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The practical test is an on the road assessment of your driving. The examiner will sit in the passenger seat and watch you drive for about 45 minutes. Practical tests are different to lessons for several reasons. Firstly, the examiner is quiet on your test to allow you to concentrate. Secondly, as you drive along the examiner puts down marks on a report sheet, which can be disconcerting. To help concentration and nerves, look for hazards and problems on the road ahead and then remember how you've been taught to deal with them. If you think you've made a mistake don't allow yourself to be distracted and lose concentration, keep focused on what's happening on the road ahead.
The best way to check that you are ready for your practical test is to have a trial run. When your driving is at test standard, we will do a few mock tests. I will make the mock tests replicate as closely as possible the real test. It will allow us to see how you are likely to perform on the real test and we can then plan how to improve any areas of weakness. Mock tests are a good way to help you cope with driving test nerves, but many driving instructors don't do them.
You must pass your theory test first, before you can book a practical test.
Click here to book a practical test
Below are some videos that will help you to learn more about the practical test.
What happens on the test?
Who can come with you on the test?
Show me, tell me (engine)
Show me, tell me (outside the car)
Show me, tell me (inside the car)