A Complete Guide On How To Book Your Practical Driving Test

Obtaining a full driver's licence is a key milestone for new drivers wanting to gain freedom on the road. More than simply a plastic card, a driver's licence represents independence, access to personal transportation, and the ability to traverse roadways safely. If you are currently learning to drive, passing both the practical and theoretical examinations is required to drive legally in the UK. During lessons, your instructor will prepare you for the practical exam by covering the necessary material and teaching you the manoeuvres you'll need to become a safe driver. In this blog, we will look at how to arrange your practical driving test in the UK providing clear, precise, and practical insights to assist you in passing your practical test.

What Is a Practical Driving Test?

A practical driving test, implemented by a DVSA official, is a thorough evaluation of your driving ability on public roads. Whether you're driving a manual or automatic car, the test remains the same. During the test, a DVSA examiner will assess your adherence to traffic regulations as well as your ability to perform certain driving manoeuvres. The practical driving exam is designed to ensure that you can drive your car safely in real-world settings, proving your knowledge of traffic regulations and ability to manage a variety of driving situations. This exam will assess your ability to operate your car safely while following to traffic laws.

During the test, you will also be assessed on different skills such as:

1. Starting and Stopping the Vehicle: You will have to start the vehicle properly, pull away smoothly and stop safely.
2. Traffic Awareness: You will have to observe the traffic signs and signals and respond accurately to other drivers and pedestrians.
3. Manoeuvres: You will have to perform specific manoeuvres like parallel parking, performing a three-point turn as well as reversing around a corner.
4. Lane Discipline: You will have to follow the correct lane while driving and make lane switches when necessary. The safe merging into a different lane is also an important aspect of the test.
5. Speed Control: Driving following the speed limit and adjusting your speed according to the conditions on the road you are on will also be a factor.
6. Use of Controls: The proper understanding and use of vehicle controls is important for you to clear the test.
7. Safety Checks: This is the first thing you should do before you start driving, Check if the mirrors are in place. Ensure that you and your co-passenger are wearing seatbelts and check for blind spots while on the road.

After finishing the test, you will be given a pass or fail grade. Passing indicates that you have proven the necessary abilities to drive safely and independently, and then you will be allowed to drive independently.

When Can I Book My Practical Driving Test?

To book your practical driving test, you should be at least 17 years of age. Also, you should have passed your theory and hazard perception tests beforehand. Another requirement, if you are booking your practical driving test in the UK, then you should have been living in England, Wales, or Scotland for at least 6 months in the last 12 months before your practical driving test.

How to Book Practical Driving Test

Booking your practical driving test in the UK can be done in two ways including online and via a telephone booking. Each option is simple, allowing you to just schedule your test session. Below are a few detailed steps for each type.

1. Booking a Practical Driving Test Online

Booking your practical driving test online with DVSA is quick and straightforward. You may do it from home at any time that is convenient for you. But before you start the process, you must keep in hand the following details to book practical driving test online:

• UK Provisional licence number
• Theory test pass number
• Debit or Credit Card
• Test Centre Location
• Valid Email Address

Once you are ready with above details, just follow the below mentioned steps to book an online driving test:

• Visit the Official Website: Start the process by visiting the official GOV website and click the ‘Start now’ button. This will take you to the booking process right from the start.
• Enter Your Details: In the second step, select which test you are booking and provide the details mentioned including your provisional driving licence number and theory test pass number.
• Select Your Date: After you provide the details, you will have to choose the date you would like to take your driver's practical test. In this step, you can also add the reference number of your instructor to make sure it does not conflict with your driving instructor’s timetable.
• Choose Your Test Centre: The fourth step is to select the nearest DVSA practical test centre where you want to undertake your test. As mentioned, choose your convenient date and time from the given slot.
• Confirm Your Booking: After you select your slot, now you will need to provide your payment information to secure the reservation. Once the payment is confirmed, you will receive a reference number through an email sent to you from DVSA.

Note: Follow the above-mentioned steps, if you want to rebook your test because you didn’t pass or had to cancel your test.

2. Booking Practical Driving Test Through by Telephone

Booking your practical driving test over the phone is another simple and convenient option! Just follow these simple instructions.

• Dial the Number: This process starts by calling the DVSA's booking service on 0300 200 1122.
• Know the Hours: The phone booking service is available only from Monday to Friday between 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Keep Your Information Ready: Be ready with your information including your provisional licence number and the payment option.
• Choose Your Testing Centre: Confirm the driving test location where you want to take your test.
• Choose a Date and Time: Choose the preferred day and time from the slots available.
• Confirmation: After booking, the DVSA will send you confirmation via email.

Tips To Book a Driving Test Date When There Is Limited Availability

Why Are There No Driving Test Available? The DVSA allows you to schedule a car test up to 24 weeks in advance. If you can't discover any open test dates in the next 24 weeks, consider scheduling your practical driving test at a different test facility that may have greater availability.

If you're struggling to arrange a practical driving test due to limited availability, consider the following these strategies:

• Consider booking at a different test centre with more vacancies throughout DVSA's 24-week booking period.
• Use a driving test cancellation service to keep track of available dates and book an early appointment at your preferred centre.
• Manage your appointment responsibly by modifying or cancelling at least three working days before the test date to avoid fines.

Being proactive and researching these options increases your chances of finding a test date that works for you.

How Much Is the Practical Driving Test?

The cost of a practical driving test for car drivers in the United Kingdom varies depending on the time of the test. The practical driving test price on a weekday is £62. If you choose to schedule your exam for the weekend, evening, or bank holiday, the fee increases to £75.

You can schedule your driving test up to 24 weeks in advance, allowing you to select from several types of specific sessions. Considering these factors can help you make an informed choice, whether you need a flexible evening or weekend booking or want to save money by booking during the week.

How Long Is a Practical Driving Test?

The practical driving test in the UK normally lasts between 40 and 70 minutes, however, this might vary based on a range of factors including the test location, traffic conditions, and specific manoeuvres. It is recommended to make calm, well-considered judgements during the exam and respond correctly to traffic circumstances and risks.

If your test lasts more than 70 minutes, the examiner will let you know ahead. After passing the exam, some drivers choose to take the Pass Plus course, which consists of six additional hours of driving to improve their abilities. Understanding the time and criteria of the test might help you prepare and approach it with confidence.

What To Bring to Your Driving Test?

Remember to bring the following things for your practical driving test. Ensure you have the right documents and items with you on the day of your driving test to avoid any hiccups.

• Your Driving Licence: A valid driving licence is a must-have for your driving test. Ensure it's up to date before you get it.
• Theory Test Pass Certificate (if applicable): If you've passed your theory test, remember to bring along the passing certificate as proof.
• Your Vehicle: Most people use their driving instructor's car, but you can also get your own if the car meets the necessary rules and regulations.

Important Notes:

• If the candidate does not provide the required documents, the test will be cancelled and there will not be a refund.
• If you lose your driving licence, apply for a replacement which would later take up to 15 days.
• In case you do not have a photocard licence, it's fine to bring your valid passport and paper licence.
• Do not panic if you lose your Theory Test Certificate.

How To Change My Practical Driving Test Date?

Changing practical driving test booking is easy and convenient with DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standard Agency) service. Whether you want to find an earlier date or need to change the driving practical test date due to unforeseen situations, here is what you need to know:

Using the DVSA Service:

One way you can make modifications to a car practical test appointment is by using the DVSA service. This includes:

• Find an earlier driving test, which is also known as cancellation appointment.
• Moving to a Later Date: Change your current appointment to the next date when it is convenient for you.
• Change the test centre where you want to take your drivers' practical test.

Note:

Of course, any changes in the current plan must be informed at least 3 full business days in advance, or else you will have to pay extra charges. This means, Monday to Saturday is referred to as a weekday, while Sunday and any public holidays are not.

Can I Get a Refund If I Cancel My Practical Test Booking?

Yes, you can get a refund if you cancel your practical test booking and below is a detailed explanation.

How to Request a Refund:

In case you need your practical test cancelled, you must write to the DVSA with an email subject line, “Unavoidable Short Notice Cancellation” and include any proof as to why your appointment needs to be changed. You can attach the following as proof: a letter from a school or college, crime number from the police or a medical certificate from a GP.

Refunds:

You may be eligible for a refund under certain circumstances, such as:

• Illness or injury
• Bereavement
• Concurrency examination at a school or college
• Driving license theft

How To Pass a Practical Driving Test?

Passing the practical driving test in the UK can be challenging, but preparation is key. It's crucial to familiarize yourself with the local test routes to reduce surprises and boost confidence. Practicing essential manoeuvres, such as regular practice, knowing your vehicle well, noticing road signs and speed limits, etc.., are vital since they are core components of the test.

For an in-depth look at these tips and more, read our full blog on Tips on how to Pass your driving test. This comprehensive guide covers everything from preparation strategies to what to expect on the day of the test, ensuring you go in feeling confident and ready to succeed.

FAQs - Practical Driving Test Questions

1. Can I use my own car for the DVSA practical driving test?

Yes, you can take your own car for the DVSA practical driving test. The only thing is that your car must meet some specific requirements including roadworthy, properly insured, taxed, and displaying L-plates if you're a learner and a valid MOT certificate.

2. What happens if I lose my provisional licence before taking my driving test?

If you lose your provisional licence before your driving test, you must request for a replacement with the Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency (DVLA). You may do this online or by mail, but there is generally a price associated.

3. Can I cancel my practical test booking?

Yes, you can cancel your practical test appointment. However, you must provide at least three working days' notice to prevent losing your test cost.

4. How many times can you fail your practical driving test in the UK?

In the United Kingdom, there is no restriction on the number of times you may fail your driving test. However, you must wait at least ten working days before retaking the exam. Accumulating a particular number of mistakes or incurring any severe faults during the practical driving exam will fail.

5. How often are driving tests released?

Practical driving tests are released by the DVSA every Monday, for 5 months in advance.

6. How do I get my driving test ASAP in the UK?

The actual time that you must wait for the driving test is 6 months, but you can cut the time to weeks or months by picking up a cancellation or by fast-tracking your test.

7. How many minutes is the practical driving test?

The practical driving test can take at least 40 minutes, as it includes eyesight check, and safety questions

Conclusion

Passing your practical driving test is a huge milestone that leads to significant achievement and independence on the road. It represents not just your skill to manoeuvre traffic safely, but also your dedication to appropriate driving practices. As you prepare for your test, remember to be confident, practise consistently, and prioritise safety above all else. Ensuring that your car is in safe condition and satisfies the standards is critical for a smooth testing experience, allowing you to focus on showing your driving abilities without hassles.

Before taking your car for the practical driving test, it must be in excellent condition. This is where having a car warranty can be beneficial. Maintaining your car's safety and dependability is crucial, especially when preparing for a practical driving test. A comprehensive car warranty from Warranty Direct can provide coverage for unexpected mechanical and electrical failures, as well as roadside assistance. With a car warranty, you can drive confidently, knowing that you are protected from costly repairs.

It is extremely important to remember that your car must be in safe working condition and meet all the requirements for the driving test. By ensuring your vehicle is well-maintained and backed by a reliable warranty, you can focus on passing your test and enjoying the independence that comes with it.