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PRACTICAL DRIVING TEST

Everything you need to know about test day.

Your complete guide to the DVSA practical driving test — from what to expect to understanding faults and booking your test.

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What is the practical driving test?

The DVSA practical driving test is the second stage of the UK driving licence process, taken after you have passed your theory test. It lasts around 40 minutes and takes place on real roads with a DVSA-approved examiner in the passenger seat.

Before booking your practical test, your RED instructor will ensure you are consistently reaching the required standard on all test manoeuvres and independent driving sections. Booking too early is a costly mistake — if you fail, you must wait a minimum of 10 working days before retesting and pay the full fee again.

What happens on your driving test?

1

Eyesight check

Before you get in the car, the examiner will ask you to read a number plate at a distance of 20 metres (with glasses or contact lenses if you normally wear them).

2

Show me, tell me questions

The examiner will ask one 'tell me' question before you start driving, and one 'show me' question while driving. These relate to the safety and condition of the vehicle.

3

General driving (approximately 20 minutes)

You will drive on a variety of roads including, where possible, one dual carriageway section. The examiner observes your road positioning, hazard awareness, signals, and compliance with traffic regulations.

4

Independent driving (approximately 20 minutes)

You will drive independently by following directions from a sat-nav (provided by the examiner) or by following traffic signs. About one in five tests will include a reversing manoeuvre instead of sat-nav directions.

5

Reversing manoeuvre

You will be asked to carry out one of three manoeuvres: parallel parking at the side of the road, parking in a bay (driving in and reversing out, or reversing in and driving out), or pulling up on the right and reversing.

Understanding driving test faults

The examiner records three types of faults during your test. Understanding each type helps you focus your practice on what matters most.

Minor fault

A less serious error. You can accumulate up to 15 minor faults and still pass. However, if the same minor fault is made repeatedly, it can be upgraded to a serious fault.

Serious fault

A potentially dangerous error. Just one serious fault means you fail. Examples include not checking mirrors before changing direction or pulling out at a junction without looking properly.

Dangerous fault

A fault where the examiner, a passenger or another road user was put in danger. Just one dangerous fault means you fail — and the examiner may have to intervene by using the dual controls.

Test fees and booking

The current DVSA test fee is £62 on weekday mornings and afternoons, and £75 for evenings, weekends and bank holidays. You can book your test directly on the GOV.UK website or ask your RED instructor to book on your behalf.

You should only book your practical test when your instructor is satisfied that you are consistently reaching the required standard.

After passing your practical test

When you pass, the examiner will take your provisional licence and issue a pass certificate on the spot. You can drive away immediately. Apply to the DVLA for your full photocard licence as soon as possible.

Practical Driving Test FAQs

What documents do I need to bring to my practical driving test?
You must bring your valid UK photocard provisional driving licence. Without acceptable photo ID, the test will not proceed and you will forfeit the fee.
Can my driving instructor accompany me on my test?
Yes. Your RED instructor is permitted to sit in the back of the car during your test as a silent observer. They cannot speak or intervene during the test.
What happens if I fail my driving test?
If you fail, the examiner will give you a DL25 form detailing all the faults recorded. You can rebook your test after a minimum of 10 working days.
How many times can I take the practical test?
There is no limit on the number of times you can take the practical driving test. However, each attempt requires a new booking and the full fee.
Can I use my own car for the test?
Yes, subject to conditions. The vehicle must be roadworthy, insured for the test, have a valid MOT (if applicable), and be fitted with an additional working rear-view mirror for the examiner.
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