Theory and Practical Driving Tests
Provisional Driving Licence
You will need to apply for and have received your provisional driving licence before you can begin your driving lessons. You can do this by visiting the DVLA website or obtaining a D1 form from the post office. This can be done three months before your 17th birthday although the application will only take about three weeks, click here to apply for your driving licence on line.
Once you have received your provisional licence you can book your 1st lesson ready for when you are 17. You will have to wait until you are 17 before you can take your theory test.
The Theory Test
The theory test is in 2 parts, a multiple choice section with 50 questions, the pass mark is 43 or better, you have 57 mins to complete the test.
The hazard perception test is where you will be shown 14 video clips which show various hazards. The maximum score is 75 but you must score 44 to pass. You must pass both sections for you to pass the theory test. If you fail one part then you will fail the test and will have to take both parts again.
You may want to take your theory test before you start your lessons, or your instructor will be happy to give you help and advice on passing your theory test. click here to book your theory test or call 0870 01 01 372
To practice your theory and hazard perception click here.
The Practical Test
Your instructor will tell you when you are ready for your practical test and you will also know yourself when you feel ready to take your test. click here to book your practical test or call 0870 01 01 372
Once your test is booked you will receive a confirmation letter, you will need to keep this safe as you will need to take this with you when you go for your test.
Documentation needed for your test
- Confirmation letter
- Theory test certificate
- Paper part of your licence
- Photo card - provisional
If you have an old style paper licence you will also need to take your passport with you.
If any of the above documentation is missing then you risk your test not going ahead.
Once you are at the test centre you will meet your examiner who will check your documentation, You will then make your way to your car and be asked to do the eyesight test, this is where you will be asked to read a number plate from 22.5 meters. The examiner will also ask you to complete some safety checks on the vehicle.
While on the test you will be out on the road for about 40mins and will be asked to perform two manoeuvres and you may be asked to do an emergency stop.
During the test the examiner will be looking to see that you can drive competently and safely. You will need to show that you can handle situations on the road confidently when you are driving. You will be allowed to make up to 15 driver errors but if you make 16 or more then you will fail the test. If you make 1 serious or dangerous fault you will also fail the test.
When you get back to the test centre the examiner will tell you if you have been successful and will go through any faults you may have made. |
