Practical Driving Test

Preparing for your practical driving test

Your instructor will guide you through the key areas that the examiner will assess, including your strengths and areas for improvement. Success on the test isn’t just about performing specific manoeuvres but about showing an ability to observe, understand, and respond competently to different road situations.

We recommend that you have at least 47 hours of tuition driving lessons and if possible, 22 hours of private lessons. However, everyone is different and therefore you may need more hours to prepare and build confidence. Your instructor will be able to advise you on whether you are ready and when to book your test.

Mock practical tests

Taking a mock test is not compulsory but it is something RED highly recommends. Mock tests help you experience the real test environment and allow you to practice driving independently under observation. This can be useful to help fight the nerves before taking your driving test!

An extended mock test allows for all the driving manoeuvres and emergency stops to be practised, even if this will not happen in the real practical driving test.

How to book practical driving test online

So you feel you’re ready for your practical test – how exciting! Just like your theory test, you can book your practical driving test online via the GOV website.

To book a practical driving test, you’ll need:

A valid Great Britain or Northern Ireland provisional driving licence number
Credit or debit card details to pay for the test
Your theory test pass date and certificate number
Your driving instructor’s personal reference number – to make sure they are available.

RED recommends booking your test direct with the DVSA. Please be aware of other sellers offering inflated prices or promising to help you jump the queue.

Book your driving test

Book your driving test

The day of the practical test

On the day of your test, your instructor will pick you up around an hour before the test for a ‘warm-up’ drive, giving you time to settle any last-minute nerves and ask any questions. You have the option of your instructor sitting in the back of the vehicle for the duration of the test but this is optional.

Documents to bring:

Your provisional licence
A copy of your theory test pass certificate
Booking details of the test

Your practical driving test will include:

An eyesight check where you are asked to read out a number plate int he distance.
The ‘show me, tell me’ test you are required to answer some basic questions about the car and how to check certain areas.
Manoeuvres/emergency stop
The actual driving, which lasts about 40 minutes.

Book your driving test

Book your driving test

At the end of your practical driving test:

At the end of the test, the examiner will inform you if you have passed or failed the driving test. The examiner will produce a test report and describe any errors you made and if applicable, why you failed your test.

In a driving test, faults are categorised as minor, major, and sometimes “serious” or “dangerous” errors. These help the examiner assess the driver’s ability to drive safely and responsibly.

Minor faults – small errors that, while incorrect, don’t immediately endanger the driver, passengers, or other road users. For example, failing to check mirrors before signalling or hesitation at a stop. Examiners will often allow several minor faults, however, if you accumulate more than 15 minors this will result in a failed test.
Major faults, also known as serious or dangerous faults, are errors that demonstrate a lack of control, poor decision-making, or unsafe practices that could pose a danger to the driver, passengers, or others. These are considered more critical and can lead to immediate failure. For example, failing to stop which results in another driver adjusting their speed or path or driving at an unsafe speed.

If you have passed, you will receive a test pass certificate that will entitle you to drive immediately. However, your instructor will usually drive you back home afterwards.

Good luck from everyone at RED with your practical test!

FAQs

How do I book my practical driving test?

You can book your test online through the official GOV.UK website. Make sure to have your provisional licence number, theory test pass certificate, and payment details ready.

How much is a driving test

A car driving test cost £62. The cost of a driving test doesn't include the cost of using a car. If you plan to use your instructor's car, you'll need to factor in the cost of their time for the test, plus it is advised to have a 30-60 minutes lesson before your test to get you warmed up and ask any last minute questions.

What should I bring on the day of the test?

Bring your provisional driving licence, your theory test pass certificate, and booking confirmation. If you’re using your own car, ensure it meets the GOV.UK test vehicle requirements.

How long are practical driving tests?

The test generally lasts 40 minutes and includes a 10-minute independent driving section.

Can I drive immediately after passing the test?

Yes! Once you pass, you’ll receive a pass certificate, which legally allows you to drive. However, it may take a few weeks for your full licence to arrive by mail.