As a DVSA-qualified driving instructor, I frequently encounter one question: “What do you do in a driving test?”
It’s a significant question because the key to acing the test lies in your driving skills and knowing what to expect.
This comprehensive guide will lead you through every step, from the week before your test to the day itself, and even how to navigate cancellations.
If you need help with your practical and stumbled on this page by mistake, checkout my guide for preparing for the UK theory test.
Every day of the week leading up to your driving test is an opportunity to improve your chances of passing.
Here’s how to make the most of it:
Begin your week by revisiting the Highway Code. Studying may not be as exciting as getting behind the wheel, but it’s essential. Ensure you’re thoroughly familiar with road signs, speed limits, and the general rules of the road.
Put your knowledge to use by getting in some practical driving time. Working on areas that might be challenging for you is especially beneficial, such as parallel parking, hill starts, or navigating roundabouts.
Taking mock tests can help you gauge your understanding of the rules and practical skills. These tests mirror the real exam, providing an idea of what to expect and identifying areas that require more practice.
By now, you should be comfortable handling the vehicle. Dedicate this day to driving around the area near the test centre. Different road types, traffic conditions, and routes will help you build adaptability.
It’s important to ensure your vehicle is ready for the test too. Check the lights, brakes, mirrors, seat height, and tyre pressure. Remember, a faulty vehicle can lead to a test cancellation.
Take a well-deserved break from driving and studying. Engage in relaxing activities, ensuring you’re mentally fresh and ready for your test.
A quick final revision can reinforce your knowledge and boost your confidence. Also, getting a good night’s sleep will ensure you’re well-rested and focused for the big day.
What do you do in a driving test when the day has finally arrived?
The test starts with an eyesight check, followed by ‘show me, tell me’ vehicle safety questions.
Then comes the driving test, which lasts about 40 minutes.
It includes general driving, one reversing manoeuvre, and approximately 20 minutes of independent driving, possibly including emergency stop and driving on dual carriageways.
Dealing with Driving Test Cancellations
At times, driving tests are cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances, leading to long waits for rescheduling and even the possibility of needing to retake the theory test.
While test cancellation can be disheartening, a tool can help alleviate some of the stress – the Driving Test Cancellations Now app.
As an instructor, I’ve seen countless students benefit from this efficient, user-friendly app.
The Driving Test Cancellations Now app is an invaluable tool that I often recommend to my students.
This brilliant app works tirelessly to search for cancellations across all test centres and even offers auto-booking, simplifying securing an earlier test slot.
You’ll receive in-app and email notifications about cancellations, and with just a tap, you can book your preferred slot.
The app allows you to manage all your preferred date and time preferences, widening the search across multiple test centres, which increases your chances of finding a suitable slot.
Moreover, this app informs you of all the test centres, dates, and times it’s searching for.
And if the app doesn’t find an earlier driving test for you, it offers a full refund. With unlimited usage until you pass, this app is a worthy investment.
So, what do you do in a driving test? It’s about the right preparation, knowing what to expect, and being equipped with tools like the Driving Test Cancellations Now app to handle hiccups.
I hope this guide has brought you closer to being ready for your driving test.
Remember, feeling nervous is normal, but adequate preparation can help you stay calm and perform your best.
Good luck with your practical test, and always remember to drive safe!
Regarding the practical driving test, learners can adopt numerous strategies to maximise their chances of passing, such as learning the UK driving test routes.
For instance, enlisting a local driving instructor can ensure you're well-acquainted with the local area.
Beyond lessons, practice sessions with friends and family can bolster your driving skills.
But have you considered understanding the UK driving test routes?
In this article, we'll guide you through the ins and outs of UK driving test routes—what they entail, where to find them, and their importance in securing a pass on your driving test.
LEARN YOUR LOCAL TEST ROUTES THE WAY I DO
In a driving test, examiners don't whimsically decide the route to take around the test centre.
Instead, they follow a specified path designed by the DVSA.
Each test centre will typically have at least a dozen potential UK driving test routes—the examiner is provided with a random one for each test.
These UK driving test routes commence from the test centre, gradually extending to diverse areas to incorporate various road types and traffic conditions.
Here are some elements you're likely to encounter on your test route:
Residential and city areas: This gauges your ability to navigate different traffic and speed conditions confidently and safely.
Difficult local road types: These could include intricate junctions, one-way systems, and multi-lane roundabouts.
Local dual carriageways: This tests your ability to adapt to high-speed roads.
While these UK driving test routes might slightly differ, they all aim to include the above components, testing a learner's readiness to drive unsupervised.
You'll follow the examiner's instructions for approximately 20 minutes during your actual driving test.
After this, you'll progress to the independent driving section, following the test route using directions from a sat nav.
(Unless you're in the 20% of drivers asked to follow traffic signs instead.)
To better understand the structure of the practical, please refer to our guide to what happens in the driving test.
Should you deviate from your test route, the examiner will provide verbal directions to bring you back on track.
Therefore, don't panic if your memory or test day nerves falter!
Let's not sugarcoat it—finding your official UK driving test routes is next to impossible.
Routes used to be accessible online until 2010, when the DVSA stopped publishing them.
This decision was aimed at aiding learner drivers.
Before this change, some instructors only trained their students on official routes, expecting them to memorise as much as possible.
This approach had detrimental impacts on learners.
Most of the driving test was spent recalling the next road on the route instead of focusing on road conditions.
Anxiety ensued if the examiner deviated from the memorised routes due to closures or unexpected congestion, causing delays in returning to the test centre.
A lack of exposure to any road types or features not included in their test centre's routes, such as multi-lane roundabouts, one-way systems, and other challenging junctions.
UK driving test routes do not mirror real-life driving conditions.
Sticking to them means limiting yourself to a specific range of road types and conditions within your local area.
Once you pass your test and venture further afield unsupervised, you may be overwhelmed when encountering an unfamiliar road type.
By discontinuing the publication of test routes, the DVSA has made the driving test more realistic.
This step encourages instructors to equip learners with the skills and confidence to drive safely and independently, regardless of location.
Despite this, a quick online search for UK driving test routes will yield numerous sites claiming to offer them for a fee.
Beware!
Most of these routes are either outdated or completely fabricated.
I can assist if you're still intrigued by UK driving test routes.
I provide essential test guides for all practical test centres we cover.
These guides offer sample UK driving test routes for download.
To avail of this, visit our practical test centres page and select your test centre.
However, remember that these routes are unofficial and should only be used as a rough guide.
As hard as it may be to accept, UK driving test routes aren't the secret to passing your test.
It wouldn't guarantee a pass even if you could access your local test centre's official routes.
If you're sceptical, let's delve into a few reasons for this.
Consider that you've memorised all test routes used at your local test centre.
Despite your preparedness, the examiner might unexpectedly ask you to turn onto a road not on your route due to roadworks or other unforeseen events.
Instantly, your confidence is shattered.
Road and traffic conditions are dynamic, often requiring examiners to improvise to ensure the driving test doesn't exceed the allotted time.
Thus, UK driving test routes might seem rigid on paper, but they're more flexible in real-life driving.
There's a lot to process during the driving test—you must heed your examiner's instructions, follow sat nav directions, and remain alert to your surroundings to spot potential hazards.
Adding test routes to this mix can lead to chaos.
If your entire focus is on remembering the next turn, can you spot hazards?
Probably not.
This lack of focus can lead to driving test faults and serious accidents!
The primary goal of learning to drive isn't merely to pass the test but to become a safe and confident driver capable of handling diverse road and traffic conditions.
If your lessons revolve solely around driving on test routes, you undermine your learning experience.
While familiarity with your local area is essential, it shouldn't limit you to the same roads.
Being comfortable while driving in unfamiliar areas is a crucial skill. If your driving skills are honed, the unfamiliarity of the roads shouldn't matter.
Focus on taking driving lessons with a local, DVSA-approved instructor instead of obsessing over UK driving test routes.
A competent instructor will guide you around the roads favoured by driving examiners—gained from accompanying learners on their tests—without restricting you to your local area.
They'll also help you test your skills on unfamiliar roads that won't appear on your practical, ensuring you're prepared for any situation post-test.
During your lessons, ensure that your instructor covers all the types of roads and junctions you might encounter during your driving test and after passing.
This includes quiet residential streets, busy high-speed roads, roundabouts, junctions, and crossroads.
Aim to be as well-rounded as possible with your driving skills.
Next, make sure to learn how to follow directions from a sat nav.
This is a key part of the independent driving section of the test and one that many learner drivers find tricky.
Take the time to practice with a sat nav during your lessons or even when practising with a family member or friend.
Also, take the time to familiarise yourself with the 'Show Me, Tell Me' questions.
These are questions that your examiner will ask you at the beginning and during your test about car safety and maintenance.
Knowing these questions well can give you a great head start in your driving test.
Lastly, always be prepared for any surprises.
Your examiner might take you on a route that's not usually taken, or there might be unexpected road works or traffic.
Always stay calm and use the skills you've learned during your lessons to handle the situation.
While knowing the UK driving test routes might seem like an advantage, the truth is, it's far more important to be a safe, confident, and versatile driver.
Driving isn't about memorising routes—it's about adapting to different road conditions and situations.
Rather than trying to memorise driving test routes, focus on improving your driving skills, learning how to handle different road types and conditions, and, most importantly, becoming a safe driver.
As we wrap up, let's revisit the critical message from the DVSA: the purpose of the driving test is to ensure you can drive safely in various road and traffic conditions, understand The Highway Code, and can demonstrate this through your driving skills.
Hence, your ultimate goal should be to become so proficient at driving that you can handle any route confidently and safely—not just the ones in your local area.
Here's wishing you the best of luck on your driving journey!
Drive safely.
Here's a step-by-step guide for how to apply for provisional driving licence.
If you are reading this, then you are learning how to apply for provisional driving licence. So, if you want to make the process easier you’re in the right place. Keep reading because by the end of this blog post you will know:
Before you can apply for a provisional licence, you need to ask yourself the following questions.
If you answered “yes,” keep reading.
My name is John and I’m a trusted driving instructor in Darlington. I’m sharing the stories of my real students. You’ll understand how they learned to apply for a proivisional driving licence and achieve the result they wanted.
I receive multiple enquiries that come through in my local area, and guess what? Everyone who has contacted me is now a licensed driver.
My students get access to my free driving test checklist walking them through the provisional licence application process.
I have written this blog post to accompany the free learner driver checklist. If you haven’t yet downloaded this, you can do so below. You can read this blog post and gain a lot of valuable information. But, the checklist offers step-by-step guidance of what you should do to get your licence faster.
By opting for the free learner driver checklist you will learn:
I highly recommend you claim your copy of the learner driver checklist. Now, let’s jump into how to apply for a provisional driving licence in the UK.
This is the first step to learning to drive. Without a provisional licence you cannot legally operate a vehicle on the road.
After applying for a provisional licence, it should take a few weeks to arrive in the post. Sometimes it will arrive sooner.
It’s hard to wait, but don’t begin driving without your provisional licence.
Ensure you are applying for a provisional licence using the correct website. Unfortunately many scammers will write articles about applying for a prvisional licence. Their intent is to rank a webpage on Google so when you arrive at their page they promise you a cheap and easy path to applying for a licence. But, usually they charge double or rtiple the cost of applying for a licence.
Instead of letting them aply for you, always use the .gov website. Never let someone apply for you because they will have access to your personal data and could overcharge you.
Your licence will cost £34 if you complete the application online.It will cost £43 to apply by post.
Click the link below to apply for your provisional licence on the official gov.uk website. Then keep reading because once you apply you are not yet ready to start learning.
Apply for your provisional licence today.
Now that you have your provisional licence, it is time to start learning the rules of the road. You may assume it is safe to hop in the car and start driving with a qualified driver. But in reality you need to take a few extra steps before you can drive legally and with peace of mind.
Before you get behind the wheel, you need to have learner driver car insurance. Without insurance, you will be driving illegally.
You could receive a fixed penalty of £300 and six penalty points on your licence if you are caught driving a vehicle that you are not insured to drive. If the case goes to court you could get an unlimited fine and be disqualified from driving.
Save yourself the hassle and drive legally.
Find cheap car insurance and save up to £348.
Once you’ve purchased insurance coverage using the above link, you can begin practising your driving skills. You should opt for one of the following types of insurance.
You don’t need to practise with a driving instructor. You can practice with anyone as long they are over 21 years old and have driven for three years or more. You can learn about all types of car insurance in the UK if you need more clarification on which type of cover is best for you.
Every driving instructor uses a syllabus to teach a learner how to drive a car. I want you to succeed and feel at ease on the day of your exam.
Did you know the DVSA theory test pass rate for 2019/2020 was 47.1%? Less than half of the people who took the test passed it…
But…
I don’t want you to experience that. So, if you want to be one of the 5/10 people who will actually pass, you must study the official theory test materials from the DVSA.
This theory test kit has helped dozens of my students pass and it can help you too.
The official theory kit comes with flashcards for road signs, so you don’t feel confused on test day. Or, if you’re looking to help someone pass their exam, the official theory test kit is the perfect gift.
Grab your test kit to excel at the theory test, and avoid looking at the test computer with your mouth wide open, guessing and hoping your answer is right.
Buy the official DVSA Theory Kit
And for maximal results, get the app to accompany your study materials. The app will give you specific videos to follow regarding the hazard perception tests. These two study materials accompany each other. The former emphasises test questiosn menwhile the app focusses on hazard perception.
Get the hazard perception APP.
Until now we have only talked about getting ready for the theory test as you apply for an obtain a provisional driving licence. OU need to learn how to drive after this. So, here is a short a list of manoeuvres from my learning-to-drive syllabus. If you would like the full list, please sign up for the learner driver checklist.
If you’re learning with friends and family, knowing these manoeuvres will ensure you’re prepared to pass your driving practical the first time you take it.
The Cockpit Drill is the set of preliminary checks to ensure that your vehicle controls and ancillaries are functioning correctly and put on your seatbelt. If you fail to do the cockpit drill on test day, you’ll fail before taking off and may not even be allowed to drive. The drill takes a while to become familiar to you but once practised, it can be completed mentally in a matter of seconds.
There are five basic parts to the cockpit drill: doors, seat, steering, seatbelt and mirrors.
Use this acronym to remember what to check before taking off.
DSSSM – Don’t Start Steering, Stay Mindful.
One of the hardest things about driving is stopping and starting safely, so once you have mastered this you will be well on your way to passing your test.
The first thing you need to do is get the car ready to move, and this is done by reaching the biting point. To do this, follow these simple steps:
To learn all the manoeuvres you could see on your driving test so you can practice appropriately, download the free learner driver checklist.
We have covered everything you need to know when applying for a provisional licence in the UK. If you follow this guide you will avoid scams and falling prey to people who want to take your money. Also, you will learn valuable information that will prepare you for obtaining a full licence once your provisional arrives.
Did you like the article and find it helpful? If so, please consider sharing it by using the buttons at the left or bottom of your screen so we can help more people.
Passing the driving test is a significant milestone in a person’s life.
It symbolises independence and freedom and demonstrates their hard work, dedication, and responsibility.
At John Nicholson Driving School, we believe in celebrating this momentous occasion.
That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to the best passed driving test gifts for newly-licensed drivers.
So, whether you’re a:
You’re sure to find the perfect present to make the new driver in your life feel special.
If your child has recently passed their driving test, it’s an exciting milestone worth celebrating.
As a parent, you may want to give them a gift that’s both practical and meaningful.
One option is to pay for their first month of car insurance or their insurance plan deposit.
While it may not seem like the most exciting gift, car insurance is a necessary expense that can be challenging for new drivers to afford.
Paying for their insurance can provide peace of mind and financial support during this transition.
If you’re unsure of the insurance your learner driver needs learn about car insurance in the UK.
Make their life easy and start an insurance plan.
Personalised gifts hold a special place in our hearts.
They demonstrate you’ve put thought and effort into selecting the ideal present.
Personalised passed driving test gifts are no exception.
These gifts:
In this section, we’ve picked the top 3 personalised gifts to leave a lasting impression.
Whether it’s a:
These gifts combine practicality with a heartfelt message that truly celebrates their success.
A personalised keychain adds style to the new driver’s set of keys and constantly reminds them of their achievement.
This high-quality keychain offers various personalisation options, allowing you to add the driver’s name and test pass date, making it a truly thoughtful gift.
Say you care with a personalised keychain.
Celebrate the big day with a custom mug that features the new driver’s name and the date they passed their test.
This personalised mug will remind them of their accomplishment every time they take a sip, perfect for a morning coffee or a relaxing evening tea.
Make them smile with a personalised mug!
Help the new driver keep their car smelling fresh and clean with a personalised car air freshener kit.
Choose from various scents and add a custom message or design to create a practical and unique gift they’ll appreciate every day.
The kit also includes revision flashcards that can help anxious drivers feel more confident.
And in the event of a scratch it includes supercut and microfibre cloths to remove the noticeable marks.
Keep their car fresh and neat!
When selecting a gift for a new driver, practicality is key.
Practical gifts show your thoughtfulness and provide the recipient with useful items that will enhance their driving experience.
This section focuses on the top 3 practicals passed driving test gifts that every new driver will appreciate.
From an emergency car kit to a car phone holder and a car cleaning kit, these gifts are functional and help ensure the new driver’s safety and convenience on the road.
These gifts will make their life easier as they navigate the driving world.
An emergency car kit is essential for every driver. This comprehensive kit includes jumper cables, a flashlight, a first aid kit, and other necessities to handle roadside emergencies.
Give the gift of preparedness and peace of mind with this practical present.
Give the gift of peace of mind.
Help them keep their eyes on the road.
As a new driver, safety is always a top priority. One of the most important aspects of vehicle safety is ensuring that your tyres have adequate tread depth.
The Preciva Digital Tyre Tread Depth Gauge is the perfect passed driving test gift to help your loved one stay safe on the road.
This digital gauge is easy to use and provides accurate readings of tyre tread depth in both metric and imperial units. With a measuring range of 0-25mm.
It can detect even small amounts of wear on your tyres. The LCD screen is easy to read and displays measurements in large, clear digits.
The compact size of the Preciva Digital Tyre Tread Depth Gauge makes it easy to store in a glove compartment or tool kit.
Regularly checking tyre tread depth can help prevent accidents and ensure that their car handles properly in wet or slippery conditions.
Not only is this passed driving test gift practical and useful, it also shows that you care about your loved one’s safety on the road.
The Preciva Digital Tyre Tread Depth Gauge is a thoughtful and memorable celebration of their success.
Give them a gift that will keep them safe for years to come.
Order one today and give the gift of peace of mind.
Help them develop safe habits!
Celebrating a driving test success should be enjoyable and light-hearted. Fun gifts are an excellent way to bring laughter and joy to the occasion.
We’ve compiled a list of the top 3 fun passed-driving test gifts perfect for those who appreciate a touch of humour.
These gifts, such as a novelty driving test certificate, a new driver survival kit, and a “New Driver” car decal, celebrate the new driver’s achievement.
So, let’s get ready to put a smile on their face with these entertaining and amusing gift ideas.
If you’re looking for a unique and practical passed-driving test gift for your new driver, the Traffic Light Keyring is a perfect choice.
This fun and functional keyring features a miniature traffic light design with red, amber, and green LED lights that mimic the real thing.
Not only is this keyring a stylish and eye-catching accessory, it also serves as a handy reminder for your new driver to follow the rules of the road.
The red light can be a reminder to stop at junctions and pedestrian crossings, while the green light can signify that it’s safe to proceed.
The Traffic Light Keyring is made from high-quality materials, so it’s durable and built to last.
The compact size makes it easy to carry in a pocket or attach to a keychain, so your new driver will always have a handy reminder of the rules of the road close at hand.
This passed driving test gift is a thoughtful and practical way to congratulate your new driver on their achievement.
Show your support as they embark on a new chapter of their life as a licensed driver.
Order one today and give the gift of safety and style.
If you’re looking for a fun and practical gift for your new driver, the TomTom Start 52 GPS Navigator is an excellent choice.
This GPS device features a bright, resistive touchscreen display that makes it easy to navigate and find your way on the road.
With lifetime map updates, your new driver can always be sure they have the most up-to-date information and directions to their destination.
The device also features advanced lane guidance, which provides clear and concise directions for complex intersections and highway junctions.
The TomTom Start 52 GPS Navigator is also incredibly easy to use.
It has an intuitive interface that lets your new driver quickly and effortlessly enter their destination and get directions.
The device can also be personalised with a range of fun and colourful navigation voices, making driving a more enjoyable and entertaining experience.
As a new driver, safety on the road is a top priority.
The MINIEYE C2L Dash Cam is the perfect passed-driving test gift.
It will help your new driver stay safe while also providing a fun and entertaining way to review their driving experiences.
This compact and stylish camera captures high-quality video footage of everything that happens on the road.
It provides a valuable record of any incidents or accidents.
With a wide-angle lens and high-resolution video, your new driver can relive their road trips and adventures and even share them with friends and family.
But the MINIEYE C2L Dash Cam isn’t just a fun accessory – it’s also an important safety feature.
In case of an accident, the footage captured by the camera can provide valuable evidence to help resolve insurance claims or legal disputes.
And with a parking monitor mode that can detect any impacts or movements while the car is parked, your new driver can have peace of mind knowing their car is always being watched over.
Gift a fun way to review driving!
For those who want to think outside the box and present the new driver with something truly memorable, unique gifts are the way to go.
These gifts showcase your creativity and thoughtfulness, ensuring your present stands out.
We explore the top 3 unique passed-driving test gifts that will impress.
The 360-Degree Adjustable Blind Spot Mirror is an excellent gift for new drivers. It eliminates blind spots and increases visibility while driving.
The mirror provides a wider view than traditional side mirrors, making it easier to navigate traffic safely.
The adjustable feature allows the driver to find the best viewing angle.
It’s easy to install and compatible with most vehicles.
The mirror provides added confidence and peace of mind while driving.
Order the 360-Degree Adjustable Blind Spot Mirror today and give the gift of safety on the road.
Apple AirTag is a perfect gift for new learner drivers. It keeps their belongings safe.
The AirTag can be attached to car keys, a bag or a wallet. It’s easy to set up and use. AirTag can be tracked through the Find My app.
It helps locate lost items quickly and find a car in a parking lot. This gift will give new drivers peace of mind.
The GoolRC Car Parking Sensor is a practical and unique gift for new drivers with older cars.
It provides an audible warning to help park and reverse safely. Most people overlook this feature, making it a valuable upgrade for any new driver.
The sensor is easy to install and compatible with most older cars. It features four ultrasonic sensors for accurate distance measurement.
The waterproof design makes it suitable for use in all weather conditions.
Order the GoolRC Car Parking Sensor today and give the gift of safety and convenience on the road.
The YRU Car Phone Mount features a military-grade suction cup made of environmentally friendly PU material.
Withstand temperatures ranging from -40 to 203 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately -40°C to 77°C)
This suction cup guarantees that extreme weather conditions won’t compromise its effectiveness.
Rest assured, the stickiness of the suction cup can hold up to 60 pounds, providing steadfast support for your phone.
The lever balance theory and triangular stability principle of the YRU Car Phone Mount ensure your phone remains securely in place.
The addition of a silicone pad as a fulcrum under the long arm minimises vibrations and eliminates abnormal noise.
Thick clamp arms with built-in silicone pads further reduce shaking and prevent your phone from falling, ensuring a stable environment for your device.
The YRU Car Phone Mount is designed to accommodate various smartphones.
With an extended arm length and wider claw width, it is compatible with phones ranging from 4″ to 7″ in size, even with thick cases like OtterBox or battery cases (with a thickness less than 0.7″).
Whether you drive a car, pickup truck, SUV, or taxi, this mount is universally compatible, and an adjustable bottom tray ensures easy access to your phone’s buttons.
A new driver’s focus should be on safety and minimising distractions on the road.
The YRU [Upgraded] Car Phone Mount provides the perfect solution, keeping a phone secure and within easy reach throughout a journey.
![YRU [Upgraded] Car Phone Mount](https://johnnicholsondrivingschool.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/71wMvVemdcL._AC_SL1500_-971x1024.jpg "71wMvVemdcL._AC_SL1500_")
Finding the perfect passed driving test gift can be challenging.
Still, with this comprehensive list of gifts which are:
You will surely find the ideal present to celebrate your accomplishment.
Show the new driver in your life how proud you are of their achievement with a thoughtful and memorable gift.
If you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends and family, and feel free to leave a comment with additional gift ideas.
Happy gift-giving!
And check out the links below for more tips and tricks.
