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The Tests.
In order to obtain a Full UK Driving License you must pass both a Theory and Practical Test.
The Theory Test.
You must pass your Theory Test before you will be allowed to apply for the Practical Test. It consists of 2 parts:
- Multiple Choice Questions.
- Hazard Perception Test.
To pass Part 1: You must get at least 43 correct answers out of 50.
You will need to have a good working knowledge of the Highway Code and understanding of Road Traffic Signs.
The AA has a free web site quiz which you can use to practice or look at my Links page for additional recommended training material.
Currently, you have to read a case study and then answer 5 questions about it.
This tests your knowledge and understanding of road rules.
You will watch one video clip and answer 3 questions about it.
You can watch the video clip as many times as you like during the multiple-choice part of the theory test.
To pass Part 2: You must get at least 44 correct answers out of 75.
There is more information about the Theory Test on the DSA web site, where you can also book the test online.
The Practical Test.
The examiner will arrive and call your name, they will then need to check your identity, so you must bring your Driving License with you for your test.
The examiner will ask you if you would like your driving instructor to sit in and observe your practical driving test.
In general, you should have discussed this with your instructor well before the test in order to decide what you want to do. At the end of the day this is your decision and should be based on how you feel. I would have previously recommended that I sit in on your test, as it is always useful to have “another pair of eyes” should you be unsuccessful. In this way we can discuss what happened after the test and also agree what needs to be done in order to address any issues prior to your next test.
However, as I am now classified as Clinically Vunerable, it is unlikely that I will be available to sit in on your test. If this is likely to present a problem please let me know as soon as possible.
They will also ask you if you would like your instructor to attend the debrief at the end of the test. Again, you should have discussed this previously with your instructor, but I would recommend that I do, because it is useful to have someone else listening to the invaluable feedback the examiner will provide you with at the end of the test.
Once your documents and eye sight have been checked without any problems, you will be asked to demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of some basic car maintenance and safety checks, through the SHOW ME TELL ME questions.
There are two types of question; the first where you will have to TELL the examiner the correct answer; the second, where you will have to SHOW the examiner something on your vehicle.
You can be asked questions about a wide range of topics including tyres, power steering, brakes, ABS warning lights, head restraints, fluid levels, direction indicators, and horn etc.
The current list of questions and answers can be found on the following AA web site.
The practical test itself will last for approx. 40 minutes after which the examiner will let you know if you have been successful or not. The examiner will also provide you with feedback on the test result; they will give you the opportunity to have your instructor present should you so wish.
You will be required to carry out ONE driving manoeuvre.
The independent drive part of the test will last about 10 minutes, during which you will be asked to do ONE of the following:
Drive to a destination following traffic signs.
Drive following a series of verbal directions or Drive following a series of directions directed by A Satellite Navigation Device.
Drive using a combination of both of the above methods.
During the independent drive you must still drive correctly including using correct observations, using mirrors correctly, obeying speed limits, road markings and signs etc. but you will be driving completely independently, unaided and unprompted by the examiner.
In order to pass you must not exceed more than 15 Driving Faults during the entire test. If you commit at least 1 Serious or 1 Dangerous Fault you will fail.
There is more information about the Practical Test on the DSA web site, where you can also book online. You will need to supply an e-mail address when booking as all Confirmations of Appointments are now sent out by e-mail and no longer by letter.
Test Fees.
There is a standard price for Test Fees, a summary is provided below, further details can be found on the DSA web page.
- Theory Test Fee: £23.00.
- Practical Test Fee: £62.00 Weekdays.
Waiting Times for a Test.
You will no doubt be awarare of the current issue and difficulties in relation to booking your driving test. There are some changes in the way that driving tests can be booked and cancelled etc. Please make yourself aware of the current and proposed changes so we can discuss how this affects things when learning to drive.
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