Driving Test and how to prepare

DRIVING TEST

Before you can apply to take your driving test you must pass the theory test.

How to prepare

There are lots of books/CDs/DVDs on the market including some produced by DSA. DSA set the theory test so it is a good idea to look out for books with the DSA symbol. You should read the Highway Code (it may be included in some packages). I would also recommend 'Know Your Traffic Signs'. Read the information thoroughly and try out the practice tests. Don't book your test until you regularly exceed the score you need to pass.

You can take your theory and practical tests as many times as you need but they are quite expensive so you don't want to be putting yourself through it too often.

The theory test

The theory test can be taken as soon as you feel ready (after your 17th birthday). Once you have passed, you have 2 years to take and pass your driving test. If you do not manage this within the 2 years you will have to take the theory test again. It is worth waiting a little to get some experience 'on the road' - this will help with the Hazard Perception part of the test.

The theory test has 2 parts:-

1) There is a multiple choice section where you are asked a question and several answers appear on the computer screen. You have to touch the screen to register your answer. There are currently 50 questions and you must score at least 43 correct answers to pass this section. If you are not sure of an answer you can come back to it later. You have plenty of time, so read the questions carefully.

2) The hazard perception test. This follows straight after the multiple choice test. You will see 14 video clips, shown from the driver's viewpoint. The clips show potential hazards for you to identify (1 clip has 2 potential hazards) and you click with the mouse to show you have seen the hazard. The sooner you spot a hazard the more points you score - but don't just keep clicking randomly, the system will award you zero points for that clip if you do.

75 marks are available and you need to score at least 44 points to pass.

You must pass both parts of the test on a single sitting. Should you fail one or both parts then you will have to come back and take both parts again.

You can book the test by post, phone, or online.

Once you have passed your theory test you can discuss with your instructor when you are ready to book the practical test. Be guided by your instructor. You will be eager to be independent but you are likely to fail if you are under prepared - and the tests are not cheap!!

The practical test

Your instructor has said that you are ready to book. (Don't worry if you feel you are not ready, there is usually a waiting list at your chosen test centre and your instructor will have taken this into account). You may have to wait several weeks for a suitable date. Waiting times depend on lots of different factors.

You can book the practical test in the same way that you booked the theory test but remember to ask your instructor for their availability, otherwise you may have to change your booking. Quote your driving instructor number to avoid the chance of double booking. Don't book your test until your instructor says you are ready - go in underprepared and you are more likely to fail. Once you have booked the test, don't forget to let your instructor know so they can put it in their diary!

On the day of your test you will need to book and pay for at least a 2 hour lesson (depending on how far from the test centre you live) with your instructor. The first hour includes picking you up, getting you to the test centre and, hopefully, settling those butterflies in your stomach. It also allows time to do any last minute preparation e.g. going over a manoeuvre where you don't feel totally confident. You have the use of your instructor's car for the test and afterwards your instructor will drive you back home or wherever you want to be dropped (within reason!).

The appointment letter tells you that you need to bring certain things with you on the test day and if you do not have all the items needed the examiner may cancel your test (and you will probably be charged for the test).

You need :-

1) Both parts of your licence i.e. the photocard AND the paper part. If your licence is the old style paper version you will need to bring this, plus some photographic proof of your identity. The acceptable proofs are listed on your letter.

2) The theory pass certificate.

3) Your appointment letter.

4) A car! If you use your own car it must be insured for the purpose of the test and must display 'L' plates front and back. There must also be an internal mirror for the examiner's use (they need to be able to see the traffic behind you). The mirror on the passenger visor is not acceptable. All the lights, indicators etc must be working properly so check them in good time and replace any faulty bulbs.

If you want your instructor to come with you to the test centre rather than another adult accompanying you on the day, the charge will still be for 2 hours.

What happens on the test?

The examiner will call your name and will then check your documents so make sure you have them ready. You will be asked to read and sign the declaration which says you are a resident of this country and that the car you are using is insured for the purpose of the test. (If you are using your instructor's car it will be insured, but if you are using another car MAKE SURE before you use the car for your test).

If you have your mobile phone with you please remember to switch it to silent or switch it off - you do not want it distracting you.

The examiner will ask if you want your 'accompanying driver' (this is normally your instructor, but is the person who came with you to the test centre if you are using your own car) to come with you on test. This is your choice. If your instructor comes with you they can see exactly where it went wrong, should that happen, which can be useful in helping you prepare to take the test again. Some pupils feel they would be extra nervous if their instructor was in the car as well. A.V.G makes no charge for accompanying you (although some instructors do!)

The examiner will take you outside and check your eyesight - if you fail this part, the test will stop and you will fail, so make sure your eyesight is up to scratch. It might be a good idea to get your eyes tested about a month before the test to allow time to get glasses or contact lenses if you need them.

Next, the examiner will ask you 2 'show-me-tell-me' questions. Don't worry, these are mostly common sense and your instructor will have gone over the questions with you.

Then the driving begins. The examiner will offer to explain what will happen and it is a good idea to say 'yes'. The driving test examines your ability to drive on a variety of different roads and also to do a manoeuvre involving reversing. You may also be asked to do a 'controlled stop'. There is a section called 'independent driving'. It is designed to see how you drive when no-one is giving you little hints or reminders. The examiner will ask you to follow a series of directions or roadsigns. It is not difficult and you will have been prepared for it.

Don't try to 'impress' the examiner. Try to drive in the way you have been taught. The examiner would like to pass you and you just have to show that you drive safely and are in control. The examiner knows that you are nervous and will take this into account when assessing you.

The driving test will last around 40 minutes and in this time you must make no more than 15 minor errors. Of course, if you have a serious or dangerous fault the examiner will not pass you. In rare cases, an examiner terminates the test if s/he feels that you are a dangerous driver and that they are at risk. They will get out of the car and walk back to the test centre. You MUST NOT drive the car anywhere. Contact your instructor and ask them to come to get you. If you are unhappy with how the test is proceeding you can terminate it but the examiner may leave you where you are!!

What are your chances of passing?

Very good, if you have prepared properly and have waited until your instructor says you are ready. Make sure you are still familiar with the 'Highway Code' - this is not something to forget once you have passed the theory test.

People tend to fail if they let their nerves get the better of them, so try to stay calm and focused. If you realise you have made a mistake try to ignore it and carry on - it may not have been as bad as you think. You are probably your own worst critic.

If you should fail - well, there's always next time. The examiner will offer to explain what went wrong - do take advantage of this. It will help you be more aware next time. The examiner will ask if you would like your instructor to listen to the 'debrief' ( if you feel comfortable with this). This is a good idea. You will probably be too upset to take in what the examiner says. Don't get angry with the examiner - they are just doing their job. And think - who is more likely to be right - an examiner with years of experience, or you?

If you pass - CONGRATULATIONS!

But your learning doesn't stop here. A.V.G can offer you motorway lessons and the Pass Plus course. The latter is designed to help newly qualified drivers become more confident and it may significantly reduce your insurance costs. In some cases the course practically pays for itself. Ask your instructor for details. And if you can't afford a car for some time and feel nervous when starting out on your own you can always do a refresher course.

But whatever you do DRIVE SAFELY!