The Practical Driving Test

The practical driving test is straightforward and has been designed to see if you:

• can drive safely in different road and traffic conditions
• know The Highway Code and can demonstrate this through your driving
  driving ability

The driving part of your test will last about 40 minutes during which you will be examined on your general driving and ability to reverse your vehicle safely. One exercise will be chosen from:

• reversing around a corner
• turning in the road
• reverse parking

You may also be asked to carry out an emergency stop exercise.

Throughout the test you should drive in the way your instructor has taught you. If you make a mistake, don't worry about it as it might be a less serious driving fault and may not affect your result. However, if at any time your examiner considers your driving to be a danger to other road users your test will be stopped.

Your practical driving test will include approximately 10 minutes of independent driving. During your test you’ll have to drive independently by either following:

• traffic signs
• a series of directions
• a combination of both

To help you understand where you are going when following verbal directions, the examiner will show you a diagram. It doesn't matter if you don't remember every direction, or go the wrong way - that can happen to the most experienced drivers.

Independent driving is not a test of your orientation and navigation skills. Driving independently means making your own decisions - this includes deciding when it’s safe and appropriate to ask for confirmation about where you’re going.

Please note I prefer to sit in the back of the car during the test but at the end of the day that decision is there's of course.