Given the long wait times at testing centres, it’s best to pass your theory test as soon as possible and book your practical driving test several months in advance. Since all driving centres have extended wait times for test slots, booking early will give you the flexibility to choose the best time for your test. If you need an urgent test, the DVSA's cancellation team can help you secure earlier slots as they become available. It’s also a good idea to schedule your practical test close to the end of your driving lessons to ensure that all the knowledge and skills you've gained are still fresh in your mind.
Upon arriving at the driving test centre, before entering the car for your test, you’ll need to show the examiner your provisional driving licence. If you don’t have it, your test will be cancelled, and you’ll have to rebook without a refund for the cancelled test. After confirming your provisional licence, the examiner will ask you to read the number plate of a car from a distance of 20.5 metres (67 feet). If you wear glasses for reading, you must wear them throughout the test. Failing to read the number plate will result in your test being cancelled, and you will lose the test fee. Once you’ve passed the number plate check, you’ll escort the examiner to your car (which you need to provide) and may be asked some vehicle safety questions before or during the test. The examiner will explain what to expect during the test, including driving on various types of roads, such as town roads, single and double carriageways, roundabouts, and performing specific driving manoeuvres. After the test, the examiner will provide immediate feedback in the car, informing you whether you’ve passed or failed. If you’re unclear about the feedback, ask the examiner to clarify their decision with you and your instructor, which will help guide your further training and future attempts at the practical test.
The practical driving test typically lasts between 47 to 55 minutes, depending on the route, time of day, and traffic conditions. This time includes paperwork such as signing the insurance declaration, reading the car number plate, and the final debrief. Regardless of whether you pass or fail, a debrief will be provided at the end of the test. The cost of the practical driving test is £62, and if you opt for an extended test, which lasts up to 1 hour and 50 minutes, the fee will be double that of the standard test.
On the day of your practical driving test, you must bring your provisional driving licence, glasses (if you usually wear them), and the certificate confirming you passed your theory and hazard perception tests. Failure to bring any of these items will result in your test being cancelled without a refund. If you’re using your own car for the test, you’ll need to provide proof that it is insured for the test. Additionally, if your examiner determines your car is unsuitable for the test, it will be cancelled without a refund. Your examiner will also need an internal mirror for the test, so if you're using your own car, make sure to inform the testing centre whether you'll be using your own car or your instructor’s car when you register for the test.