The Driving Test
The driving test is constantly being updated to cope with today's busy roads, so if you have relatives or friends telling you what they had to do to pass their test, listen to your driving instructor!
When I passed my test back in 1970, we were required to stop at every junction, apply the handbrake and put the car in the neutral gear. I once had a pupil who went out with her elderly friend practicing and came back doing just that. Why people pay me for my expertise and knowledge, then listen to someone else instead is beyond me.
If you do this today, you will fail. The idea is to be ready to go, to keep the traffic moving so long as it is safe.
The Theory Test
The driving test today consists of two parts, the Theory test, which is a computerised examination held at several offices throughout the country. You will be required to answer 50 questions, all with multiple choice answers, as well as a couple of case studies.
The Hazard Perception Test, which follows directly on from the theory test, is all about spotting potential hazards as they occur. It is a sort of video game, where you are behind the wheel and clicking your mouse when you see something that could be a hazard.
There is usually only one hazard that they are specifically looking for, sometimes two, but you need to identify everything you believe to be a hazard. However, if you think you can just keep clicking and eventually get some right, think again. Continual clicking will get you disqualified!
The Practical Driving Test
The practical driving test lasts for approximately 40 minutes during which time you will be given directions and will cover a number of different road conditions. Do not make the mistake of thinking the examiner will not use a certain junction or road because it is dangerous or complicated. That may have been the case once, but not any more. If as a learner driver you can legally drive there, you could well be taken there.
Ten minutes of the test will be taken up with independent driving. This part will consist of being shown a diagram with three or four different directions to remember. You might also be asked to follow road signs to a certain place.
This part has been designed to see how you check your mirrors and signal without waiting for the examiner's cue. Like any other part of the test, should you forget where you are going, ask. He does not mind repeating himself.
You are allowed 15 minor faults on your driving test but no more and no major or serious faults. Minor faults are driving faults, i.e. forgetting to look in your mirror, providin your don't miss anything, signalling too early or too late as long as it doesn't cause confusion. However, if you get too many minors in the same box, it will turn into a major fault.
Beware of Scams!
There have recently appeared on the internet many sites who will book your driving test for you. You do get a test booking, but you will be charged sometimes in the region of £20. Unfortunately these sites are not illegal and cannot be stopped. It is up to you to be sure you are the the official Driving Standards Agency website.
Your theory test should cost £31
Your practical test should cost £62 unless it is an out of hours test, such as a Saturday morning. In this case there is an additional fee of £13.
If it costs any more than that, you are in the wrong place.
