Driving Instruction the Practical Test

Your driving test will start with an eyesight check. Your driving examiner will ask you to read a number plate on a stationary vehicle from 20.5 meters. 20 meters if the new style number plate is used.  If you fail to read the number plate then the test will be cancelled.

You will then be asked two vehicle safety questions. One “show me” and one “tell me”. If you fail to answer one or both incorrectly, one minor fault will be recorded on the DL25 marking sheet.

Your driving test will normally last about thirty five to forty minutes. You will take in all different types of roads and speed limits. You will be asked to complete one reversing exercise.  The reversing exercise will be chosen from

• reversing round a corner

• turning in the road

• reverse parking

• bay parking (depending on test centre)

From October 2010 the practical test will include a section of independent driving. During the test the candidate will have to drive by either following a series of signs or following a series of diagrams for approximately 10 minutes.

You may be asked to perform the Emergency stop. This manoeuvre is conducted once every three tests.

You can commit up to 15 minor faults and still pass your test. (16 will result in a fail) However, if you commit one serious or dangerous fault you will fail the test. If your examiner considers you a danger to other road users then the test will be stopped and the examiner will walk back to the test centre.

You are allowed to take someone with you on test; this person must be over 16 years of age and will normally sit behind the driver. Road From L’s driving instructors will gladly sit in on test if you feel it may benefit you. You must ask the examiner at the test centre if you want someone sitting in the back with you.  

After the test is finished the examiner will tell you whether you have passed or failed. If you have passed the examiner will send your license away for you. (Licenses issued after 01/03/04).  If you have failed, the examiner will ask if you want a “debrief” on the reasons why. The examiner will ask you if you want your instructor present. All Road From L’s instructors always make themselves available at the end of the test. This is in the best interests of the pupil. Most pupils will be confused with what the examiner is saying as they often don’t listen properly.

Road From L’s driving school recognise the importance of mock tests.  Never had a mock test with your instructor, then call us free on 08003287099. We will gladly arrange a mock test for you in your chosen area. You can use your instructor’s car or your own car if preferred. Your driving instructor or a member of the family is most welcome to sit in on the mock test. At the end of the test a full debrief will be given whether you pass or fail with a copy of the dl25 marking sheet.

Road From L's driving school will arrange all practical tests on behalf of the pupil free of charge.

On a practical driving test, faults are categorize as follows

Minor Fault

Any deviation from a perfect classic drive that isn’t potentially or actually dangerous

Serious Fault

Any deviation from a perfect classic drive that could cause danger or inconvenience to other road users.

Dangerous Fault

Any deviation from a perfect classic drive that does actually cause danger or inconvenience to other road users.