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Practical Driving Test

Driving Examiners

Were sure you will have heard lots of horror stories about Driving Examiners. Along with all the stories of why people don't pass. Driving Examiners are extremely experienced drivers who also sit regular updates of their driving and testing ability. Examiners have no reason to fail a person other than the candidates ability has not met the required standard. Stories of candidates failing their test to meet quota's, the day of the week and time of the day are myths. If you meet the required standard on the day you will pass your driving test. Don't listen to the horror stories people tell you, it will only make you more nervous.

The Waiting Room

When you meet your Examiner he or she will ask you to read and sign the insurance and residency declaration whilst they check your paperwork. You must have both parts of your driving licence and Theory Test Certificate available for inspection. Candidates with the old style paper licence must also provide photographic id in the form of a VALID passport. Should you fail to produce any of these items you will not be able to take your test and forfeit your test fee.

The Eyesight Check

Your Examiner will ask you to read a registration number of a random vehicle from a distance of at least 20.5 meters. Should you be unable to read the registration from the minimum required distance, your test will not continue, and fail recorded.

The Safety Questions

Following this you will be required to answer 2 questions on your vehicle and vehicle safety. You can view the possible combinations at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/car-show-me-tell-me-vehicle-safety-questions/car-show-me-tell-me-vehicle-safety-questions.

Additionally there will be two 'Show & Tell' questions: the first 'Tell' question occurs whilst stationary in the Test Centre and thr 'Show' question is asked during your test whilst on the move.  Examples of the 'Show & Tell' questions can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/car-show-me-tell-me-vehicle-safety-questions.

In The Car

Once in the car your examiner will ask you if you would like a pre brief of what the test will entail. We recommend you listen to this briefing carefully so you are fully aware of what is expected of you as a driver whilst on test. He or she will explain that your test will last for between 38 to 40 minutes and take in various road types and traffic conditions. Throughout the test you must follow the road ahead unless traffic signs direct you otherwise. If the examiner needs you to turn left or right they will do so in plenty of time. The examiner will also ask you to carry out two manouvres, which you will have been practicing with your instructor. This may be combination of any of the following manouvres: Reverse Parking Exercise (On The Road); Forward Bay Parking (Car Park); Reverse Bay Parking (Test Centre). You may also be asked to carry out an emergency stop. The emergency stop exercise does not count as a manouvre. If you are unsure of anything which is required don't be afraid to ask you examiner. They will be pleased to answer your questions.

The End of The Test

Once back at the test centre your examiner will ask you to park your vehicle safely and make yourself comfortable, whilst they complete the paperwork. Once the paperwork is complete your examiner will give you the result of your test. Hopefully this will be the desired result. In the event of you not being successful your examiner will ask you if you would like to know why? You may then request for your Instructor to be present during the debrief. Once again we would recommend this as it can be helpful in understanding what went wrong and why.