The Practical Test
The practical test is your chance to prove to a DSA examiner that you have complete, confident control of the car and that you are safe on the roads. (Awareness of the rules of the road, and that you are able to make sound judgements about speed and intentions of other road users)
The practical test lasts about 40 minutes and consists of an eyesight check, some simple questions to check that you have knowledge of some basic maintenance tasks for the vehicle, and driving round a set route. This will test your ability on a variety of road types and in varying traffic conditions.
You will be required to perform at least 2 manouevres and possibly an emergency stop.
You can take the test in any car as long as it is legal and roadworthy and is not on the DSA list of excluded vehicles, but most learners take it in their instuctor's car as that is what they are most familiar with.
On The Day
Normally book a lesson about an hour before the test time to warm up and arrive in plenty of time (10 minutes early). Take your douments in to the office, (both parts of your licence and your theory pass certificate)The examiner wil meet you, introduce himself and explain everything that he would like you to do. He will also ask if you would like your instructor to accompany you on the test or to be present at the end for the de-brief.
As long as you make fewer than 16 minor faults and have not committed a serious fault you will pass and will be entitled to drive solo immediately, even on motorways.
From November 2010 for about 10 minutes you will be expected to follow direction signs to a particular location but this will be carefully explained and you may be shown a plan of the route. Don't worry if you go the wrong way- you cannot be failed for doing that!
Click Here to book your Practical Test