How Long Does a Driver’s Test Take?

The road to obtaining a driver’s license is a significant milestone in many people’s lives. It represents newfound freedom, independence, and a heightened level of responsibility. However, before you can hit the open road with confidence, you’ll need to pass the all-important driving test. One of the most common questions that prospective drivers ask is, “How long does a driver’s test take?” In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of the driving test, from what happens during the examination to the duration of each component.

Imagine the moment you step into the driver’s seat, the examiner sitting beside you, and the anticipation building as you prepare to demonstrate your driving skills. To provide you with a complete understanding of what lies ahead, we’ll explore the five essential parts of the driving test that every aspiring driver must navigate:

1. Eyesight Check: Before you even start the engine, your ability to see is put to the test. We’ll discuss the specific requirements and consequences of failing this critical assessment.
2. ‘Show Me, Tell Me’ Questions: These vehicle safety questions assess your knowledge of essential car maintenance tasks. We’ll outline when these questions are asked and what they entail.
3. General Driving Ability: The core of the test, this section evaluates your driving skills in various road and traffic conditions. You’ll receive directions from the examiner, and we’ll explain what you can expect during this part of the test.
4. Reversing Your Vehicle: Whether it’s parallel parking or reversing into a parking bay, this segment assesses your ability to handle your vehicle in tight spots. We’ll cover the types of maneuvers you might encounter.
5. Independent Driving: Modern driving tests include independent driving, where you’ll follow either a sat nav or traffic signs. We’ll provide insights into how this portion of the test works.

This guide will not only reveal the components of the driving test but also answer your burning questions. How long does the test last? What happens if you make a mistake? Are there special considerations for an extended driving test? These are just a few of the topics we will explore in detail.

So, if you’re gearing up to take the driving test or are simply curious about the process, continue reading. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of what to expect, how to prepare, and, most importantly, how long a driver’s test takes. Let’s embark on this journey together, where every mile is a step closer to that coveted driver’s license.

When you’re gearing up for your driver’s test, it’s essential to understand what you’ll go through during this crucial evaluation of your driving skills. The driving test comprises five distinct parts, each designed to assess various aspects of your ability to operate a vehicle safely and confidently.

1. Eyesight Check:

Before you even get behind the wheel, the examiner will conduct an eyesight check. Your vision is a fundamental requirement for safe driving. During this test, you’ll be asked to read a number plate from a specific distance. The distance varies depending on whether the vehicle has a new-style or old-style number plate. Failing this test means the end of your driving test.

2. ‘Show Me, Tell Me’ Questions:

These vehicle safety questions, known as ‘show me, tell me’ questions, are designed to assess your knowledge of basic vehicle maintenance and safety. The examiner will ask you two questions: one ‘tell me’ question at the start of your test, before you begin driving, and one ‘show me’ question while you’re driving. These questions evaluate your familiarity with essential car functions.

3. General Driving Ability:

The core part of the test involves assessing your general driving ability. You’ll be taken through various road and traffic conditions, excluding motorways. The examiner will provide directions that you must follow, testing your ability to handle diverse driving scenarios. It’s worth noting that driving test routes are not published, so you cannot review them in advance.

4. Reversing Your Vehicle:

Reversing exercises are a crucial part of the test. The examiner will ask you to perform one of the following exercises:

• Parallel park at the side of the road
• Park in a parking bay (either by driving in and reversing out or reversing in and driving out)
• Pull up on the right-hand side of the road, reverse for around two car lengths, and rejoin the traffic

In addition, you might be asked to carry out an emergency stop. These exercises evaluate your vehicle control skills and your ability to maneuver safely.

5. Independent Driving:

During this segment, you’ll be required to drive for approximately 20 minutes by following either:

• Directions from a sat nav
• Traffic signs

The examiner will specify which method you should use. If you follow sat nav directions, they will set it up for you; you cannot use your own. If traffic signs are the chosen method, you’ll need to navigate based on the road signs you encounter. If visibility is compromised, the examiner will provide directions until you can see the next sign.

Throughout the test, your examiner will assess your driving skills and make notes of any errors. It’s important to remember that making a mistake doesn’t necessarily mean failure, as not all errors are considered serious. Your test will only be stopped if the examiner deems your driving to be a danger to other road users.

In the following chapters, we’ll delve deeper into each part of the test, helping you understand what to expect and how to prepare effectively. Understanding the components of the driving test is the first step toward achieving success and obtaining your driver’s license.

The duration of your driving test can vary depending on several factors. In this chapter, we’ll delve into the typical length of a driving test and explore any circumstances that might make it longer or shorter.

3.1 Typical Duration The standard duration for a driving test is approximately 40 minutes. During this time, you’ll be assessed on various aspects of your driving skills, including your ability to handle different road and traffic conditions, execute maneuvers, and follow the examiner’s instructions. It’s important to note that this duration applies to the regular driving test for individuals who have not been previously banned from driving.

3.2 Extended Driving Test If you’ve been disqualified from driving and are required to take an extended driving test, the duration will be longer. An extended driving test typically lasts around 70 minutes. This longer duration is intended to thoroughly evaluate your ability to drive safely and responsibly after a disqualification.

3.3 Before You Start to Drive Before you even start driving, there are a few administrative tasks that will add to the overall duration of your test. These include arriving at the test center about 10 minutes early, having your provisional license checked, confirming your insurance, and verifying that you meet the citizenship requirements for a UK driving license. These tasks collectively take about 2-3 minutes.

Additionally, the eyesight test, where you must read a number plate from a specified distance, will take a few seconds if you pass on the first attempt. However, if you fail, it may take a bit longer, as the examiner will need to measure the distance for you. This process can add a couple of minutes, and the total time to get to the car can vary depending on the test center.

3.4 ‘Tell Me’ Car Safety Question Once you’re inside the car, you’ll be asked a ‘tell me’ car safety question before you start driving. This typically takes about 2 minutes. The examiner will inquire about a safety-related task, and you’ll need to provide a verbal response or demonstrate the action, depending on the question.

To recap, before you begin the actual driving portion, you’ll have arrived about 10 minutes early, spent approximately 6 minutes on administrative tasks and the eyesight check, and another 2 minutes on the ‘tell me’ car safety question.

3.5 The Driving Phase The driving phase of the test is the most substantial part, lasting around 40 minutes. During this time, you’ll be evaluated on various aspects of your driving, including your ability to navigate different road conditions, follow instructions, and handle potential hazards. This phase also includes a period of independent driving, where you’ll follow either the directions from a sat nav or traffic signs, as instructed by the examiner.

3.6 Practical Test Feedback After the driving phase, you’ll return to the test center, and the examiner will provide feedback. This typically takes 3-4 minutes, during which the examiner will go over the mark sheet, explain any faults, and offer advice for improvement.

3.7 Conclusion In summary, the practical driving test lasts approximately 40 minutes for a standard test and around 70 minutes for an extended test. This duration includes administrative tasks, the eyesight check, ‘tell me’ car safety questions, the driving phase, and feedback. Knowing the expected duration of the test can help you prepare and manage your time effectively on the day of your driving test.

The eyesight check is a crucial part of the driving test and ensures that you have adequate vision for safe driving. This section of the test assesses your ability to read a number plate from a specified distance. Here’s what you need to know:

Checking Your Vision

During the eyesight check, you will be asked to read a number plate from a certain distance. The exact distance varies depending on whether the vehicle has a new-style or an old-style number plate:

• For vehicles with a new-style number plate, you must read the number plate from a distance of 20 meters.
• For vehicles with an old-style number plate, the required distance is 20.5 meters.

New-style number plates typically start with two letters followed by two numbers, such as “AB51 ABC.”

What Happens if You Fail the Eyesight Check?

Failing the eyesight check is a serious matter, and it will result in the termination of your driving test. The test will end immediately if you:

• Fail to read the number plate from the required distance.
• Require more than three attempts to read the number plate.
• If the examiner suspects that you cannot meet the legal eyesight standards for driving.

It’s important to note that driving without adequate vision is illegal and dangerous, so ensuring your vision meets the necessary standards is crucial before attempting the driving test.

Using Corrective Eyewear

If you wear corrective eyewear, such as glasses or contact lenses, to meet the eyesight requirements, you must wear them during the eyesight check and throughout the entire driving test. Failing to wear your corrective eyewear when required can result in a test failure.

The eyesight check is a relatively short but vital part of the driving test, typically taking just a few seconds if you pass on your first attempt. However, the time to complete this check may vary slightly based on your testing location.

Having clear vision is essential for safe driving, and ensuring your eyesight meets the required standards is one of the initial steps toward completing your driving test. So, make sure your corrective eyewear, if needed, is in good condition and ready for the test to avoid any unnecessary complications during this critical phase of the examination.

As you prepare to embark on your driving test journey, it’s crucial to acquaint yourself with the ‘show me, tell me’ questions – a segment that assesses your understanding of basic vehicle safety and maintenance. This section of the test is designed to ensure that you possess the fundamental knowledge necessary for safe driving.

‘Tell Me’ Car Safety Question: The first of these questions, the ‘tell me’ question, occurs at the beginning of your test, before you hit the road. Your examiner will inquire about a specific safety aspect of your vehicle. For example, they might ask, “Tell me how you would check that your brakes are working before starting a journey.”

Your response should be clear and concise, demonstrating your awareness of safety procedures. The ‘tell me’ question typically takes around 2 minutes to complete. It’s not a make-or-break moment for your test, but a wrong answer will be noted as a minor fault on your report sheet. Don’t let this faze you; it’s simply a reminder to brush up on your car safety knowledge.

‘Show Me’ Car Safety Question: The ‘show me’ question, on the other hand, arises while you’re driving. At some point during the test, your examiner will ask you to demonstrate how to perform a specific safety task. For instance, they might request, “Show me how you would wash the windscreen.”

Your ability to execute the task safely and correctly will be observed. Like the ‘tell me’ question, this typically takes about 2 minutes.

Combined, the ‘show me, tell me’ questions offer a snapshot of your understanding of vehicle safety, emphasizing your capacity to both explain and demonstrate essential safety procedures. While they contribute to your overall assessment, a minor fault here won’t necessarily fail.

By thoroughly preparing for these questions, you’ll not only boost your confidence but also ensure that you start your driving test on the right foot, armed with the knowledge needed to keep yourself and others safe on the road. So, remember to review these questions before your test day, as they are an integral part of your journey toward becoming a licensed driver.

Your general driving ability is a crucial part of the driving test, evaluating your capability to navigate various road and traffic conditions safely and efficiently. During this section, the examiner will provide you with directions that you must follow. It’s important to note that driving test routes are not disclosed to test-takers beforehand, so you won’t be able to prepare for specific roads or locations.

Here’s what you can expect during the assessment of your general driving ability:

1. Diverse Road Conditions: You’ll encounter different types of roads, such as residential streets, main roads, and possibly rural routes. The goal is to evaluate how well you adapt to various driving environments.
2. Obeying Traffic Rules: Throughout this portion of the test, you must adhere to all traffic rules and regulations. This includes obeying speed limits, stopping at stop signs, and following road markings.
3. Safety and Observation Skills: The examiner will closely observe your ability to identify potential hazards and take appropriate actions. This includes checking mirrors, and blind spots, and maintaining a safe following distance.
4. Responding to Instructions: As the examiner provides directions, it’s crucial to follow them accurately and promptly. Failure to do so may result in penalties.
5. Handling Junctions: You will encounter a variety of junctions, including roundabouts and crossroads. The examiner will assess your ability to approach and navigate these junctions safely, including lane selection and signaling.
6. Maintaining Control: Consistently maintaining control of the vehicle, including steering, braking, and acceleration, is essential. The examiner will look for smooth and controlled driving.
7. Adjusting to Road Conditions: You should be able to adjust your driving to accommodate changing road conditions, such as wet or icy surfaces.
8. Traffic Interactions: During the test, you’ll encounter other road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles. Demonstrating awareness and courtesy toward these road users is crucial.
9. Use of Signals: Properly using turn signals and other indicators is essential to communicate your intentions to other road users.
10. Navigation Skills: If you’re directed to follow traffic signs, it’s important to recognize and follow them correctly.

The general driving ability section typically constitutes a significant portion of the overall test duration. During this time, the examiner will assess your driving skills, your ability to respond to various situations, and your overall level of safety on the road.

Remember that while mistakes can happen, minor errors may not necessarily fail. The examiner’s primary concern is your overall safety and competency as a driver. However, if your driving poses a significant danger to other road users, the examiner may stop the test.

Stay focused, follow instructions, and drive confidently to demonstrate your general driving ability effectively during the test.

Reversing your vehicle is a crucial aspect of the driving test, and it assesses your ability to maneuver your vehicle safely in tight spaces. During this part of the test, the examiner will ask you to perform one of the following exercises:

1. Parallel Park at the Side of the Road: You’ll be required to park your vehicle parallel to the curb. This demonstrates your skill in maneuvering the car into a confined space, which is a common task in everyday driving.
2. Park in a Parking Bay: This exercise may involve either driving into a parking bay and then reversing out or reversing into a parking bay and then driving out. The examiner will specify which method to use. It evaluates your ability to control the vehicle accurately in parking situations.
3. Pull Up on the Right-Hand Side of the Road: In this exercise, you’ll need to pull over to the right-hand side of the road, reverse for approximately 2 car lengths, and then rejoin the traffic flow. This assesses your ability to perform a controlled maneuver on the road’s shoulder.

The examiner will provide clear instructions, and it’s essential to follow them precisely. Remember to use your mirrors effectively, check your blind spots, and signal appropriately during these maneuvers. Additionally, if asked, you might need to demonstrate an emergency stop, so be prepared for this possibility.

Reversing exercises can be challenging, but practicing these maneuvers with your instructor beforehand can help build your confidence. Keep calm, use your observation skills, and make smooth, controlled movements to succeed in this part of the driving test.

By mastering the art of reversing your vehicle, you’ll not only pass your driving test but also gain a valuable skill that will serve you well in real-world driving situations.

Independent driving is a crucial part of the driving test designed to assess your ability to make decisions and navigate without constant guidance from the examiner. During this segment, you’ll need to drive for approximately 20 minutes while following directions, either from a satellite navigation (sat nav) system provided by the examiner or by relying on traffic signs.

Here’s what you should expect during the independent driving portion:

1. Directions: The examiner will inform you whether you should follow directions from the sat nav or rely on road signs. If you’re using a sat nav, they will set it up for you. It’s important to note that you cannot use your own sat nav; you must use the one provided.
2. Following Instructions: Your task is to follow the given instructions accurately. If you’re using a sat nav, it will display the route and provide voice instructions. If road signs are your guide, you’ll need to carefully observe and respond to them.
3. Adjustments: If, for any reason, you cannot see a traffic sign (e.g., it’s obstructed by trees), the examiner will provide directions until you can see the next one. This ensures fairness in the test.

Remember that the examiner is not testing your memory but your ability to drive safely and make appropriate decisions. If you miss a direction or forget an instruction, don’t panic. You can ask the examiner to repeat it, and it won’t necessarily fail unless it poses a safety risk.

The independent driving segment assesses your navigation skills and your ability to stay calm and composed while making decisions on the road. Keep your focus, follow the directions, and drive safely to demonstrate your competence during this part of the test.

The driving test can be a nerve-wracking experience, and it’s not uncommon for even the most skilled drivers to make a mistake or two. However, it’s essential to understand how to handle these mistakes during the test, as they may or may not impact your final result.

You Can Carry On

The good news is that you can carry on with your test even if you make a mistake. Making a minor error does not necessarily mean you will fail the test. The severity of the mistake and its impact on road safety are the key factors considered by the examiner.

Minor vs. Serious Faults

During the test, the examiner will mark any faults you commit as either minor or serious. Minor faults are less severe errors that don’t pose an immediate danger to yourself or others. These might include things like stalling the engine briefly, not checking your mirrors before signaling or hesitating at a junction.

Serious faults, on the other hand, are more significant errors that could potentially endanger yourself, the examiner, other road users, or property. Examples of serious faults include running a red light, failing to give way when required, or exceeding the speed limit by a substantial margin.

How Mistakes Affect Your Test Result

If you accumulate too many minor faults, they can add up and result in a failed test. However, a single serious fault can also lead to an immediate failure. It’s important to note that the total number of faults matters less than their severity.

Keep Your Focus

Even if you realize you’ve made a mistake during the test, it’s crucial to stay focused and composed. Dwelling on the error can distract you from the rest of the test and potentially lead to more mistakes. Remember that the examiner is assessing your overall driving ability, and a minor error here and there may not be a deal-breaker.

When the Test Is Stopped

Your driving examiner will only stop the test if they believe your driving poses a significant danger to other road users. If you commit multiple serious faults or a single extremely dangerous action, the examiner may decide to terminate the test. In such cases, they will explain the reason for stopping and guide you back to the test center.

Learning from Mistakes

While it’s natural to feel disappointed if you make mistakes during your driving test, it’s essential to view them as learning opportunities. If you don’t pass the first time, use the feedback provided by the examiner to identify areas that need improvement. With practice and continued learning, you can increase your chances of passing the test on your next attempt.

In conclusion, making mistakes during a driving test is common, and not all mistakes will lead to failure. Stay focused, learn from your errors, and remember that the goal is to demonstrate your overall driving ability. Handling mistakes calmly and professionally is an important skill for any driver, and it can serve you well throughout your driving career.

For some individuals, a standard driving test is just the beginning of their journey toward becoming a responsible driver. Various factors, such as traffic violations or more serious offenses like driving under the influence, may lead to a requirement for an extended driving test.

So, you may be wondering, how long does an extended driving test take?

An extended driving test typically lasts around 70 minutes for the driving part. This extended duration is designed to thoroughly assess your ability to drive safely and responsibly. The test consists of a variety of elements, similar to the standard test, but it may be more comprehensive to ensure that you have truly improved your driving skills.

Let’s break down the components of an extended driving test:

1. The Driving Part (Approximately 70 Minutes): During this phase, you’ll be evaluated on various aspects of your driving, just like in the standard test. This includes your ability to handle different road and traffic conditions while demonstrating responsible and safe driving practices. Expect to face challenges like navigating junctions, performing maneuvers, and responding to traffic signs.

2. Preliminary Section: Before you begin the actual driving part, you’ll go through some preliminary procedures, such as identity verification and confirming that you meet the eligibility requirements for a UK driving license. This section typically takes a few minutes.

3. Examiner’s Feedback: After completing the driving part, you’ll return to the test center. Here, the examiner will go through your performance, explaining any faults you received and tallying them up. Whether you pass or fail, you’ll receive valuable feedback that can help you improve your driving skills. This feedback session typically takes around 20 minutes.

If you’ve planned your test day wisely, you’ll have arrived at the test center about 10 minutes early. When you add up all these components, you can expect an extended driving test to take approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes in total.

This extended duration is meant to ensure that you have the necessary skills and competence to drive safely, especially if your previous driving history has raised concerns. So, if you find yourself facing an extended driving test, take it as an opportunity to demonstrate your commitment to responsible and safe driving.

If you find yourself in a situation where you need to take an extended driving test, you might be wondering how it differs from the standard driving test and, of course, how long it will take. An extended driving test is typically required when you’ve been banned from driving due to serious offenses, such as driving with excess alcohol in your system. Here, we’ll break down the duration of the extended driving test and what you can expect.

The Extended Driving Test Duration:

The extended driving test is notably longer than the standard driving test. While the standard test usually takes around 40 minutes, the extended test will require approximately 70 minutes of your time. This extended duration is necessary to ensure that you can demonstrate a high level of competence and safety on the road, given the circumstances that led to the need for an extended test.

What to Expect During the Extended Test:

1. Driving Skills Assessment: Like the standard test, the extended test assesses your driving skills. You’ll need to showcase your ability to handle various road and traffic conditions while following the rules and regulations. The examiner will give you directions throughout the test.
2. Maneuvers: You’ll still be required to perform maneuvers such as parallel parking, parking in a parking bay, and possibly a hill start. These maneuvers assess your control over the vehicle and your understanding of safe parking techniques.
3. Independent Driving: Similar to the standard test, you’ll have to demonstrate independent driving skills, following either directions from a sat nav or traffic signs. The examiner will set up the sat nav for you, and you cannot use your device.
4. Safety Checks: As with the standard test, you’ll be asked the ‘show me, tell me’ vehicle safety questions. The ‘tell me’ question typically occurs before you start driving, while the ‘show me’ question happens while you’re driving. These questions evaluate your knowledge of basic vehicle safety procedures.

Arrival Time: Just like with the standard test, it’s a good idea to arrive at the test center approximately 10 minutes early. This allows time for administrative procedures and any last-minute checks.

In total, you should allocate around 70 minutes for the extended driving test, plus the additional time for arrival and the examiner’s feedback afterward. Remember that the extended test is designed to thoroughly assess your driving abilities and ensure you can safely return to the road after a disqualification.

While the extended driving test may feel more demanding due to its longer duration, thorough preparation and practice can help you feel confident and ready to demonstrate your driving skills under examination conditions.

When embarking on your journey to become a licensed driver, it’s not just the practical driving test you need to prepare for – the theory test is another essential milestone. Understanding how long this test takes is crucial for planning your day and managing your nerves.

The theory test is divided into two sections: multiple-choice questions and hazard perception clips. Let’s break down the timing for each of these components:

1. Multiple-Choice Questions: You’ll face a set of 57 multiple-choice questions that assess your knowledge of the rules of the road, traffic signs, and various driving scenarios. While you’re allotted a maximum of 50 minutes for this section, you may finish sooner if you’re well-prepared and confident in your answers.

2. Hazard Perception Clips: Following the multiple-choice questions, you’ll move on to the hazard perception part of the test. Here, you’ll watch 14 video clips that simulate driving scenarios. Your task is to identify potential hazards by clicking the mouse or touchscreen when you spot them. Each video clip typically lasts around one minute.

After completing the multiple-choice questions, you’re allowed a short break of approximately 3 minutes before beginning the hazard perception section. During this break, you can take a breather, collect your thoughts, and prepare for the next part of the test.

So, in total, you should plan for about 1 hour and 35 minutes for the entire theory test. This includes the time for both sections, the short break, and any administrative tasks involved.

However, if you have dyslexia or another condition that requires additional time for the multiple-choice questions, you might spend a little under 2 and a half hours at the test center. Be sure to check with the test center in advance if you’re eligible for extra time.

To ensure a smooth and stress-free experience, aim to arrive at the test center approximately 10 minutes early. This will allow you to sign in at reception, familiarize yourself with the testing environment, and complete a 15-minute practice session to settle your nerves.

Knowing the approximate duration of the theory test will help you plan your day effectively, giving you the confidence and peace of mind you need to pass this essential step on your road to becoming a licensed driver.

One of the common worries for those taking their driving test is the possibility of encountering heavy traffic during the examination. However, it’s essential to understand how traffic affects the duration of your driving test.

1. Traffic and Test Durations: While it’s true that traffic conditions can vary significantly depending on the time of day and location, the Driving and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has designed the driving test to accommodate such variations. When DVSA established the typical duration of the practical test, they observed tests under different traffic conditions to provide an accurate average. Thus, regardless of traffic, the driving portion of the test usually lasts about 40 minutes.
2. Examiner’s Adaptation: Examiners are well-versed in local road conditions, and they will adjust the route if necessary to ensure your safety and the fairness of the test. If heavy traffic is encountered, the examiner will typically guide you on an alternative route to avoid unnecessary delays.
3. Staying Calm: It’s natural to feel anxious if you encounter traffic during your test. However, it’s crucial to remain calm and composed. Your examiner understands that traffic is beyond your control, and it won’t negatively affect your test as long as you maintain safe and responsible driving behavior.
4. Focus on Your Skills: Instead of worrying about the impact of traffic on your test duration, concentrate on showcasing your driving skills. Ensure that you follow the rules of the road, maintain safe distances, and make appropriate decisions in traffic situations. Examiners are primarily assessing your ability to drive safely, not your ability to control traffic.
5. Rare Scenarios: While traffic is a common concern, there are some rare scenarios where your test might be affected differently. If you encounter an accident or feel too unwell to continue, the examiner may stop the test early. In such cases, the test duration will vary depending on the specific circumstances.

In conclusion, while traffic is a concern for many during their driving test, the DVSA and examiners are well-prepared to handle these situations. Focus on your driving skills and stay calm if you encounter traffic, as it’s unlikely to significantly impact the duration of your test. Remember that your safety and ability to drive responsibly are the primary criteria for assessment during the driving test.

In this chapter, we’ll address some frequently asked questions related to the driving test. We understand that taking the driving test can be a nerve-wracking experience, and having clear information can help ease your concerns.

If I fail, will my driving test be cut short?

• In most cases, if you fail a few seconds into the test, you will still carry on until the end. You might not even be aware of your failure until the test is over. Keep driving your best as you’ve paid for that time, and you can use it for practice and feedback.
• Exception: If you commit a dangerous fault involving a real danger to you, the examiner, the public, or property (e.g., causing an accident), your test will be immediately terminated, and you will fail.

How long is an extended driving test?

• An extended driving test is longer than the standard test, lasting about 70 minutes for the driving part.
• There’s also a preliminary section and examiner’s feedback, which takes around 20 minutes.
• Arrive at the test center 10 minutes early, so the total time spent is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

How long is the theory test?

• The theory test consists of 57 multiple-choice questions and 14 hazard perception clips.
• You have a maximum of 50 minutes for the multiple-choice questions, followed by a 3-minute break.
• The hazard perception part includes one-minute scenarios with a 10-second countdown before each clip.
• In total, you should expect to spend around 1 hour and 35 minutes at the test center for the theory test.
• If you’re dyslexic, you might be eligible for extra time (double), extending the test duration to under 2 and a half hours.

What are the different parts of the driving test?

The driving test consists of five parts: an eyesight check, ‘show me, tell me’ vehicle safety questions, general driving ability, reversing your vehicle, and independent driving.

How long does the typical driving test last?

The typical driving test lasts approximately 40 minutes.

Is the driving test duration the same for everyone?

No, the driving test duration may vary. An extended driving test, typically 70 minutes, is taken by those who have been banned from driving.

What happens during the eyesight check in the driving test?

During the eyesight check, you are required to read a number plate from a specified distance, which varies depending on the type of number plate.

What are the consequences of failing the eyesight check?

Failing the eyesight check results in an immediate failure of the driving test, and the test will end.

When are the ‘show me, tell me’ questions asked during the test?

You’ll be asked the ‘tell me’ question before you start driving and the ‘show me’ question while you’re driving.

How long does the general driving ability portion of the test last?

Answer: The general driving ability portion of the test lasts about 40 minutes.

Are driving test routes published, and can I check them beforehand?

No, driving test routes are not published, so you cannot check them before your test.

What maneuvers are assessed during the test, including reversing?

Maneuvers assessed during the test include parallel parking, parking in a parking bay, and pulling up and reversing for around 2 car lengths.

What is independent driving, and how long does it last?

Independent driving requires you to follow either directions from a sat nav or traffic signs for about 20 minutes.

Can I use my own sat nav during the independent driving portion?

No, you must use the sat nav provided by the examiner; you cannot use your own.

What should I do if I make mistakes during the driving test?

You can carry on if you make a mistake, as it might not affect your test result unless it’s a serious mistake.

Under what circumstances will the examiner stop the test?

The examiner will stop the test only if they think your driving poses a danger to other road users.

Is it common for a supervisor to sit in on the driving test?

A supervisor from the driving examiner’s office might sit in on your test to observe the examiner’s performance. Refusing this can lead to test cancellation.

Who can accompany me during the test, and what are the rules?

You can have a person over 16, usually, your driving instructor or a relative or friend, sit in the back during the test, but they cannot participate.

How long is the extended driving test, and why might I take it?

The extended driving test typically lasts about 70 minutes and is taken if you’ve been banned from driving due to serious offenses.

What’s the duration of the theory test, and what does it entail?

The theory test comprises 57 multiple-choice questions and 14 hazard perception clips, taking approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes.

Can individuals with dyslexia request extra time for the theory test?

Yes, individuals with dyslexia may be eligible to request double the time for the multiple-choice questions, resulting in a test duration of under 2.5 hours.

What happens if I get stuck in traffic during the driving test?

If you encounter traffic during the test, the examiner will adjust the route as needed, and your driving time will likely remain around 40 minutes.

How should I prepare for the driving test to ensure success?

To prepare successfully, practice your driving skills, review road rules, ensure your vehicle is in good condition, arrive early, and follow the examiner’s instructions attentively.

Now that you have answers to these common questions, you can approach your driving test with greater confidence and clarity about what to expect. Remember to prepare thoroughly and stay calm on the day of your test, and you’ll be one step closer to obtaining your driver’s license.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ve explored the ins and outs of the driving test, focusing on one key question: “How long does a driver’s test take?” Armed with this knowledge, you’re now well-prepared for your upcoming test, whether it’s your first attempt or you’re facing an extended driving test.

Remember, the typical driving test lasts approximately 40 minutes, during which you’ll be evaluated on various aspects of your driving skills, from handling the vehicle to following directions and demonstrating safety awareness. If you’ve been banned from driving and are taking an extended test, plan for around 70 minutes.

We’ve delved into the specifics of the test, including the eyesight check, ‘show me, tell me’ questions, general driving ability, reversing maneuvers, and independent driving. You’ve learned how to handle mistakes during the test and what to expect if you encounter traffic along the way.

Additionally, we’ve addressed common FAQs, ensuring you have a clear understanding of what to anticipate during the test and its potential outcomes.

As you approach your driving test, remember that preparation is key. Practice your skills, review the rules of the road, and ensure your vehicle is in good condition. Arrive at the test center early, stay calm, and follow the examiner’s instructions carefully.

Whether you pass with flying colors or face a few challenges, the driving test is an important step on your journey to becoming a safe and responsible driver. Stay confident, stay focused, and best of luck on your test day. You’ve got this!