The Practical Test


This page contains some helpful information about the Practical Test.

Booking the Test

You can book your practical test by either:

  • Visiting the DSA website and clicking on "Online Booking"
  • By calling 0870 0101 372
  • I can also provide an application form to apply by post

Driving Test Centres

The majority of my tests are conducted at the Basingstoke Test Centre, but I also use Newbury and Reading.

The Test

The Practical test usually takes between 45-50 minutes but you will normally only be driving for around 35-40 minutes of this time. On arrival at the test centre you will meet your examiner and will be asked to produce both parts of your licence - don't forget these!

After introducing himself, the examiner will take you to read a numberplate (from approx. 20.5 metres distance) to check your eyesight. He will then ask you to answer two "Show me tell me" questions (click here for a list of these). You will then get in the car and the examiner will explain to you what will happen during the test.

During the test, you will be tested on your general driving skills as well as the ability to:

  • pull up in a safe place on the left
  • move off on a hill
  • move off from behind a parked car
  • do two maneuvers
  • do a controlled emergency stop (this only happens on a small &% of tests)
When you return to the test centre, the examiner will tell you how you did and give the appropriate forms, and the test will be over!

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