The Driving Test December 2017
The Driving Test consists of two parts; the Theory Test and a practical Driving Test.
Theory Test
Once you have received your Provisional Driving Licence, you can apply for a test by clicking here. The test is taken at any of a large number of Pearson Centres found in locations around the UK.
The test is computer based and consists of 50 multiple choice questions, requiring a detailed knowledge of all aspects of driving, including, but not limited to the Law, responsibility, safety and the Highway Code.
The pass mark is 43 out of 50 questions, 86%, so there is little margin for error. Candidates are allowed is 57 minutes to complete the test.
Once the multiple choice questions are completed, the system allows a three-minute break before starting the Hazard Perception Test programme. This part of the theory test consists of 14 video clips, which show a series developing hazards. Points are awarded for how quickly you realise and react to the developing hazards/danger. The pass mark is 44 out of a possible 75.
Practical Test from December 2017
In order to book a practical test, you must hold a valid provisional driving licence, and have a theory test pass number. The test can be taken Mon-Fri at a cost of £62 and £72 on a Saturday at some test centres.
The DVSA currently recommends that most learners take at least 45 hours of professional tuition and at least 20 hours private practice with friends and family. However this recommendation was based on the old test as it was before Dec 2017. As there is no doubt that the new test will be more of a challenge ( or why introduce it); more training hours will likely be necessary for some.
Your practical Driving Test will start with an eyesight check. Fail this and it’s over before you start!
Before going out on the road, the examiner will ask one “tell me question”, relating to such things as correct adjustment of Head Restraint, minimum tyre tread depth etc.
The ” show me” question will be asked on the move and is no doubt included to test the pupil’s ability to multi task, which of course driving is all about.
The practical driving test will last for around 40 minutes, and will include a number different types of roads, including Dual Carriageways if available.
Candidates will be asked to perform one reversing manoeuvre of the examiners choosing:
- bay park, either driving in and reversing out, or reversing in and driving out
- reverse parallel park on the left hand side of the road
- pull up on the right ( controversial), reverse around two car lengths, then re-join traffic.
One in three candidates will have to carry out a controlled stop (emergency stop).
In addition, as part of the Driving Test there is an element of “Independent Driving”, which represents half of the time allocated to each test and lasts for around 20 minutes. 4 out of 5 candidates will be expected to safely follow instructions given by a Sat Nav device.
Those that are not asked to follow directions given by a Sat Nav, will be asked to ” follow the signs to” as in the pre 4th Dec 2017 Driving Test.
D.V.SA. Driving Test Examiners are looking for a candidate that can control the vehicle and co-operate with other road users safely.
On return to the test centre, the DVSA examiner will inform a candidate if they you have passed or failed. They will also give feedback on the drive.
15 or fewer minor driving faults, evenly spread, then a test pass will be recorded.
More than 15 minor, or too many minor faults in one area, then a fail will be recorded. A serious or dangerous fault results in an automatic Driving Test fail.
