Test Preparation Guide

Preparing for the UK Driving Practical Test requires a mix of knowledge, skills, and confidence. This guide outlines key areas to focus on, ensuring you're fully prepared to pass your test.

1. Pre-Test Essentials

  1. Documents: You must bring your physical provisional driving licence to the test.
    • Digital copies, photos, or screenshots are not accepted.
    • Without the physical licence, the examiner will not allow you to take the test, and the test fee will still be lost.
  2. Vehicle Check: If you are using your own car, make sure it meets all DVSA requirements (valid MOT, insurance, and is fully roadworthy).
  3. Eyesight Test: Before the driving part begins, you must read a number plate from 20 metres. Failing the eyesight test results in an immediate test failure.

2. Key Driving Skills to Master

  1. General Driving Skills
    • Move Off: Smoothly and safely from different road positions.
    • Positioning: Stay in the correct lane and maintain road discipline.
    • Use of Mirrors & Signalling: Check mirrors frequently and signal clearly.
    • Speed Control & Awareness: Adjust speed according to road conditions and speed limits.
  2. Manoeuvres (Must be Performed Safely & Accurately)
  3. Junctions, Turns & Road Awareness
    • Turning Right & Left: Correct approach, mirror checks, and speed control.
    • Observation & Undue Hesitation: Make decisions confidently but safely.
    • Traffic Signs, Road Markings & Pedestrian Crossings: Follow rules and anticipate other road users’ actions.

3. Key Test Elements

  1. "Show Me / Tell Me" Questions
  2. Vehicle Control
    • Steering: Smooth and controlled steering to maintain stability.
    • Clutch Control & Gears: Avoid stalling; use appropriate gears for speed and conditions.
    • Eco-Driving: Efficient use of acceleration, braking, and planning to minimize fuel consumption.

4. Test Outcome & Common Mistakes

  1. Faults:
    1. Minor faults: Allowed up to 15, but repeated errors can lead to failure.
    2. Serious/Dangerous faults: Just one results in an instant fail.
  2. Common Mistakes to Avoid:
    • Not checking mirrors before changing lanes or turning.
    • Failing to observe properly at junctions.
    • Incorrect positioning on the road or in lanes.
    • Hesitating too much and causing delays.