Frequently Asked Questions

Before taking your practical driving test, you must have passed the driving theory test. On the day of the test, you need to:

• Present your provisional driving licence.
• Sign your name on the examiner’s iPad.
• Demonstrate that you can read a car number plate from 20 meters away.

You will also be asked if you want your instructor to accompany you during the test or be present for the debrief.

▶ Watch: Driving test 2024: Official DVSA guide

"Tell Me" Question: At the start of the test, you’ll be asked a question like, “Explain how you would check that your tyres have sufficient tread depth and are in a safe condition.”

"Show Me" Question: While driving, the examiner will ask you to demonstrate something, such as, “When it’s safe, show me how to wash and clean the rear windscreen.”

▶ Show Me Questions Video
▶ Tell Me Questions Video

During the 40 to 45-minute test, the examiner will assess your ability to maintain a consistently safe standard of driving. Follow the examiner's directions and handle each situation as it occurs. Concentrate on the task at hand and avoid dwelling on past mistakes to keep your focus sharp.

• Angled Start: Pulling out at an angle from behind a parked car.
• Normal Stop: Making a standard stop.
• Hill Start: Demonstrating a safe start on a hill.
• Emergency Stop: Performed in 1 out of 4 tests.
• Reverse Exercises: The examiner will ask you to complete one of the following:
  • Parallel park at the side of the road.
  • Park in a bay by either driving in and reversing out, or reversing in and driving out.
  • Pull up on the right, reverse for about two car lengths, and then rejoin the traffic.

You will drive independently for approximately 20 minutes, following either road signs or directions from a Sat Nav. This part of the test evaluates your ability to make safe driving decisions on your own. You can ask the examiner to repeat directions if needed, and don’t worry about taking a wrong turn; the examiner will assist you in getting back on track.

After passing your theory test and when your instructor believes you’re ready, check the test fee and book your practical test. Drive as you were taught during your lessons, and you’ll be well-prepared for success.

Check Test Fees | Book Your Test

The purpose of the driving theory test is to assess your understanding of road rules. You must pass this test before you can take the practical driving exam. The theory test consists of two sections: multiple-choice questions and a hazard perception test.

In England, Wales, and Scotland, the test is administered by the DVSA. Anyone holding a provisional licence must pass the theory test before scheduling a practical driving test.

Yes, if you’re a learner driver, you must pass the driving theory test before taking your practical driving test. After passing the theory test, keep in mind that if you don’t pass the practical test within two years, you will need to retake the theory test.

You can begin driving lessons before passing the theory test, as it's not required at this stage. However, you will need a provisional driving licence.

While it’s possible to take the driving theory test before starting lessons, most people find it beneficial to learn the rules of the road through actual driving experience. It’s a good idea to book your theory test as early as possible.

Yes, you can. The main requirement for taking driving lessons is having a provisional licence, whether you’re taking lessons from a professional instructor or learning with a friend or family member.

Once you have your provisional licence, you can schedule your driving theory test. It’s advisable to book your test as early as possible to avoid potential delays.

You can take the driving theory test once you turn 17. However, if you receive the higher rate of the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance, you can take the test at 16.

To prepare effectively for your driving theory test, studying with dedicated guides or taking online practice tests is highly recommended. It’s also important to review road signs thoroughly.

View Highway Code Traffic Signs

You can use the DVSA’s free practice theory test. This resource includes mock tests for cars and other vehicles, along with three hazard perception clips. Keep in mind that while these practice questions and clips may not appear on the actual test, they provide a good sense of what to expect.

Start Free Practice Test (Gov.uk)

You can also gain valuable practice by downloading The AA Theory Test app. It offers extensive learning materials, all the essential information from The Highway Code, and sample hazard perception videos.

Here are some additional resources to help you pass:

• 2Pass Mock Theory Test
• Test-Questions.com
• TheoryTestFree.co.uk
• Gov.uk