The examiner will observe how you use the controls of the car, particularly the co-ordination of clutch and gas. You must drive at a speed suitable for the conditions, and use the appropriate gear for that speed. The examiner will expect you to make good progress, driving in a confident and competent manner, whilst being safe at all times.

Where possible, test routes will include roads where the national speed limit applies. Proper use of the mirror-signal-manoeuvre routine before changing speed or direction is closely observed, as is your use of blind spot checks where necessary.

 

You will be expected to act on all road markings, traffic signs, traffic signals, and signals given by other road users. The test takes around 40 minutes, and the present fee is £56.50. One serious fault, or sixteen minor faults will result in failure.

 

The Manoeuvres

 

The emergency stop is  now done on only one in three tests at random. You will also be asked to do two of the following three manoeuvres :-

Left reverse

Turn-in-the-road

Reverse park (This could be parallel parking or bay parking)

Correct observation is just as important as during general driving, and you will be expected to carry out the manoeuvres safely, and fairly accurately.     

 

Safety Checks

 

Questions on vehicle safety were added to the practical test from September 1, 2003. Before getting into the car you will be asked one “Show me”, and one “Tell me” question. Only one driving fault is allocated for this section of the test.