Driving Test
It's a big day for most of us! I've put as much help and information here as I can. Oh, and a big "Thank You!" to all those ex-learners who we've had the pleasure of teaching.
Booking the test
Book your test online, or by phone (0300 200 1122), using a credit or debit card. Alternatively, get a postal application form from your driving instructor, or local driving test center. The fee is £56.50 at normal times, and £67.00 on weekday evenings and at weekends (from 01 April 2008).
Driving test centre locations
There are driving test centres in most large towns or cities. Basingstoke's is at:
Basingstoke Driving Test Centre, Brighton Hill Centre, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG22 4LR.
Here is a map.
If you're lost, ask for directions to Asda supermarket, at Brighton Hill, which is close to the test centre.
On the day
I usually meet candidates about an hour before their test - this gives us enough time to get "warmed up". We make sure we are in the area of the test centre in good time, and park at the test centre about five or ten minutes before the test.
The test itself lasts around 45 to 50 minutes, but you will be driving for as little as 35 minutes. The examiner will direct you along a variety of roads, and will ask you to do the following:
- read a number plate at 20.5 metres (67 feet)
- answer two "show me, tell me" questions (see below)
- pull up at a safe place on the left
- move off on a hill
- move off from behind a parked car
- do two reversing manoeuvres
- do a controlled (emergency) stop (maybe - one in three chance)
At the end the examiner will tell you the result, and give you the appropriate forms. Keep an eye out for your instructor, we do like to come over and listen to the de-brief.
Show me, tell me questions
Before you drive, you will be asked the "show me, tell me" questions. These are nothing to worry about, they are just checking your knowledge of basic safety checks.
Nerves
I always think it's quite healthy to be a little apprehensive of the test, it shows you are taking it seriously. Over the years, I have come across many different ways of battling test day worries. Although I have listed some of the less extreme ones, there is one way to make sure you feel confident - be ready! If you are well prepared, the test should go well.
Here are some ideas to help:
- get a good sleep the night before
- have a good breakfast or lunch
- eat two bananas an hour before the test
- take sips from a small bottle of water when you are parked on test
- Rescue Remedy
Back seat
Did you know that you can take your instructor (or friend or relative) with you on the test? This can be useful for those who suffer more than most from test day nerves. One other thing to bear in mind: occasionally, a senior examiner will sit in the back of a test - purely to check the standard of your examiner. This is a routine thing, and does not affect your test - or the result.