificate which contains your theory test pass number—information that is needed when booking a driving test. Wondering why the DVSA has gone to such lengths?

It's simple, really. As we've already discussed, the theory test is essentially the foundation of your driving knowledge. Practical knowledge and experience is good, yes, but you need to be sure you've got the rules and laws sorted out too. Imagine what our roads would look like if drivers weren't familiar with certain road signs, or didn't know what to do on approach to a junction—it would be utter chaos!

In order you book your theory test, you'll need to provide:

• An identity document, unless you have a UK biometric passport

• Your address history for the last 3 years

• Your National Insurance number

In order you book your theory test, you need to be over the age of 17—unless you qualify for Personal Independence Payment (PIP), in which case you can take it from your 16th birthday.

You'll also need a provisional licence to book it, which will cost you £34 if you apply online.

Your provisional should arrive within one week. Once you've got that, you can book your theory test for a fee of £23.

Unlike the practical test, there's no additional fee for a weekend test. You'll get a confirmation email or letter once you've booked your test. It's important that you check again that you've got the right date, time and theory test centre. 

Don't want the hassle of dealing with long waiting times? Add a theory test onto a Driving Skill course and we'll find you a test according to your availability and chosen test centre.

Well done, you've passed, you'll finally be able to use your theory test pass certificate number to book your driving test. If you have not arranged your driving lessons yet, we recommend calling us. That's because your theory test certificate expires after two years. If you don't pass your test within this period, you'll have to retake your theory test again. 

If you want to avoid having to take your theory test again, book an intensive driving course with Driving Skill, and we'll have you on the road well before your two years are up.

Driving Skill intensive courses and driving lessons are designed to suit learners with all levels of experience.

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